The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians Summer Camp was a full-day program that immersed students in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) learning. The camp was open to students ages 7-14, and it ran for four weeks in July and August. Groups of students had mentors through the San Pasqual Teen Diversion Program. 

The camp was divided into two parts: academic enrichment and STEM activities. The academic enrichment portion of the camp focused on reading and math. Students worked on their reading comprehension and vocabulary skills, and they learned about different math concepts, such as fractions, decimals, and geometry.

The STEM activities were designed to teach students about robotics, computer science, and engineering. Students learned how to code virtual robots using CoderZ, and they used Codey Rocky robotics kits to plan a mission to Mars. They also learned about simple machines and how they work.

Each Friday, the camp took a field trip to a STEM-related location. Students visited the USS Midway Museum, the Fleet Science Center, and the San Diego Air & Space Museum. They also had an industry day with Northrup Grumman, the Navy, and Porpoise Robotics.

Programs focused on unique attributes found in their communities and cultures. For instance, the San Pasqual Indian students focused on traditional uses of water in their tribe. They then compared and contrasted this with water uses and programs from the San Diego County Water Authority.

The camp concluded with a capstone event where students showed their parents what they had learned. They also received certificates of award from UCSD Division of Extended Studies and earned college credit. This was a great opportunity for students to see themselves outside of the reservation and to learn about the possibilities that are available to them.

The camp was funded by Level UP Grants and Extended Learning Grants through the San Diego Foundation. The camp also partnered with the Logan Heights CDC and the Classroom of the Future Foundations (CFF).

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians Summer Camp was a great opportunity for students to learn about STEM and to explore their cultural heritage. The camp was well-organized and the staff were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I would highly recommend this camp to anyone who is looking for a fun and educational summer experience.

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