F.A.Q.
For Potential Families - Registration and Enrollment
Visit summeratstjohns.org and follow the links to CampBrain, our online registration system. You’ll create an account, select programs, and complete forms online.
Parents can add programming on CampBrain but cancellations and changes must be made in writing to summer@stjohnsprep.org.
Yes. A non-refundable deposit is required per session. The amount varies by program. Refunds (excluding the deposit) are available according to our cancellation policy, which is outlined at registration.
Yes. During checkout, you may opt into a monthly payment plan at no additional cost.
We offer limited financial assistance. To inquire, email summer@stjohnsprep.org.
No. Our programs are designed for full-week participation, Monday to Friday. Exceptions are made for Week 1 due to the Juneteenth holiday.
Yes. If a program fills, you can join a waitlist through CampBrain. You will be contacted if a spot opens.
For Potential Families - Camp Structure and Programs
Visit summeratstjohns.org and follow the links to CampBrain, our online registration system. You’ll create an account, select programs, and complete forms online.
Parents can add programming on CampBrain but cancellations and changes must be made in writing to summer@stjohnsprep.org.
Yes. A non-refundable deposit is required per session. The amount varies by program. Refunds (excluding the deposit) are available according to our cancellation policy, which is outlined at registration.
Yes. During checkout, you may opt into a monthly payment plan at no additional cost.
We offer limited financial assistance. To inquire, email summer@stjohnsprep.org.
For Potential Families - Daily Logistics
- Camp runs Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:45 PM.
- Drop-off is 8:50–9:10 AM.
- Pick-up begins at 3:45 PM.
- Drop-off: 8:55–9:10 AM
- Pick-up: 3:50–4:10 PM
Yes! Early Drop Off starts at 8:00 AM, and Late Pick Up extends the day to 5:00 PM.
Please call the camp office. Late pickups may be charged a fee if recurring.
YES! We currently operate 5 buses serving Melrose, Reading, Wakefield, Lynnfield, Lynn, Swampscott, Marblehead, Salem, Newburyport, Rowley, Topsfield, Lawrence, North Andover, and Middleton. These buses are operated by Salter Transportation. For more information please call or email us.
Campers bring their own nut-free lunch and snack. We provide a daily bagged lunch only if a camper forgets food; families will be billed accordingly. We also have a lunch option that can be purchased as an add-on to your registration.
For Potential Families - Staff & Supervision
Most programs maintain a 1:5–1:8 ratio, adjusted for camper age and program type.
Yes. All staff undergo CORI/SORI background checks and a CHRI fingerprint check. All employees must attend mandatory training on safety, child development, and emergency procedures.
Yes. We have a 5-6 person medical team on site each day, with at least two licensed nurses on campus full-time during normal camp hours. Campers’ health forms are reviewed before arrival.
We focus on positive reinforcement and redirection. If serious issues arise, we communicate directly with families to create a plan.
For Potential Families - Activities & Scheduling
Camp days include a mix of structured activities, free play, swim (or water games), lunch, and team time. Schedules vary slightly by program.
Campers in Chipmunks and Lower Camp all have a daily swim lesson as well as a free swim period. Campers in Middle Camp and Trailblazers can purchase a swim lesson package, if desired. All other campers visit the pool once daily. Frequency may vary for Exploration and DayTrippers programs.
Yes. Swim lessons are included for Camp Chris Chipmunks and Lower Camp and optional add-ons for Camp Chris Middle Camp and Eagles Sports Camp Trailblazers.
We try to honor one friend request for each of our younger campers (entering third grade and below). Use the "Friend Request" section during registration. Requests must be mutual and in the same camp group.
We operate rain or shine. Indoor facilities are used when needed. Schedules shift to keep the day safe and engaging.
For Potential Families - Health & Saftey
Campers must stay home if they have a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or any contagious illness. We follow current public health guidance.
They’ll be taken to the nurse, and you’ll be called for pickup if needed. We may require a note to return, depending on symptoms.
Medications must be dropped off with the Division Lead who runs your child’s Drop Off. All medications must be in original packaging. A doctor’s note and administration plan are required.
We are a nut-free camp and train all staff in allergy protocols. Please provide an updated allergy action plan if needed.
For Potential Families - Communication
You can call the camp office at (978) 774-1427 or email summer@stjohnsprep.org.
Yes! We are launching a new app run through MyCampApp - all camp updates, photos, schedules and more will be available to all families on this app. It is free to download and we highly recommend all caregivers use it!
We maintain a Lost & Found at our Main Office located in Memorial Gym. Labeling all items helps ensure return.
We follow detailed emergency protocols and conduct drills during training. In the event of a real emergency, families are contacted directly.
For Potential Staff
- Applicants must...
- Have valid working papers if under 18
- Have completed or signed up for First Aid and CPR training by June 1, 2026 if applying to be a Senior Counselor.
- Provide current immunization records.
- Provide a physical dated within the past 18 months.
- Provide a current medical history including allergies, required medications, and any health conditions or impairments which may affect the individuals activities while at work.
- Complete state-certified fingerprinting.
- Complete a CORI/SORI check.
- Provide three references - new employees only.
- Employees must be minimum 16 years of age as of June 1, 2026
- Summer at St. John’s is committed to building a diverse and inclusive campus community and welcome applications from underrepresented groups. We seek applicants who demonstrate a commitment to multiculturalism and diversity that is manifested in practice, camper engagement, interpersonal communication, and programming decisions. Summer at St. John’s is an equal opportunity employer.
- We ask that all employees commit to a minimum of six full weeks of work.
- Preference will be given to applicants who can work high-enrollment weeks.
- Work Day Hours:
- Clock in by 8:30
- Clock out at 4:15
- 30 minute unpaid break to be held on campus.
- Weekly staffing decision made based on enrollment numbers.
- Staff Trainings:
- June 8-11, 2026 from 4-7pm.
- June 13th, 2026 from 9am-3pm- last day of training for all staff and our Open House.
- June 15th, 2026 - starts at 8am. Setup and Senior Counselor Training
- Cell Phones - some leadership staff will need access to a smartphone to access attendance files, upload photos, and maintain communication with camp administration.
- Camp Attire
- Staff are expected to wear...
- A staff shirt - two will be provided.
- Clothing consistent with the daily or weekly theme.
- Clothing is expected to be "Adventure Ready". For example...
- Close-toed shoes excluding Crocs.
- Shorts long and loose enough to move comfortably.
- Camp-friendly swimwear.
- Appropriate sun protection.
- Staff are expected to wear...
For new staff, applications will be available January 5, 2026. To view the 2026 Interview Questions and Rubric, follow this link.
For returning staff, please contact Jackson Tingle for more information.
CAMP STAFF
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We're currently planning for Summer 2026.
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