2025 Leadership Team:

• Tri-Directors: Sergio Barrera, Diana Betancourt, Monica Vera

• Elders: Kim Jansen, Travis Ruhter, Vincent Perez

• Adviser Strand Leaders: Sonia Cervantes

• JC Coordinator: TBD

Welcome, La Cima SENIOR Staff 2025!

Please APPLY BY DECEMBER 1, 2024!

Staff Commitment: Monday, July 7th 11am Arrival - Sunday, July 13th 3pm Departure

@ Central Washington University

Professional Learning Community Schedule:

• Spring Staff Retreat: April 26-27, 2025

  PLC Schedule: Online Meetings

• October 26, 2024 - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

• December TBD, 2025 - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

• January TBD, 2025 - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

• February TBD, 2025 - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

• March TBD, 2025 - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

• May TBD, 2025 - 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Please complete this form to serve on La Cima WA SENIOR STAFF 2025 at CWU:

The organization

The Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP) sponsors student leadership programs through the Association of Washington Student Leaders (AWSL). AWSL operates under the Washington School Principals Education Foundation (WSPEF) which is the 501-c-3 foundation of AWSP.

La Cima exists to impart leadership and life skills to Latinx youth. We created this camp to serve all Latinx high school youth (grades 9-12) who want to make a positive difference in their schools and communities. All content is delivered in English and Spanish, leveraging bicultural skills and affirming delegates’ self-worth and bilingual assets. We recognize all Latinx youth have valuable strengths and incredible potential for leadership. We encourage schools to collaborate with Latinx clubs, groups, and other advisers to select the students who can benefit from this camp experience. We also encourage schools to register students who can commit to the camp session from start to finish. 

La Cima is an intensive week of leadership development and learning with high school students from all areas of Washington. We teach lessons through team-building, stories, games, songs, dance, art projects, and interactive presentations. Areas of focus include self-awareness, social awareness, communication skills, planning skills, positive teamwork, identity, empowerment, school culture, and self-efficacy, among others.

Senior Counselor (SC)

Reports to: Directors

Overview: Senior Counselors (SC) are key members of the La Cima camp staff, responsible for leading two student groups: a council and a committee. Councils are small groups of delegates who experience the 5-day camp together as a cohort, participating in leadership lessons, group discussions, personal reflection, and art-making. Committees serve the camp community through experiential education, with students executing activities at camp that are mock school projects such as a Hispanic Heritage assembly, a career fair, talent show, banquet, outdoor team tournaments, and more. SCs meet each night of camp to reflect on the day and prepare for the next day.

The SC position is a 7-day commitment and requires full participation in all aspects of camp. The successful candidate will be an enthusiastic, creative, and committed educator who is passionate about working with high school students to help them develop as leaders and make a positive difference in their schools and communities.

Responsibilities:

• Teach and lead small group councils throughout the 5-day camp experience

• Deliver lessons, lead reflections, offer feedback, and facilitate small group challenges for council members

• Lead committees and guide students in executing mock school projects

• Provide support and guidance to committee members in their roles and responsibilities

• Foster a positive and inclusive camp environment for all delegates and staff

• Participate in daily staff meetings and collaborate with other staff members to ensure a cohesive and effective camp experience

• Serve as a mentor and role model for all campers and JC’s, promoting positive behavior and attitudes

• Provide first aid and basic medical care as needed and ensure the overall safety and well-being of all campers and staff

• Attend training sessions and meetings as required

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in education, counseling, or a related field

• Experience working with youth in a leadership capacity, preferably in a camp or school setting

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment

• Demonstrated leadership and organizational abilities

• Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills

• Familiarity with diverse communities, particularly the Latinx community

• Ability to work long hours and maintain a positive attitude in a high-energy environment

• Current CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification prior to the start of camp

• Fluency in English and Spanish is preferred but not required.

SC’s are professional educators and community leaders who are hired to facilitate the leadership development of student attending camp. They oversee a council group of 14-15 students. Typically, an SC is paired with a JC for council time. An SC is also assigned to a dorm group for final check-in each evening. SC’s are guides, facilitators and questioners during the week. They will teach, listen and challenge delegates to grow as leaders.  SC’s are accountable to camp directors.

The AWSP Student Leadership Committee who serves as the governing board for AWSL programs has established the following guideline for paid camp positions.  “High school leadership camps will be staffed with a minimum of 60% staff that is currently employed in a high school and that the director and/or the assistant director will be currently employed in a high school.” 

Wellness Counselor

Reports to: Camp Directors, Medics, JC Coordinators

Overview: Wellness Counselors are responsible for promoting the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of all campers while supporting their growth and development as leaders. 

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement wellness programs and activities that support the overall goals and objectives of the camp.

• Provide individual and group counseling to campers on issues related to mental health, self-esteem, body image, stress management, and other relevant topics.

• Collaborate with other camp staff to create a safe and supportive environment for campers.

• Conduct assessments and screenings to identify campers who may need additional support or intervention.

• Assist with crisis intervention and management as needed.

• Facilitate workshops and presentations on wellness-related topics for both campers and staff.

• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all camper interactions and services provided.

• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and other camp-related activities as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field.

• Licensed or license-eligible in the state of Washington.

• Minimum of two years of experience working with youth.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Fluency in both English and Spanish is highly preferred.

Working at La Cima is a unique and rewarding experience that offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of Latinx high school youth. If you are passionate about wellness and youth development, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Medic

Reports to: Camp Director, Wellness Counselor

Overview: The La Cima Medic will be responsible for providing first aid, medication, and emergency response services to camp delegates and staff during the 5-day camp. The Medic will also be responsible for implementing preventative measures to ensure the health and safety of all camp attendees.

Responsibilities:

• Provide on-site medical care for camp delegates and staff.

• Respond to medical emergencies and provide immediate first aid.

• Administer medication to delegates as prescribed by their healthcare provider.

• Document all medical incidents and treatments provided.

• Monitor and assess the health status of delegates and staff throughout the camp session.

• Implement preventative measures to ensure the health and safety of all camp attendees.

• Educate delegates and staff on preventative measures to avoid heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other common ailments.

• Maintain and manage all medical supplies and equipment.

• Collaborate with the camp director and staff to ensure the camp environment is safe and healthy.

• Provide training and guidance to camp staff on basic first aid and emergency response.

• Communicate with parents and guardians regarding any medical concerns or incidents involving their child.

• Follow all state and federal regulations related to the administration of medication and the provision of medical care.

Qualifications:

• Current certification as a Registered Nurse or licensed Practical Nurse in the state of Washington.

• Previous experience in emergency response and first aid.

• Ability to work independently and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations.

• Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to drive to the nearest hospital in case of emergency.

• Experience working with youth is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time.

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Working Conditions:

• This is a full-time, on-site position during the 5-day camp session.

• Accommodations will be provided on-site.

• Work schedule will vary and will include evenings.

Corazón

Reports to: Camp Directors

Overview: La Cima is seeking a Corazón to support camp logistics, lead large group activities, and serve as an emcee for evening presentations. The Corazón will also coordinate mealtime duties and announcements, provide general logistical support, and assist with lifting and moving supplies.

Responsibilities:

• Provide logistical support for camp operations including setup and breakdown of equipment, sound system setup, and notebook distribution

• Lead large group activities and icebreakers to engage campers and promote team-building

• Serve as an emcee for evening presentations and coordinate announcements during meal times

• Support with lifting and moving supplies and other materials as needed

• Assist with other duties as assigned by the Camp Director or Coordinator

Qualifications:

• Experience working with youth in a camp, educational or related setting

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to lead group activities and engage a diverse group of students

• Physical ability to lift and move supplies as needed

• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred

The ideal candidate for the Corazón role is an early career professional or college graduate who is passionate about youth development and promoting leadership skills. They must have experience working with youth and be able to work in a fast-paced environment while handling multiple tasks. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are a must, as well as the ability to lead group activities and engage students. Additionally, the Corazón must be physically able to lift and move supplies as needed. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred.

Junior Counselor (JC)

Reports To: JC Coordinator; SC

Overview: Junior Counselors (JC) are typically former delegates and ¡La Chispa! Mentors who have been selected through an application process to volunteer their time as a part of the La Cima camp staff. They are responsible for working with the Senior Counselors (SCs) to provide a positive leadership camp experience for all delegates. JC’s are accountable to SC’s and to the camp director.

It is recommended that a successful JC serve no more than three years in the position. Junior Counselors are assigned to each dorm and are required to be present in the dorms at all times when delegates are present. They also play a key role in leading evening reflections activity in dorms and leading dorm group icebreakers. The Junior Counselor is an important position in the La Cima camp staff, providing guidance and support to both the SC’s and delegates alike.

Responsibilities:

• Act as teaching assistant for the Senior Counselors (SCs)

• Act as a peer adviser for the delegates

• Model responsible behaviors

• Observe camp climate

• Show sincere enthusiasm (cheerleader for camp)

• Promote inclusion

• Pursue higher education in your personal life

• Learn and grow as a person and leader

• Demonstrate servant leadership

Duties:

• Supervise dorms and establish positive community living spaces

• Create an inclusive and safe camp environment

• Support the SC’s as "teaching assistants" in councils

• Assist with camp logistics

• Be a role model

• Lead evening reflections activity in dorms

• Lead dorm group icebreakers

• Model presentation techniques for council evening presentations

• Help facilitate campfire/social

• Create camp décor

• Help delegates into dorms during registration & assist with early-bird activities

• Help with organized recreation

• Prepare supplies for council

Requirements:

• Must be a high school graduate and most are enrolled in college

• Must have previously attended La Cima as a delegate, ¡La Chispa! as a Mentor, or have a  service history

• Must be willing to volunteer their time and services

• Must be a positive role model for all delegates

• Must demonstrate leadership and interpersonal skills

• Must be able to commit to the entire camp session

• Must be able to work well in a team-oriented environment

Tri-Director

Overview: The Tri-Director team is responsible for leading and managing the La Cima Leadership Camp. They will work closely with staff, counselors, and delegates to ensure the success of the program. The Tri-Director team will be responsible for creating and implementing a comprehensive curriculum, managing risk and emergency response, and supervising staff members.

Responsibilities:

• Hire, train, and supervise all staff members, including SCs, JC's, Medics, Wellness Counselors, and Corazones

• Create and implement a comprehensive curriculum for the 6-day program

• Oversee all aspects of the camp program, including scheduling, risk management, emergency response, and logistics

• Work with staff members to develop and execute leadership activities and programming for delegates

• Facilitate daily meetings with the SCs to reflect on the day's events and plan for the following day

• Respond to any emergencies or incidents that may arise during the camp

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all delegates, staff members, and visitors

• Act as the liaison between the camp and the host organization and facility

• Manage and oversee the budget for the program

• Ensure that all camp policies and procedures are followed by staff members and delegates

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in education, leadership, or related field

• At least 5 years of experience in a leadership or management role, preferably in an educational or camp setting

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to lead and motivate staff members

• Experience in risk management and emergency response

• Familiarity with the needs and challenges of high school students

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Knowledge of budget management and financial planning

• Passion for youth development and leadership education

The ideal Tri-Director candidate should have strong leadership skills with a proven ability to foster staff support, wellbeing, and competence. They should be experienced in managing a team and have a passion for working with high school students in a leadership capacity. Additionally, they should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively liaise with the staff, parents, and the community. The candidate should have a track record of successful risk management and emergency response planning in high-pressure situations, with an emphasis on ensuring the safety of all participants. They should also have experience in developing and implementing policies and procedures that promote safety, inclusivity, and equity.

A demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple projects and priorities, work independently and as part of a team, and problem-solve in a fast-paced environment is a must. Candidates should possess strong organizational skills and be able to work with budgets, schedules, and timelines. The ideal candidate will be flexible, adaptable, and able to handle challenges with creativity and composure. They should have experience in managing budgets and resources, and possess strong analytical and decision-making skills. Overall, the ideal candidate should be passionate about creating a positive and impactful experience for high school students in a camp setting, and be committed to promoting personal growth, leadership development, and a culture of inclusivity and equity.