Lori Winne, Ph.D., Camp OFLA Program Director
Retired, Toledo Public Schools

Camp OFLA 2021 was a success with 67 campers learning Arabic, Chinese or Russian. The gift of a STARTALK grant made the experience free for campers. It also provided teachers and staff with guidance on best practices and several new ways of presenting camp, including better curriculum writing, more targeted language practice, use of authentic resources and intercultural activities.

The next STARTALK grant offering will be 2023. The Camp OFLA 2023 grant proposal has been submitted, again for Arabic, Chinese and Russian. Korean has been added. We await news of acceptance.

Meanwhile, Camp OFLA 2022 is in motion. The camp team has written proposals to over ten different foundations and companies and is awaiting replies. Requests are coming in through the www.campofla.org web site. Since this will not be a STARTALK year, the camp team has decided to offer once again French, German and Spanish. A new language, Korean, will be offered as well. Until we receive some response from donors, the cost for camp will be $500 per camper for the week. This includes room, meals, all activities and instruction. 

The location is still Templed Hills, our site for the last 16 years, located near Mansfield, Ohio. We now cook our own meals so that we can include typical and interesting dishes from the cultures we are exploring. Activities include instruction, games, cooking, crafts and music, in addition to the traditional water games, hiking, campfires, and treasure hunts. 

How can Ohio world language teachers help? First, and most importantly, spread the word! This camp is not just for elementary students (grades 3-8).  High school teachers can encourage their juniors and seniors to apply as counselors. In addition, high school teachers can also talk to their elementary colleagues and encourage their own high school students to inform younger siblings, neighbors and relatives. 

Secondly, share the www.campofla.org web site with your community foundations or companies to seek funds. The more donations we receive, the cost of camperships will be reduced. Scholarships can be donated through www.ofla.wildapricot.org. 

Thirdly, consider a partial or full scholarship sponsored by your language club. You can name the student(s) from your own school district! Club donations or school checks can be sent to Lisa Howie, OFLA treasurer, 7539 Aramis St. NW, Massillon, OH 44646.

In summary:

Camp OFLA 2022
French, German, Korean, Spanish 
Grades 3-8
June 5-11, 2022
Templed Hills, Bellville, Ohio
$500 per camper