Benchmark Camp isn’t just about keeping kids busy — it’s about helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Mary Katherine Montgomery, Lower School math teacher and Director of Summer Programming, describes their program designed for rising 1st through 6th graders. It blends learning, play, and skill-building in a safe, supportive environment.

A Summer That Builds More Than Skills

At Benchmark, camp is for everyone. Whether a child attends the full day, half day, or the language arts-only program, every camper participates in engaging classroom experiences. “Our camp experience is the best of both worlds. It enhances children’s academic skills while also engaging in a day camp experience,” says Mary Katherine.

The camp philosophy mirrors Benchmark’s approach during the school year: teaching students how to learn, not just what to learn. Small-group language arts instruction and hands-on activities in the Innovation Lab engage and challenge children to think critically, collaborate, and experiment.

Academic and Recreational Balance

Campers spend mornings in individualized language arts sessions, with groups of 8–9 students led by 2–3 teachers. Screening assessments ensure each child is placed at the right instructional level, so they can grow with support. Mary Katherine emphasizes that the program isn’t about closing academic gaps in five weeks. Rather, it’s about creating a toolkit to carry into the school year.

In the afternoons, campers enjoy recreation, from art and robotics to playground games, ropes courses, and the Confidence Course zipline. “Kids who may struggle academically gain confidence tackling new physical challenges,” she explains. “It’s incredible to watch them realize they can do things they didn’t think possible both in recreation and in the classroom.”

Executive Function and Lifelong Skills

Benchmark Camp also focuses on executive functioning — skills like organization, planning, and task initiation. Campers learn to manage belongings, follow checklists, and navigate their day independently. “We teach kids to advocate for themselves,” says Mary Katherine. “They leave with strategies they can use long after camp ends.”

Who Thrives at Benchmark

The program is especially beneficial for children with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences. However, it also supports students who simply need a confidence boost or structured summer enrichment. Families come from across the country — and even internationally — because of the program’s reputation for personalized attention, structured learning, and joyful experiences.

Success Stories

Mary Katherine shares the story of a camper who arrived hesitant to leave the car on the first day, only to find friends and a supportive environment. By the end of camp, she fully engaged herself in both academics and recreation. Parents consistently remark on the transformation: children return home more confident, organized, and ready for the next school year.

Program Details

Benchmark Camp offers full-day and half-day programs, with flexible drop-off starting at 7:30 a.m. and extended care until 6 p.m. Campers can add optional 1:1 math tutoring for additional academic support. All campers participate in a structured water safety program at the pool, with certified lifeguards and counselor supervision.

Registration is open and continues through late June, with payment plans available. Families can tour the campus or meet the team at local camp fairs.

“Benchmark gives kids a place to grow, explore, and succeed,” says Mary Katherine. “We create brave spaces where children gain confidence, independence, and the skills to thrive academically and socially.”

Families are invited on Saturday, March 7 to explore the five-week summer camp. Enjoy the playground, try robotics and arts & crafts, and speak with staff during guided tours from 9:00–10:00 am or 11:00 am–12:00 pm.

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Photos courtesy of Benchmark Camp, as seen in the Summer Camp Guide. 

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