We continue to look forward to the arrival of boys on July 11th. As the beginning of camp approaches, improvements in COVID statistics are allowing us to take a further look at the guidelines we have set in place for this summer. We will continue to screen all campers and drivers who arrive at camp by personal vehicle and we will continue to be closed to outside visitors during the summer. All of the policies and procedures described below and described on our website in the "Camp Updates" section will remain in effect, including packing of face masks for campers. One area that will change for 2021 is that we will meet the following flights between BWI and Albany, New York for vaccinated boys 12 and older: SWA Flt 6701 on Sunday 7/11, 7/18 and 7/25 departing BWI at 1:10 pm arriving at Albany at 2:25 pm. We can meet a different flight from a different destination on those dates if it is not after 2:25 pm. Please contact me to discuss. We will also take vaccinated boys to Albany for departing SWA flight 4467, leaving Albany at 1:10 pm for arrival at BWI at 2:30pm on 7/25 and 8/1. On 8/7 we will take vaccinated boys to BWI to meet flight 3400 departing Albany at 12:45 for BWI arrival at 2:05 pm. I hope this helps some families. While there will be some older boys on these flights, we are not planning on providing camp chaperones. Arrangements should be made to accompany your child to the departure gate. Parents may acquire a non passenger escort badge using their child's confirmation number. Please be aware reservations for unaccompanied minors (boys younger than 18) should be made over the telephone instead of on line. In all cases, you must let me know if your son is going to be traveling to or from Albany by air, so we can have an accurate count for transportation purposes. I must have a ticket well in advance for all boys departing Albany Please contact me for any further information.
I will let you know who will be meeting flights in Albany in advance of departure. So far, I can confirm that Maria Weiss will be the camp representative meeting the July 11th flight in Albany. A junior Counselor, Reed Nester will be on that flight from BWI.
The information that follows this section is the same as was sent to current parents last week.
Some General Guidelines
Drop offs on July 11th, 18th and 25th should take place after 9:00 am and will last throughout the day; preferably ending before 6:30 pm. We will screen and take temperatures of all vehicle occupants upon arrival. Non vaccinated campers must present a very recent negative covid 19 test at drop off to be in compliance with Camp Wachusett and VT guidelines. You may source your own PCR test or utilize the suggested Vault health test (see below). Vaccinated boys must show their proof of vaccination card. We will have a supply of rapid test kits for periodic testing and access to PCR testing if anyone is symptomatic during the course of the summer.
Pick ups on 7/25, 8/1 and 8/7 should take place between 9:00am and noon. Please contact me if your situation falls outside of that timeframe. It is becoming more likely that we will host a final dinner and awards ceremony where parents can be present on August 6th. I will provide more information through weekly newsletters once camp begins.
Cell phones are not permitted, but if you want to send one along, we can hold onto it for safekeeping until departure. We do encourage boys to write letters home and require it at least weekly, so please provide stamped envelopes and associated supplies.
We ask that you not call your boys for the first week. If you would like to call after that, mealtimes are best: Breakfast 8:30 - 9:00, Lunch 1:30 - 2:15, Dinner 6:30 - 7:15. The number is: (802) 273-2880. If you would like to reach me, those are also good times, but I will generally be available at that number or will call you back asap if you leave a message.
A Reminder About Health, 2021 Waiver, and Photo Release Forms
Please remember to download and return your health, 2021 Waiver, and photo release forms as soon as possible. We know it's time consuming, but it is very important to have the health forms carefully filled out. Please mail them to us in VT or email to director@campwachusett.com
You can download the forms on our website at the Summer 2021 Forms Page.
Packing Reminders
Laundry will go out weekly. It is very important to write your camper's name on his articles of clothing. Check out the packing list on our website. For 2021 please include a minimum of four cloth face-masks. Two or more may be bandannas. Please do not pack sanitary wipes of any kind. We will provide all disinfectants and cleaners. Wipes somehow find their way into septic systems and will wreak havoc in our waste water systems (even if labeled flushable.) If you would like to send along alcohol based hand sanitizer, feel free, but we will have plenty on hand.
While we will most likely refrain from going on day trips off the property to populated areas due to the continued threat of COVID, we are planning to take hiking and canoeing trips this summer. The recommended camping gear is encouraged, but not necessary. One exception is we do require hiking boots with ankle support. Please do not pack any knives or sharp instruments. Hygiene is very important, please pack shampoo and soap for showering.
Once again, we pledge to provide a safe and fun environment this year for boys to build friendships, learn new skills, and enjoy the outdoors. If you visit our website later this week you will find a new video of clips from last summer. We are looking forward to seeing everyone next month!! Unaliyi, Phil