Why Educators Love Teaching at Camp Invention

Do you love to see students light up when they reach new milestones? At Camp Invention^®, those rewarding moments happen all week long. For over 35 years, the National Inventors Hall of Fame^® has partnered with educators across the country to empower students through enriching summer experiences that unlock their creative potential.

Combining hands-on STEM and exploratory learning, Camp Invention is designed for both students and teachers to thrive. Fostering curiosity and discovery, this nationally acclaimed program illuminates the joy of teaching, supporting educators to grow professionally alongside enthusiastic campers. 

Read on to learn why educators love teaching at Camp Invention each summer.

Professional Development 

Professional development is just one of many perks of implementing the Camp Invention program. During the camp week, educators find transferable teaching strategies for creating immersive STEM experiences in the classroom. From open-ended challenges to creative problem solving, each day broadens what’s possible in the classroom. Camp Invention’s innovative educational resources also include opportunities for differentiated instruction to help educators meet students where they are on their learning journey.  

Turnkey Programming 

No prep, no hassle! With no prior STEM experience needed, educators of all backgrounds can easily bring Camp Invention to life with an innovative, ready-to-use curriculum. All the materials you need are shipped to your site to make each camp experience an organized success. This turnkey program provides High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) and a step-by-step curriculum guide so that educators can be present with students as the fun unfolds!  

"This is my fifth year as an Instructor for Camp Invention. The lessons and materials provided make things fun and creative, so we can teach the lessons and not worry about gathering supplies, videos, etc."
—Nan B., Camp Invention Instructor 

Stipends 

Strengthen your teaching skills while earning extra money! Close the paycheck gap and earn over the summer doing what you love most – inspiring students to see themselves as capable creators. All educators who sign up to teach at Camp Invention receive a newly increased stipend payable through direct deposit, a letter of recognition from the United States Patent and Trademark Office and a certificate representing three CEUs.*

Support

With dedicated support from the National Inventors Hall of Fame throughout the camp week, educators have a seamless experience teaching at Camp Invention. Smaller class sizes are complemented by Leadership Intern (LI) support throughout the week, ensuring every camper benefits from the enriching experiences. From helpful video tutorials and training to dedicated support, our Regional Representatives provide guidance, one-on-one coaching and answer questions to assist in making the camp a success. Each year’s brand-new program undergoes a 20-month testing and development process to ensure that educators have a seamless teaching experience.

Joyful Experiences

Each summer’s brand-new Camp Invention curriculum is informed by the stories of Hall of Fame Inductees and provides opportunities for educators to be even more creative with how they engage students. Because fun is an important part of the formula for meaningful learning at camp, educators have the opportunity to uncover the joy of imagination while guiding students to build STEM skills through hands-on exploration. 

“I loved how fun the curriculum was! It was fun to teach, which meant it made it fun for the students to learn. I was able to really get into the character of a scientist working in a laboratory and play it up to make it engaging for the students. It was a blast!”
—Sara C., Camp Invention Instructor 

Savings

Did you know that many Camp Invention Instructors send their own children to camp? All Directors and Instructors enjoy two free camp registrations for their own children in grades K-6.

There are so many reasons educators love to lead Camp Invention each summer! Check out this video to hear directly from them: 

Bring Camp Invention to Students This Summer 

At camp, you’ll make authentic connections with students and pick up new classroom strategies for innovative learning. Start cultivating more “aha” moments this summer — visit our website to find out how you inspire the next generation of innovators at Camp Invention. 

*Acceptance of CEUs is subject to your state or district continuing education requirements.