1. Milwaukee Art Museum Summer Art Camps
Every year, MAM brings students ages 6-15 to its galleries to explore art and creativity. This year, the museum is offering multiple classes all summer long on subjects including photography, Scandinavian design, painting, clay, narrative art and comics, and mixed media. The classes combine art appreciation and education with hands-on creation. In the painting class, for example, students will explore the work of masters displayed in the museum and then practice creating their own watercolor, tempera and acrylic works. Registration is open now.
2. Kettle Moraine Summer Academy
Open to kindergarten through eighth-grade students from anywhere in the state, Kettle Moraine School District’s Summer Academy offers academic, art, enrichment and athletic courses. Some of the most popular classes include Amazing Animals, Dinosaur Adventures, Pom Pizzazz, Fishing, Net Sports, Wearable Art, Complete Fitness and the annual theater workshop. Classes are held at Wales Elementary and Kettle Moraine High School. Registration opens March 20.
3. Red Arrow Camp
Boys age 8-16 leave their phones behind for this seven-week camp in the Northwoods. From June 21-Aug. 9, the internet-free boys fill their days with sports, woodworking, sailing, biking, archery and more outdoor activities. This camp is all about building strong character in young men. Through a summer of wilderness treks and exploration, the boys learn teamwork and resilience. Registration is open now.
4. UW-Milwaukee’s College for Kids & Teens Programs
Over 2,000 students come to the UWM campus each year to take advantage of the university’s summer learning opportunities. The college offers dozens of classes covering creative arts, humanities and social sciences, math and computer applications, science, and languages and cultures. Classes are open to kids from kindergarten through 12th grade. Registration is open now.
5. First Stage Summer Academy
Milwaukee’s acclaimed children’s theater hosts classes for kids from kindergarten through 12th grade every summer. Kindergartners and first-graders can take the Story Drama class, where they’ll learn the basics of acting, from developing their voice to using their imagination. High school students can enroll in the company to work with theater professionals for four weeks of learning and performing. Many other classes of variable lengths are available for every grade level. Registration opens in March.
6. Brewers Baseball Academy
For over 10 years, the Milwaukee Brewers have been hosting one of the coolest camps in the city. Boys and girls ages 6-14 of all skill levels can sign up to learn hitting, throwing and fielding from experienced coaches. And most exciting of all, the students get to spend a day at American Family Field, where they’ll meet a Brewers player. Registration opens in February.
Shepherds College
For students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Shepherds College offers a unique opportunity to learn and achieve independence. The largest post-secondary school of its kind in the nation, Shepherds College provides students with an education in three disciplines: culinary arts, horticulture and technology. It also teaches life and social skills. Students take three years of classes on the residential Union Grove campus, and in their final year are placed in jobs related to their chosen field of study. Over 80% of graduates from Shepherds College are now employed.
