CIT Program
Thank you for your interest in Frederick County Parks and Recreation’s Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program!
3/25/20 Update: Please contact Sarah Delise at sdelise@frederickcountymd.gov if you are interested in completing an online application and signing up for an online group interview. Deadline for consideration is April 4, 2020.
2020 Counselor in Training (CIT)
For Grades 6-12 (in 2021-2022 School Year
Our LIT (Leader in Training) program has now merged with our CIT (Counselor in Training) program.
Any teen in Grades 6-12 (in the 2021-2022 school year) can apply for the CIT program.
The CIT program is a hands-on educational program designed to develop the skills necessary to be an effective camp counselor.
Program focus includes developing leadership, communication skills, team-building, goal-setting and working with children. It is not "working" at camp.
A CIT is still technically a camper and therefore bound by many of the same rules and restrictions as regular campers, as well as the same code of behavior and policies as regular program staff. CITS will always work with another counselor and will receive mentorship from a camp director and CIT program coordinator.
The primary duty of a CIT is to assist with the overall supervision of campers and help to provide a safe, clean, supportive, and enjoyable atmosphere for campers. CITs help to contribute ideas and help with the planning of themed activities, and will plan and carry out at least two independently led activities each week, under the mentorship of the Camp Director and staff. The session will end with an individual evaluation by the Camp Directors and recommendations for the continuation of each participant’s development.
At this time, CITs may be invited back for additional sessions; an additional registration fee would apply. CITs may receive SSL hours for time spent assisting with the supervision of campers and are responsible for their completion of all required paperwork with their school.
All CIT applicants should be interested in working with children and possess maturity, flexibility, a strong work ethic, and the ability to have fun.
How are CITs Selected?
CIT space is competitive and selective based off of group interview performance and full and detailed completion of their application.
Group Interviews
To be considered for a CIT position, all returning and new candidates must attend (1) group interview session, where they will showcase their talents by leading a group game, activity, song, or craft. CIT applicants will also work to independently complete a written application.
CITs will need to come prepared with names and contact information for (3) professional references (teacher, pastor, volunteer group leader, coach, etc).
More information on group interview sessions will be available in January 2021.
Acceptance & Registration Information
CIT applicants will be informed of their acceptance in April 2021. Applicants that have not been selected will be provided feedback and suggestions for development and programs that are available to assist with that. They will also be encouraged to apply again next year!
CIT Training
Applicants that have been accepted into the program will receive an acceptance letter and information on how to register for the 2-week session to secure their spot. Applicants must be able to commit to an entire 2-week session and attend (1) one mandatory training (dates listed below). Accepted CITs will attend a pre-camp staff training consisting of planning and playing games, safety training, leadership skills, and expectations of a CIT.
Training Dates
TBD
Registration is $50 for the two-week session and the CIT must attend each day of their session. Since a CIT program is a training program, CITs are not paid, nor is there a guarantee that once the CIT has successfully completed the program, that they will be hired as a future camp counselor.
Financial assistance funds may be available for the CIT Program, and can be inquired through our administrative office at 301-600-2936.
Available Weeks:
SESSION 1: TBD
SESSION 2: TBD
SESSION 3: TBD
SESSION 4: TBD
Time: 8:30-4:30pm
Available Locations:
- Pinecliff – Outdoor Adventure Camp
- Monocacy: Middletown Rec Center
- Monocacy: Oakdale Rec Center* (not available for Session 4)
- Monocacy: Sugarloaf Rec Center
- Monocacy: Walkersville Rec Center
- Monocacy: Tuscarora Rec Center
- Catoctin Creek Nature Center
- Fountain Rock Nature Center
- Rose Hill Museum
Contact Sarah Delise directly for more information on possible half-day camp options, including half-day preschool enrichment camps and half-day preschool and youth sports development camps.
Camp Counselors
If you are interested in applying for a day camp counselor, nature counselor, or sports camp counselor position, please click HERE to browse and apply. Must be at least 16 years old.
Teen Camps
Please check back in January 2021 for more information.