NHRCES Summer STREAM Camp Wrap-Up: Exploration, Innovation, Faith & Fun!

This summer, over 115 students from the North Hills Regional Catholic Elementary Schools (NHRCES), local public districts, and homeschool programs gathered at three locations - St. Gregory School in Zelienople, Holy Cross Academy in Ross Township, and Blessed Francis Seelos Academy in Wexford - for an unforgettable four weeks of Summer STREAM Camp. From rockets and rovers to saints and songs, the 2025 camp season marked a new chapter in the growing tradition of hands-on, faith-filled learning in the North region.

Each week was thoughtfully crafted to bring STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, the Arts, and Math) to life in engaging and accessible ways. Campers explored chemistry through culinary arts, designed and tested solar ovens, built and launched rockets, constructed their own Mars-style rovers, and even rehearsed and performed Disney’s Frozen Kids. Catholic identity was brought into the camp with students learning about saints and values throughout. Fr. James Wehner, Pastor of Divine Grace Parish in Zelienople, and Fr. James Gretz, Pastor of Saint Matthew Parish in Glenshaw and Vice President of the NHRCES Board, visited the camps to share faith-based reflections with campers.

"Week one at St. Gregory was an absolute blast—literally! Our space exploration theme launched students into a world of curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning," said Camp Director Stephanie Baldauf from St. Gregory School in Zelienople. 

"We loved seeing how each child connected with different aspects of STREAM—from science experiments to artistic performances to quiet moments in prayer,” shared Kristy Frisco, Camp Director at Holy Cross Academy in Ross Township. “The faith component is what makes our program so unique - it’s what brings everything together.”

Each week included visits from regional partners and presenters. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Zoomobile, Mad Science, and Professor Steve's Magic of Science shows brought hands-on demonstrations that lit up the imaginations of young learners. The AHN Chill Project kicked off each week with lessons on emotional regulation and donated calming “Chill Corners” to each site - spaces for campers to rest and recharge. AHN also treated students to a Shiver’s Shaved Ice snack at the end of each week, adding another chill aspect to the camp.

“Watching the kids build something with their own hands and then actually launch it, or perform on stage, was incredible,” said Alison Narvett, Camp Director at Blessed Francis Seelos Academy in Wexford. “You could see their confidence growing day by day.”

Safety and nutrition were also front and center. Goldfish Swim School in Wexford provided a water safety lesson and a fun visit from their mascot, Bubbles, complete with Goldfish snacks. Campers enjoyed weekly pizza parties, generously donated by Goodfello’s Pizza Pasta & Grille, Lupi's Famous Pizza, Cenci’s Pizza, and Adrian’s Pizza. Soergel’s Orchards delivered crisp apples weekly, and Nothing Bundt Cakes provided sweet treats to wrap up each session.

“I got to launch a really cool rocket, I made a marble rollercoaster, I got to dance on a real stage, and dress up in fun costumes! I can’t wait to go back next year!” exclaimed Ruby K., rising third-grader, Blessed Francis Seelos Academy.

Behind the scenes, an army of high school volunteers from Central Catholic, Oakland Catholic, Our Lady of Sacred Heart, North Catholic, and Saint Joseph supported camp operations, serving as role models, assistants, and friendly faces.

Mrs. Stephanie Kirby, whose children have attended since the camp’s inception in 2023, noted, “The NHRCES has done an amazing job with their summer camps. They are educational, nurturing, and safe. My kids look forward to them every year!”

This year marks the third year of NHRCES Summer Camp, with each year expanding the program’s scope—beginning with STEM in year one, adding the arts in year two (STEAM), and finally launching into a fully integrated STREAM model in 2025. The goal for next year is to continue expanding the number of weeks and opportunities available across the region.

To learn more or to get involved in NHRCES Summer STREAM Camp 2026, visit www.nhrces.org.

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