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Summer learning and work experience: Dream Academy and Camp SWEAT expand opportunities for Columbia County youth
Summary
On County Compass, Tika Jenkins outlines two flagship programs—Dream Academy for elementary students and Camp SWEAT (summer work experience) for teens—highlighting county partnerships that provide apprenticeships and hands-on learning.
Tika Jenkins told County Manager Scott Johnson that Columbia County Community Connections runs two long-standing summer programs serving elementary and high-school students. “Our elementary students, those are Dream Academy,” Jenkins said, and she added that the high-school program, Camp SWEAT, is a “summer work experience” that places teens in apprenticeship-type roles at local work sites.
Jenkins said the county has hosted apprenticeships in departments such as water and animal services. “The county has been a great partner,” she said, describing how placements give students on-the-job exposure and skill-building. Jenkins added that Dream Academy also integrates educational supports: children receive targeted instruction and may get some acceleration or remediation while attending the program.
The episode described how Dream Academy once operated out of Harlem Library and that staff and longtime volunteers, including educator Betty Kelly, sustain program continuity. Jenkins noted that activities such as the Dream Academy restaurant offer practical experience and fundraising opportunities that benefit program participants.
