RIO Leadership Camp
(Roots, Identity, Opportunity)
About:
RIO (Roots, Identity, Opportunity) Leadership Camp is a transformative experience designed for middle school migrant students in Washington state, held at the Cispus Learning Center from June 29 to July 2.
This camp aims to empower students by helping them explore their cultural roots, develop a strong sense of identity, and discover new opportunities for personal growth and leadership. Through a variety of team-building activities, leadership workshops, and outdoor adventures, participants will gain confidence, build lasting friendships, and acquire skills that will support their academic and personal success. The camp fosters a supportive environment where students can embrace their unique backgrounds and develop the tools they need to be leaders in their homes, families, schools, and communities.
Participating districts receive prioritized access by OSPI’s Migrant Education Program. Students are selected by their local migrant program director, who handle all aspects of recruitment and registration. This program is not open to the general public.
RIO LEADERSHIP
Sonia Servantes, Director
Conny Garcia, Assistant Director
Cispus Learning Center
The facilities of the Cispus Learning Center perfectly compliment the impressive wilderness of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Explore their website to discover more about dorms, dining, meeting spaces, and other amenities.
Transportation
Students travel to and from Cispus Learning Center in motor coaches with an onboard bathroom operated by Starline Motorcoaches. A RIO staff member serves as a chaperone to meet student needs while on the journey.
Challenge Course
Communication, collaboration, and leadership skills are developed through initiatives on the expansive lawn or low course in the woods. Students engage in social emotional learning, uphold safety ground rules, observe challenge by choices, establish group goals, and process what they have learned from their collective experiences.