Students will have the chance to play lacrosse and other outdoor sports and games, meet new friends, and develop their academic and social-emotional skills. Students will form teams and will compete in fun competitions on the field and in the classroom throughout Summer Academy. 90% of the participants that enroll in Summer Academy are a part of Harlem Lacrosse at their individual schools throughout the school year, so there is already a powerful and positive culture at the program. This existing rapport and trust between program directors and students allows for a “faster” adjustment to the summer curriculum and a greater degree of buy-in amongst the students. Another special component of summer academy is that many of the Harlem Lacrosse high school students and college-aged alumni will be paid as youth employees throughout the duration of camp. Having our oldest students and alum working as “Counselors-in-Training” and assistant program directors is inspiring to the middle school participants and allows for real-world work experience without sacrificing a fun camp experience.