At Keystone Science School (KSS), we believe our community is at the heart of everything we do. While our programs reach thousands of students across Colorado and beyond, we are especially committed and deeply passionate about supporting our neighbors here in Summit County. From affordable childcare to innovative science education, our goal is simple: to ensure that local children and families have access to the opportunities, experiences, and care they deserve.
Summit Day Camp: A Lifeline for Local Families
Summit Day Camp, a specifically allocated subset of day camp, is more than a summer program; it is a promise to Summit County families. We know that finding consistent, high-quality, and affordable childcare is one of the greatest challenges for local parents. That’s why we work tirelessly to make camp accessible to all, regardless of income.
- 175 unique campers from Summit County participated in 2025, across 773 weekly sessions.
- 56% of sessions were dedicated to low-income families.
- 147 Summit County families received direct support.
- In partnership with the Summit School District, 8,424 free meals were provided to local campers
- With $286,171 in tuition discounts and $5,500 in scholarships, families saved between $185–$484 per child, per week.
This commitment wouldn’t be possible without the strong support of organizations like the Summit Foundation, Copper Environmental Foundation, BGV Gives, FirstBank, VailResorts EpicPromise, Freeport McMoRan, and more. With funding from these organizations and others, Keystone Science School strives to raise over $300,000 per year to make Summit Day Camp affordable for Summit County residents. These investments reflect a shared passion for helping families live, work, and thrive in Summit County.
And yet, despite these efforts and other quality options in the county, the demand continues to outpace what we can provide. Each summer, more families apply than we can accommodate, and many still face financial and logistical barriers. We recognize this need, we hear it from our neighbors, and we are committed to finding ways to meet these needs and provide support in the years to come.
More Than Summer: Year-Round Local Impact
Our dedication extends far beyond the summer months. Throughout the year, KSS creates opportunities that strengthen our local community:
- Outdoor Education Programs: We welcome Summit County schools for hands-on science experiences that connect learning to our incredible mountain environment. Thanks to the funding of VailResort EpicPromise, KSS is able to provide 3rd-grade Mountain Ecology to every third-grade class in the county at no cost to the schools. We are working with the district to provide a progression from 3rd grade ecology to further our local support.
- Girls in STEM: Local girls explore careers and creativity in tracks like Medical Explorers and Film Fest. The culminating Film Festival, presented on the red carpet during the Breck Film Festival, gives students the chance to shine in front of their families and community. Discounts and transportation are offered to local participants.
- Community Partnerships: Through collaboration with more than 30 Summit County organizations, including Summit County Fire & EMS, High Country Conservation Center, and Breck Create, our programs highlight the strength and expertise within our own community.
- Economic Stability for Families: By ensuring reliable, high-quality childcare, we help parents continue working and contributing to the local economy. Supporting families means supporting the long-term stability of Summit County.
Passionate About Our Neighbors
Every program, every scholarship, and every partnership is rooted in one belief: that Summit County youth and families deserve our best. We are passionate about being a resource for this community—not only through education, but also through access, equity, and care.
We also recognize that there is more work to do. The need for affordable childcare and enriching out-of-school programs in Summit County is greater than what KSS can currently meet. Acknowledging this only strengthens our resolve. We are committed to growing, learning, and finding innovative ways to better serve the families who depend on us.
Join Us in Strengthening Summit County
We cannot do this alone. It takes all of us: parents, local governments, businesses, donors, and neighbors, working together to create a strong and thriving community for our children. Whether through a donation, partnership, or simply spreading the word, your support helps expand access and opportunities for Summit County families.
Together, we’re building a brighter future, one camper, one student, and one family at a time.
