Navigators is designed for students who are ready for significant independence, complex challenges, and leadership opportunities. If your child is curious about how things work, wants meaningful responsibility, and is ready to set their own goals and manage their time, Navigators will be an excellent fit. Our counselors facilitate learning while releasing control, trusting campers to take ownership.

While Achievers focuses on persistence with guided project work, Navigators emphasizes student agency and self-direction. Campers set their own goals, design their approaches, and make decisions about how they learn. There's significantly more independence, leadership responsibility, and expectation that students will self-monitor and adapt without constant adult guidance.

Rather than following a prescribed project, Navigators are given complex challenges that require them to design solutions, test ideas, evaluate outcomes, and adapt strategies. For example, during "Sustainable Design Week," campers might identify a real problem, research potential solutions, prototype designs, test them, refine based on results, and present findings—all while developing systems thinking and project management skills.

Navigators have significant autonomy within a structured framework. They make choices about what to work on, how to approach challenges, how to manage their time, and which roles to take on. Counselors are available for guidance and support but intentionally step back to allow campers to problem-solve independently.

Middle school is a complex time socially, and our counselors are trained to support identity development, peer dynamics, and emotional regulation. We create a culture where discussion, respectful debate, and constructive feedback are valued. Campers practice leadership, learn to navigate group conflicts, and develop confidence in their voices and ideas.

Absolutely. Navigators are expected to take on leadership roles—whether leading a project team, mentoring younger campers during all-camp events, or facilitating group discussions. Leadership at DEAN isn't about being in charge; it's about taking responsibility, supporting others, and contributing thoughtfully to the community.

Our counselors are skilled at supporting diverse social needs. We create an inclusive environment where different working styles are respected, collaboration is structured thoughtfully, and social skills are built gradually. Many campers who struggle in traditional school settings thrive at DEAN because they're working alongside peers who share their interests and working on projects that feel meaningful.

Yes! Navigators often sustain work across multiple days, allowing for deeper engagement and more sophisticated outcomes. This extended timeline supports planning, iteration, and refinement—all critical skills for this age group.

Dress for serious making! Campers should wear comfortable clothes (your DEAN t-shirt is perfect!) that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes appropriate for workshop environments, and sun-safe clothing. Projects at this level involve real tools and materials. Send your DEAN water bottle with your child's name and sunscreen daily.

We're happy to discuss your child's specific maturity level, independence, and readiness for self-directed work. Contact us and we'll help you determine the best fit based on your child's developmental stage and interests.