The school year may be winding down, but the fun is just getting started. At Innovations Academy, a tuition-free K-8 public school in San Diego, we believe summer is one of the best times for kids to dig into something they love and this summer, we’re bringing that spirit right to our campus. Our lineup of camps is led by the IA teachers and educators who know your kids well, and there is genuinely something for everyone.
From the kitchen to the stage to the great outdoors, here’s a taste of what’s waiting this summer (all classes, registration information, and before and after care can be found here):
In the Kitchen
Got a budding chef at home? We have two cooking camps with Teacher Devon this summer — one for beginners building foundational skills and one for students ready to level up with more advanced techniques. Both take campers on a culinary journey around the world, and yes, lunch is included.
On the Stage
Our beloved performing arts camps with Natasha are back for their 8th year in a row! Junior campers (incoming 2nd–5th grade) rehearse and perform a full show in just five days. Senior campers (incoming 7th–12th grade) go deeper into stagecraft, auditions, and technical theater. Both camps end with a final performance families are invited to attend.
In the Studio
Young artists and makers have plenty to explore:
- Spin Me Right Round — Pottery on the wheel (middle school)
- Clay Exploration —- handbuilding with clay (2nd–5th grade)
- Movie making — brainstorm, film, edit, and screen a short film
- Mini Makers STEAM Lab — potions, slime, robots, and coding (K–3rd)
- Mini Makers Art Studio — jewelry, paper mâché, clay, and beginner sewing (K–2nd)
- Camp Craft and Create — a week of hands-on art projects to take home (K–5th)
In the Pages
Harry Potter fans, this one’s for you. Two separate book-based Harry Potter camps walk campers through Sorcerer’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets — Hogwarts houses, Quidditch, butterbeer, and movie comparisons included.
Teacher Natalie also offers an Enchanted Forest Camp and an Around the World in 5 Days Camp for younger students (incoming 1st–4th) that blend storytelling, culture, and imagination.
Tactile Textiles
Intro to Crochet gives students (incoming 4th–8th) a full week to go from zero experience to making their own crocheted creation, complete with a PJ and movie party on the final day.
On the Move
For kids who need to be outside and in motion:
- Hiking Camp — a different San Diego trail every day (3rd–8th)
- Surf and Yoga Beach Camp — learn to surf (we can provide the boards!), then unwind with yoga and beach games (3rd–8th)
- Olympic Sports Camp — soccer, basketball, and volleyball with Coach Adam (3rd–8th)
- Camp Game On! — relay races, water games, mini-Olympics events, and obstacle courses (K–5th)
- Camp Adventure — an outdoor adventure week building real-world skills through hiking, paddling, navigation challenges, survival basics, and team-based activities culminating in an overnight campout (6th–8th)
- Feathers and Fun Bird Camp with Mary, our beloved Nature Studies teacher: birding at Hendrix Pond, playing nature games, crafting, and meeting live animals (2nd–8th)
Camp dates run throughout June and July, with options for a wide range of ages and interests. Most camps are held right here on our beautiful campus. Spots are limited, so we encourage you to reach out soon. Full details, pricing, and registration contacts for each camp are available here— or just ask us, we’re happy to help.
Have a great summer and we’ll see you in the Fall to continue learning in a play-based, hands-on way. Not enrolled? Schedule a tour at innovationsacademy.org or call 858-271-1414. We’re enrolling now for 2026-27.
About Innovations Academy:
Innovations Academy is a tuition-free public charter school serving kindergarten through eighth grade in San Diego, California. Our small school values a hands-on, inquiry-based education with high academic standards using self-expression, compassionate connection, and purposeful learning. Our new modern campus is intentionally designed with curiosity and exploration in mind. Join our innovative school today! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Find us at innovationsacademy.org.