Best Summer Camps in Tampa

Camp Terrapin is a coeducational, sports and fine arts summer camp in Tampa for students entering grades 1-8. From the gym to the Smith Black Box Theater, the art room to the pool, and the Shimberg field to the virtual reality IDEA lab, your child will have an opportunity to experience a variety of activities while they embrace Tampa Prep’s mission to think, create, be themselves, aspire to excellence and go beyond in a positive, fun and safe environment.

Camp Terrapin runs from 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. daily

CAMP TERRAPIN
Week One: June 6 – June 10
Week Two: June 13 – June 17
Week Three: June 20 – June 24
Week Four: June 27 –  July 1
Mini-Week Five: July 5 – July 8
Week Six: July 11- July 15

Camp Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Before Care: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
After Care: 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

2022 RATES

• Camp Terrapin Weekly rate: $295
• Camp Terrapin Mini-Week rate: $235
• Camp Terrapin Half-Day: $155
  • Can only be registered in addition to another half-day course or camp
• Before Care: $50/week/camper
• Before Care Mini- Week: $40/camper
• After Care: $60/week/camper
• After Care Mini-Week: $50/camper
• Daily Drop-In Before/After Care: $15/day/camper 

2022 DISCOUNTS (Only applies to Camp Terrapin)
**Multi-Week: $10/week/camper
**Early Bird: $10/week/camper
(Registration and payment must be submitted by April 1, 2022 to receive the Early Bird incentive.)
**Only one discount per camper may be used

2022 LATE REGISTRATION FEES
Campers MUST be registered by 5:00 p.m. the THURSDAY PRIOR TO the start of the camp you have selected. There is a $25.00 late fee for campers who register after that time.

DAILY ACTIVITIES AT CAMP TERRAPIN
Tampa Preparatory School has two full-sized indoor, air-conditioned courts, two outdoor half courts, a soccer field, a baseball field and an eight-lane swimming pool and diving well. Camp Terrapin utilizes all of these state-of-the-art athletic venues as well as classrooms throughout the school. Campers should wear closed-toe shoes (sneakers) every day.

SPORTS

• Indoor sports activities and games–led by our counselors–are designed for the interest and age/skill level of our campers. Games include traditional favorites like capture the flag, basketball, tag, duck-duck-goose and more.
• Outdoor sports include games like court hockey, tennis-baseball, soccer, kickball, field games, flag football and more!

SWIMMING 

Campers must pass a swim test on the first day of camp. If a camper does not pass this test, they will be asked to either wear a lifejacket or be restricted to certain areas of the pool. Three certified lifeguards are on duty at all times. No instruction is given during the swimming activity period. Campers should bring their bathing suit, towel and sunscreen every day.

VISUAL ARTS
Directed study of different art media (drawing, painting, printmaking, clay and 3D materials). and different themes for each camp session.

COMPUTERS: The computer labs at Tampa Preparatory School have upgraded Apple computers with a variety of educational, non-violent games installed just for campers. In addition, campers have access to “kid-friendly” websites for game play. The Internet is heavily filtered and monitored while the campers are using computers.

GAMES: Campers may choose from a variety of board games, card games, ping-pong, air hockey, arcade games and more. Kids enjoy oversized versions of games like KerPlunk and Jenga too.

SCIENCE: Innovative and interactive, our campers will have the opportunity to become involved in the engaging world of science through different themes each session.

SPECIAL ACTIVITIES
Theme days, special guests, dance time, field and swim events, movie and popcorn days and more! Counselors may offer campers an option of two different activities, but for the majority of the time, campers will stay with their group and participate in the planned activity. Campers may also be grouped by gender or age during specific activities. The master activity schedule may vary based on weather or other special activities.

Academic Listings

You do not need to be a Tampa Prep student to register.

Full credit courses are six weeks long and count as a full year’s course. Half credit courses are three weeks long and count as a semester credit. *All courses are taught at the Honors level. 

• Spanish I Review
• Spanish II Review
• Spanish III
• Algebra I Review
• Algebra II Review
• Geometry
• Pre-Calculus Review
• Physical Education & Health
• Ceramics (1st Semester Only)
• Civics (rising 11 & 12) (2nd Semester Only)

Students should have their iPads for class. Please review the Policies & Procedures before enrolling.

Semester 1: Monday, June 6–  Thursday, June 23
Semester 2: Friday, June 24 –  Friday, July 15
Times: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Semester 1 Credit Cost: $1,700
Semester 2 Credit Cost: $1,700
PE: $1,750 per semester (Cost of field trips or guest speakers included)
Students must register for both semesters to receive a full year’s credit.

SUMMER COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

FOREIGN LANGUAGE SUMMER COURSES

Spanish I Review

Prerequisite: Spanish I

This course is restricted to students who have already taken Spanish I and wish to become more proficient before moving on to Spanish II or earn a better grade by retaking the class. This course, focusing on developing the basic skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, integrates the study of grammar and vocabulary with aspects of the Hispanic culture. Students write compositions and present dialogues, which apply the grammar and vocabulary studied in each lesson.

Spanish II Review

Prerequisite: Spanish ll

In Spanish II there is daily integration of the four linguistic skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening, with an increased focus on grammar and practical, high-frequency vocabulary. There is also integration of the culture of the daily lives of Spanish speakers and coverage of the entire Spanish-speaking world. Students are presented with ample guided, focused opportunities to interact in Spanish with classmates and the instructor, with the goal of establishing a solid base for clear self-expression.

Spanish III

Prerequisite: Spanish II

Grammar and vocabulary are advanced and reinforced through in-class discussions and topics such as health and fitness, ecology, the economy, technology, religion, politics and art. There is an increased focus on speaking, formal writing, analytical reading and cultural awareness.

MATHEMATICS SUMMER COURSES

*It is recommended that students take both semesters to ensure that they have a solid foundation of the material.

Algebra I Review

Prerequisite: Algebra I

This course is restricted to students who have already taken Algebra I and wish to become more proficient in it or earn a better grade by retaking the class. Included is the study of numbers, rules of algebra, linear equations and inequalities, exponents, polynomials, proportions and functions.

Algebra II Review

Prerequisite: Algebra ll

The following topics are covered in the first half of the summer: solving linear equations and inequalities, solving systems of equations, factoring polynomials, exponent rules, graphing lines, and inequalities, finding the equation of a line. The second half includes the following topics: radical numbers, imaginary numbers, quadratic, polynomial, and rational functions, matrices, logarithms, and conic sections. The graphing calculator is used for some topics in the course.

Geometry

Prerequisite: Algebra I

First-half topics include deductive reasoning, line and angle relationships, triangles, and congruence. Emphasis is placed on vocabulary, logical thinking, and completeness of formal geometric proofs. Second-half topics include similarity, parallelograms, right triangles, circles, and planar and spatial measurement. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving skills in the considerable applications of geometric concepts and formulas for a wide variety of geometric figures.

Pre-Calculus Review

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

The first half of this course covers graph shifting and translations, combinations and compositions of functions, inverse functions, zeros, complex numbers, linear models, scatter plots, polynomials, rational functions, exponential functions, and logarithms. In the second half, trigonometry is stressed, including equations, identities, properties of multiple angles and the inverse trigonometric functions, laws of sines and cosines, DeMoivre’s Theorem and polar coordinates. Graphics utilities on the computer or calculator are incorporated into the course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION SUMMER COURSE

Physical Education and Health

Prerequisite: None

Designed for students who wish to fulfill the personal fitness and health component of their physical education requirement so that they can concentrate on academic electives in their ninth and tenth grade years. This course aims to encourage our students to pursue a healthy, physically active lifestyle. Traditional team sports and lifetime sports including badminton, team handball, floor hockey, indoor soccer and water polo make up the physical education component. The personal fitness/health semester will include reading assignments and quizzes, cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training as well as studies in all areas of health and nutrition.

ART SUMMER COURSE 

Ceramics

Prerequisite: None

Summer Ceramics provides an introduction to various methods of fabrication in clay. Students will be exposed to the history of clay by examining different cultures and eras. Handbuilding techniques such as pinch pot, coils, and slab are practiced. Surface design methods and glazing will also be covered. These processes will be explored through Technical Research Samples to create unique works of 3D art. 

HISTORY SUMMER COURSE

Civics

Prerequisite: Rising 11 & 12 grade

This summer course exposes students to the American federal government, the Bill of Rights, and a host of other political topics and issues related to American civic values. Through an emphasis on current events, students create and implement a political-action project. Classes are taught in a discussion-based environment. Students should leave this course as more knowledgeable citizens who possess a practical understanding of their rights, liberties, and responsibilities under the law.

SUMMER ACADEMIC COURSE POLICIES & PROCEDURES

ABSENCES and TARDIES

No student may be absent more than two days and still receive full credit for an academic course. No student may be absent more than one day and still receive half credit for an academic course. Tardy policy: Students will be allowed four tardies. Points will be deducted from their grade for each tardy after that. This includes when students return from class breaks.

AFTER HOURS – 

All parents are asked to pick up their children promptly during the summer session. Supervision is not provided and Tampa Prep cannot be responsible for students who are left unattended at the school.

MATERIALS

Students will need an iPad for academic courses. Necessary resource materials will be announced in each class and will be the responsibility of the student.

COURSE CREDIT

Written evaluations will be provided by each instructor for all class work and grades will be granted for all credit courses, provided the student fulfills the course requirements and expectations. Grades and course comments will be forwarded to you at the completion of each “semester.” Non-Tampa Prep students must make arrangements with their current schools if they wish to transfer credit. All non-Tampa Prep students must submit their most recent transcripts with the registration form.

DRESS CODE

Dress during the summer session is casual. Jeans, shorts and T-shirts are permitted, as long as they are presentable and in good taste. While it is summer, students need to remember that Tampa Preparatory School conducts business all summer long.

ENROLLMENT

All courses are subject to a minimum enrollment. Dates and times are subject to change. You will be notified of any change or cancellation to a course/camp to which your child is registered.

FOOD 

No food or drink other than water is allowed inside any of the buildings.

PAYMENT

Payment is due with your registration form. A place will not be held for your student until all paperwork has been received. Acceptable methods of payment include eCheck or credit card.

WITHDRAWAL

Parents who wish to withdraw a student from a course or camp after registration will be charged the credit card transaction fee. Withdrawls will be assessed a 20% withdrawal fee.

NO refunds will be given after June 1, 2022. Requests for tuition reimbursements should be directed to the Director of Summer Programs, Mychael Sumby at msumby@tampaprep.org or by calling 813-251-8481.

ENRICHMENT

SUMMER ENRICHMENT DESCRIPTIONS

Chess (Rising 1st – 8th)

This enrichment camp is divided between learning and playing. Whether your child is a beginner, intermediate or advanced player, this chess camp is the place to learn and develop new strategies and advance existing skills while having fun!

Gearing up for 6th Grade (Rising 6th grade)

This study skills course better prepares students to face academic challenges of their new school and lowers their anxiety and dread of tests and examinations while making learning easier and more enjoyable. Specifically students learn: to make outlines for purposes of review, to take and organize adequate and appropriate notes, to prepare for tests in a non-stressful and productive manner. This course also helps students understand their summer reading in a structured environment with close supervision.

Preparing for 6th Grade Mathematics (Rising 6th grade)

This hands-on approach to math provides rising 6th grade students with an introduction to 6th grade math using tangrams, word problems, manipulatives, and cooperative games. The students will improve their understanding of geometry, fractions, probability, estimation, decimals and problem solving. Daily fact drills, games and small group-directed instruction will increase students’ proficiency in whole number operations as well.

Reading, Grammar & Writing (Rising 7th & 8th)

This course focuses on learning grammar and writing mechanics and working through the required summer reading. Students are challenged to recognize and correct spelling, punctuation, sentence structure and other grammatical errors in short humorous stories. In addition, creative writing helps strengthen writing skills and allows for both self editing and peer editing, as well as teaching students how to recognize and correct errors in their own writing.

Preparing for Algebra I (Rising 8th and 9th)

In this class, students learn mathematics vocabulary essential for their success in higher-level courses. Topics in this course include solving equations and inequalities, rational numbers, graphing, statistics, probability, linear equations and polynomials. The curriculum is adjusted to meet individual needs. The course incorporates the TI Graphing Calculator (TI-83). Students learn the functions of the calculator and how to use them to solve pre-algebra problems.

Preparing for Pre- Algebra (Rising 6th & 7th)

This class begins with a brief review of percent applications and equivalency (fraction, decimal and percent.) The class concentrates on the following: computation with integers, graphing, ordered pairs, evaluating expressions and solving simple equations.

Introduction to Freshman English (Rising 9th)

This is a course in basic literary analysis. Using current summer reading lists, students practice analyzing plot, device and theme. Mastery of these skills is essential for success in English I. Students engage in reader response, formal writing and formal discussion. Students practice appropriate annotation skills in conjunction with close reading.

College Essay Workshop (Tampa Prep Seniors ONLY)

Hello Tampa Prep rising seniors and family members!

To help ensure that your college essay reflects your best work and – more importantly – to minimize your stress this fall, all seniors will be asked to submit a full draft of their primary essay to your college counselor during First Week. To help you achieve this goal, this summer our fabulous English Department will be offering college essay workshops with no fee attached. The workshops will be four days long and run from 8:30am until 1pm with a 30 minute break. By the end of the session, students will have a completed draft and will get feedback from their teacher for every step of the process. This is a tremendous opportunity to get ahead and get motivated to complete your college essay in plenty of time for First Week.

As mentioned, there is no fee for these workshops, but you do need to register before May 13th. These workshops will fill up quickly and space will be limited, so please register as soon as you know your summer plans. Students will not be able to choose what session they are placed in for Workshop 1.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to Ms. Cardillo should you have any questions. scardillo@tampaprep.org 

To register please reach out to Mrs. Schretzman cschretzman@tampaprep.org 

Make sure to leave the students full name and which workshop you would like to attend in the email.

We look forward to working with your students as they begin their journey in the college essay process. 

ROBOTICS & PROGRAMMING

Robotics Courses offer children of all ages techniques from basic building skills to advanced programming.

ROBOTICS COURSES

Basic Engineering I & II Combo (Ages: 8 yrs and up) 

Basic Engineering I & II Combo class explores simple machines and adds the concept of motorization. Students will then take their knowledge of simple machines and expand into compound machines. Topics covered include structure and forces, levers, wheel and axles, pulley systems, steering systems, center of gravity, etc.

Introduction to Robotics using EV3  (Ages: 9 yrs and up) 

This is the final core class that introduces students to robotics. Basic programming will be taught, and challenges will involve getting the robotics to accomplish missions by navigating correctly and engineering the appropriate manipulator to accomplish the tasks. Topics covered include programming, light sensor, touch sensor, wheeled and tracked robots, basis robot building with NXT, etc.

VEX IQ (for only 7th grade and up)

This is a programming camp using VEX IQ robots. Students will be learning how to program and move the robots around and through this learn how to program in “C” language. After they are comfortable with programming, they will be using the robots to solve exciting missions like mazes and line following missions. The final day is reserved for playing a competitive “game” using VEX robots and remote controls.

Arduino and C Programming (for only 7th grade and up)

This camp is all about building circuits and learning how to control those electronics with C Programming.  We will have a lot of projects with LED lights and buzzers and twist knobs.  We will also build an Arduino-controlled robot and make it move around.   This camp is for someone who likes to tinker.  You will leave with a notebook on how to get started on this great hobby.  We will also have a project involving a laser cutter to make a box.

The Bricks Shop LEGO® Brick-Tacular Theme Mashup Camp!

The Bricks Shop is back with your favorite and UPDATED camp of the summer! Our LEGO® Brick-tacular Theme Mashup Camp!

But this summer, we have added a whole bunch of new themes to the mix! We of course will have our classics like MINECRAFT, STAR WARS, Superheroes, Harry Potter, and Pokémon, but we have added some new themes like Beyblades, Fortnite, Roblox, The Mandalorian, Super Mario Bros, and much more!

Campers will experience a different LEGO® theme each day. Your Master Builder will have a chance to create motorized robotic models, 3D color brick builds, LEGO® mosaic art, and learn different design and building techniques using LEGO® bricks! Have fun building LEGO® spinners from Beyblades, Batman’s Batwing, Minecraft Creepers, or a Fortnite Break-dancer one day, then conjure up magical potions with the wizards at Hogwarts the next! Can’t decide which you like more? Join us for this super fun LEGO® Camp and try them all! 

The Bricks Shop LEGO®  Star Wars! 

With the release of a whole new galaxy of movies and shows on Disney +, we have expanded the exploration into the Star Wars universe with our BRAND NEW STAR WARS camp!

 A Long Long Time Ago in a Galaxy Far Far Away, The Jedis, Empire, and Mandalorians were all in a battle to reign supreme! And in this classic summer camp, your child will learn the way of The Force by making all of the classic STAR WARS characters and spaceships out of LEGO® bricks! Campers will be using their creativity and our signature building methods to create a LEGO® Bobbo Fett, Baby Yoda, Darth Vadar’s LEGO® light saber and chamber, Luke Skywalker’s X-Wing Fighter, The Mandalorian’s armor, Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon, and much more! We have them all! Come explore the Galaxy in this one-of-a-kind STAR WARS LEGO® Camp!

All campers will take home fun crafts and have photos taken of all the fun LEGO® models they made throughout the week and take home a custom-made LEGO® minifigure!

SPORTS CAMPS

Tampa Prep Sports Camps are fun, active programs designed for both beginning and advanced players. Each camp is focused on building and refining skills at all levels. Campers will be given individual and group instruction to enhance their skills. They will develop personal and social skills through teamwork and build character and life skills through sports. Our outstanding, highly qualified instructors and state of the art facilities combine to provide a positive, fun and safe experience for all campers.  

Volleyball

Lacrosse

Rowing 

Soccer

Lacrosse

Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the USA!  At the TP Lacrosse Camp players will participate in fun lacrosse games and drills, including: practicing the techniques of passing, catching, shooting and game play.  This camp is designed for boys and girls ages 6-14 of all ability levels and playing experience. Athletes new to the sport of lacrosse are welcome to attend, too.  Players will be coached at their own individual level.  In between Lacrosse sessions & games, we will spend time visiting the splash pad and cooling off in the pool! The TP Lacrosse camp is operated by Palms Lacrosse Club, the fastest growing lacrosse program for boys and girls in the Tampa Bay area! Palms Lacrosse Club showcases success in both growing the game and competing at elite tournaments. The Palms Lacrosse Club staff has lacrosse experience in College Lacrosse D1, D2, D3, and Club programs, as well as Professional Lacrosse players! 

Soccer 

Young Terrapin Camp Ages (Boys + Girls) Ages 6-9

Welcome all boys and girls of every skill level! At our young terms camp, players will learn essential technical skills such as passing, dribbling, shooting, defending and more! Players will play in both fun, and challenging activities that will improve their abilities in this critical period of their soccer experience. 

Middle School Camp Girls Ages 9-14

Led by Tampa Prep Girls Soccer head coach, and USF Women’s Soccer Alumni, Ashley Meade, players will work daily to improve their technical abilities during this critical period in their soccer experience. Players of all skill sets are welcome to attend. Campers will experience fun, and challenging training sessions based on every aspect of the game: passing, dribbling, finishing, defending, possession and much more. At the end of every day, campers will compete in full sided games – with “tournament style” games being played on the final day of camp where a team will be crowned champions!

High-school Clinics (Girls Ages 14-17)

Led by Tampa Prep Girls Soccer head coach, and USF Women’s Soccer Alumni, Ashley Meade, players will compete daily, and develop tactically, technically through the day. This camp is meant for players at all levels, and will challenge each student-athlete to develop skills that they can take back to their teams. Players will experience drills, and games that the Tampa Prep Girls Soccer team uses to prepare themselves during their season. 

Rowing

Weeks 1-4: Learn-to-Row Camps

8:00-11:30am Monday-Friday. We will use the facilities over at the Julian B. Lane Park and the Tampa River Center boathouse for these camps. All middle school to high school students are welcome, regardless of rowing experience! Learn-to-Row camps are the perfect introduction to the sport of rowing. We will begin to learn the rowing stroke technique on land using the indoor rowing machines before launching on the Hillsborough River in 8-person and 4-person boats! By the end of a week, every athlete should feel they have a solid foundation of the rowing stroke. 

Weeks 5-6: Experienced Camps

8:00-11:30am Monday-Friday as well, utilizing the same facilities at Julian B. Lane and TRC boathouse. Any middle schooler or high schooler with rowing experience is welcome to sign on. This camp will be focused on improving each athlete’s technique and fitness in the context of the sport. We will be spending time on the water in a variety of boat sizes and athletes should expect a mix of physiologically intense workouts with easier, technically-focused drilling days mixed in. Overall, this camp is suited for anyone trying to grow in or perfect their craft of rowing!

Before Care and After Care is offered for the convenience of our parents who need to drop their campers off before 9:00 a.m. or pick them up after 3:30 p.m. This is a free play time for campers. Before Care and After Care take place in the gymnasium. Before Care begins at 8:00 a.m. and After Care ends promptly at 5:00 p.m.

Is your child signed up for an Enrichment, Robotics course or Sport Camp and wants to stay all day? Camp Terrapin Half-Day allows your child to attend a half-day course or camp and then attend Camp Terrapin in the afternoon. Campers will be placed with their age-appropriate group after lunch and experience all the fun Camp Terrapin has to offer!

Want to be a Camp Counselor?
Camp counselors are college students or existing teachers who must apply and interview with the Director of Summer Programs. All applicants must successfully complete a background check before being hired. Applications for the 2023 summer will be posted in February!

Want to be a Junior Camp Counselor?
Junior counselors are volunteer high school students (entering 9th-12th). Junior counselors must attend a training session before volunteering at camp. Parent approval and teacher recommendation are required. Applications for the 2023 summer will be posted in February!