SUMMER 2021 STAFF UPDATES

Operating in a “bubble” has proven to be the most effective way to create a self-contained environment and suppress viral transmission.

• Staff members will be required to arrive at camp on one of three designated days (determined by your role in camp), the latest at least two weeks before campers arrive on June 26. You will need proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival. After you get to camp, we will administer two more PCR tests before campers arrive.
• Campers will also be required to submit results of negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival and will be tested two additional times after they arrive at camp.

Keeping our camp community “negative” will give us the confidence that our bubble is working.

We have made arrangements for PCR testing with NorDx, the largest regional laboratory in Maine. NorDx will supply the test kits, our medical staff will collect the specimens, and we will transport them immediately to the NorDx lab in Scarborough, Maine. We will have results within 24-72 hours which optimizes our ability to identify and isolate anyone with a positive result.

We have our fair share of runny noses and overheated girls under normal circumstances, so we will have antigen rapid tests in camp for anyone who exhibits even the slightest COVID-19 symptoms. While not as reliable as PCR testing, it does allow us to identify anyone with a positive result and take immediate and appropriate precautions.

We are currently working with a team of medical professionals who are continuously reviewing and updating our protocols. We will send a complete summary of protocols in late spring with detailed information, including specific instructions leading up to your arrival day. We will implement all recommended safeguards, but rest assured that camp will feel the same as always and include our iconic special events like Election of Captains, Age Group Shows, Sing Song, Wish Night, and the Wacked-Up Relay.

We are planning to run our normal seven-week season, but remain flexible should circumstances dictate a change. We all share the desire to create the safest possible environment for our children and staff. All staff should plan to arrive at camp on the date that corresponds to your respective position. Please see our Staff page for dates, or confirm with Keely. (Please Note: If for any reason we shorten our season, we will NOT pro-rate your salary.)

We want you to know that the needs of our staff are top of mind. We are planning for every contingency, including the need to host days off in camp. While we haven’t ruled it out, currently it is hard to imagine a scenario where it would be prudent to breach our bubble and allow staff out of camp into the broader community. With that in mind, we are thinking of creative ways to make your time off enjoyable. We will have designated “Staff Only” areas, ample access to WiFi, access to our beautiful waterfront and lake, special meals, and plenty of food and snacks. We are committed to making sure you get some well-deserved time for yourself. We have a few “tricks up our sleeve” and are open to any ideas that will enhance your time at camp this summer.

• All staff should plan to bring disposable and washable masks to camp.
• With the guidance of our medical team, we will follow CDC and Maine state guidelines to determine when, and under what conditions, campers and staff should wear masks.
• We will follow a general protocol of handwashing before and after activities. We will have hand sanitizer located liberally throughout camp.
• Campers will travel to activities with personal hand sanitizer and water bottles in a drawstring bag.
• Equipment used in activities will be cleaned and disinfected on a regular basis according to prevailing CDC and state guidelines.

Please check your myTLC account regularly where you will find helpful information, staff bulletins, and required forms. When we need a specific form, we will send an email to inform you of an upcoming deadline. We will host staff and department Zoom calls to relay information and to give you an opportunity to ask questions. We will give you plenty of advance notice when we start to schedule these calls.

We have a team of seasoned veterans in all the key positions at camp. There is no detail too small, and we are readily available if you have questions or need help with anything at all. Please feel free to reach out to Keely by email, keely@tripplakecamp.com, or call Sam in our Maine office, (207) 998-4347.

We look forward to being in touch with you in the weeks and months ahead as we put together our plans for a fantastic summer!