Murfreesboro City Schools offered their first ever special needs camp at Scales Elementary from June 6 - 10. The free camp, deemed Camp 'Boro, was created by the MCS Special Education Department after discussing ways to offer special needs students a summer camp opportunity where they could have fun and work on communication and motor skills. During the weeklong camp students enjoyed activities including karate, cheerleading, interactive games, exercises, art and even a petting zoo.
"This is our first ever camp for students with disabilities and we're happy to have the opportunity to provide a camp experience for children who may never have been to camp before," explained Joe Marlin, Director of Special Education for Murfreesboro City Schools.
Each day students get to experience a different theme and activities corresponding to the selected topic. On Monday students were able to participate in Super Hero Day, followed by Olympic Sports Day on Tuesday, Movie Star Day, Animal Day and finally Water Day. Over 30 students and 60 volunteers participated in the camp.
"We've been able to provide this camp at no expense to our families because generous individuals and businesses in our community have graciously donated time and money to make this all possible. We've even been able to provide transportation for those campers who need it," continued Marlin.
In addition to the many hours of donated time from local companies, MCS staff and MTSU, around $14,000 was contributed by businesses and residents to offer this free camp. Camp 'Boro sponsors include Atmos Energy, Public Consulting Group, First Community Mortgage, Family Worship Center, Ole South Properties, Inc., MMC Pediatrics, Presence Learning, Councilwoman Madelyn Scales Harris, St. Thomas Rutherford, Thigpen Hearing Center, Genesis Rutherford Academy, Feltz Therapy Services, Bill Taylor's Karate, John Kitch Attorney, Johnson + Bailey Architects, The Refuge, Raymond James, MT Rugby and Sinking Creek Farm.
Murfreesboro City Schools is a district of twelve schools committed to the academic and personal success of each child.
