Junior Counselor-in-Training (JCIT) Program – Entering grade 9

In the Junior Counselor-in-Training Leadership Program, our newest group of teens will build leadership skills, learn the ins-and-outs of camp programming, and experience weekly camp activities with more freedom than ever!

JCITs will be a part of an immersive, interactive program, where they will be given a platform to develop and grow with the help of staff, specialists, and our leadership team through new experiences, creating their favorite all-camp programs they experienced as campers, and special training with our experienced staff!

Program Fee

Junior Counselors-in-Training must apply and go through interviews before registering for the program. There are 5 spots available each session. Once accepted into the program, there is a nominal fee per session, to cover the costs of training, staff supervision, program supplies, field trips, and special activities. All JCITs must go through the application process, pay for registration if hired, and complete any paperwork requested to secure spots. For more information on the application process, email campwise@wisela.org.

Expectations

Teens in the Junior Counselor-in-Training Program will be treated as volunteers, and may earn opportunities to engage in special programs/activities based on performance (i.e. Field Trips, special events, snacks).

Though they will not be directly overseeing campers, they will be working with our Specialists weekly to create and implement group and camp-wide programming, assist campers under direct supervision of Specialists and our Leadership Team, and attend daily meetings. JCITs must adhere to our staff policies, dress code, expected hours, and meet any other expectations and requirements. JCITs are expected to represent our core values in and out of camp. For more information on the expectations of JCITs, email campwise@wisela.org.

*All programs subject to change.

Program

The JCIT Program at Camp Wise consists of the following:

• Pre-summer training with the Camp Wise Staff

• Working with Specialists and Co-Specialists to create, lead, and implement programs

• Specialties they may be assigned to include: Art, Science & Cooking, Sports, Israeli Games, Music, Water Play, Social Media

• Learning administrative, organizational, and time-management skills via helping office and administrative team with tasks

• Assisting with daily Hot Lunch organization and distribution

• Daily meetings and check-ins with the LIT Coordinator & Specialists

• Opportunities to showcase special talents and strengths with other campers or staff

• Working with the CITs to create and implement programs such as the Carnivals, Maccabia (Color Wars), Theme Days, and Morning Circle

• Opportunities to engage in 1-2 weekly camp activities such as: Swimming in our onsite pool, yoga, special events, and field trips

• ... and other surprises!

*Weekly programming and opportunities subject to change.

Counselor In Training (CIT) – Entering Grades 10/11

In the Counselor-in-Training Leadership Program, teens entering Grades 10 or 11 deepen their leadership skills, strengthen teamwork and communication, and learn how to lead programs for campers in groups across K-6 grade.

CITs participate in an immersive, hands-on experience where they work directly with camper groups for the full camp day, supporting their Head Counselor and Co-Counselor while taking on increasing responsibility in group management, activity leadership, relationship building, and camper care. Through mentorship from counselors, specialists, and the Camp Wise leadership team, CITs gain real-world experience in leadership, professionalism, and youth development.

Program Compensation

There is no fee to participate in the Counselor-in-Training Program. CITs serve as volunteers and are rewarded for their commitment through community service hours, leadership development, and professional skill-building. Exceptional CITs may be considered for paid staff positions in future summers.

Expectations

CITs are expected to take on a leadership-focused role and model appropriate behavior for campers at all times. While working under the supervision of counselors and camp leadership, CITs will actively assist with daily camper routines, lead activities, and support group management.

CITs must adhere to all staff policies, dress code, expected hours, and program requirements, and are expected to represent Camp Wise’s core values both in and out of camp. CITs will participate in daily check-ins and ongoing feedback to support growth and development.

Program

The CIT Program at Camp Wise includes:

• Pre-summer training with Camp Wise leadership

• Supporting Head Counselors and Co-Counselors with a consistent camper group (rising K–6) throughout the day

• Assisting in planning and leading age-appropriate activities and informal educational programs

• Helping maintain a safe, positive, and engaging camp environment

• Participating in daily meetings, feedback sessions, and leadership development opportunities

• Collaborating with staff to help implement camp-wide programs such as Carnivals, Maccabiah (Color Wars), Theme Days, and Morning Circle

• Developing professional skills including communication, responsibility, teamwork, and time management

Exceptional returning 11th-grade CITs may be considered for Co-Counselor positions.

*Weekly responsibilities and programming subject to change.