What if I plan to take a vacation this summer?
If you plan to be away this summer, and would not be able to work a number of days during camp, it could hinder you from being hired. It is very difficult for us to find coverage when staff is gone, which could lead to unsafe ratios between campers and staff. It is very important that all staff are able to work 8 hours every day of camp. However, we do make some exceptions, so please be honest about your plans for the summer.
When will I know where I am placed? Can I choose my placement?
If you are hired, you will find out your placement with your offer letter. Placements will be made based on need and availability of positions. Although we can take your placement requests into consideration when making assignments, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to fulfill your request.
What are they looking for in a background check?
Because you will be working with children, it is imperative that there is nothing on your record that involves the mistreatment of children and any criminal offenses and convictions. We are also looking for any other red flags that may indicate how you will perform as an employee.
How many kids will be in my camp?
Camp size depends on location and enrollment. We try to keep the ratio between children and adults as small as possible. For Little Explorers camps (ages 3-5) typically the ratio is 5:1 and for all other camps, the ratio is typically 15:1.
I am responsible for creating the activities or is there a curriculum we must follow?
We do provide a curriculum for Little Explorer and Discovery camps that we recommend to be used as a guide. We strongly encourage staff to be creative and add their own ideas and personality to the curriculum. What is most important is that camps are engaging, enriching, and structured.
When would I receive my first paycheck? How often would I get paid?
Depending on your start date, your first check could be June 26th, or July 10th. Employees are paid every two weeks.
Will there be any opportunities for me to move into a full-time position with DPR?
DPR is constantly looking for talented and motivated individuals to add to our staff, and we take notice if a summer employee really excels in their position. An offer for full-time employment would depend on your performance during the summer, and the availability of positions in the fall. For full time positions with DPR, please visit www.dchr.dc.gov and check employment opportunities.