CIT Application Form - Summer 2021

Counselor-in-Training Program
2021 Application

Dear Applicant:

Thank you for your interest in participating in the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program. In this job training program, you will learn about working with children, leadership, teamwork, management, and more.

If you will be 15 years old by June 7, 2021 (returning CITs encouraged to apply), you are eligible to interview for one of our Camp Counselor positions. If you are interested, please contact Chris Penaranda for more information: 650.329.2478 | CITprogram@cityofpaloalto.org

If you are 13 or 14 years old and are interested in being a CIT, please complete the CIT application and return it as soon as possible. The application deadline is FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2021! Please note that spaces are limited and completing the application and interview does not guarantee admission into this program.

If accepted into the program, you must attend one of two In-Service Trainings (see dates on page 3). These trainings will focus on leadership, management, city policies and the skills needed to be a successful CIT. The training workshops are required for all new and returning participants. No makeup dates will be held. After attending training, you are eligible to participate in a camp session. Please view the CIT recruitment information (page 2-3) for details about dates, times and fees.

This application is your opportunity to explain why you want to be a CIT and why you would do an excellent job. Here are some tips for completing the application:
- Fill out the application yourself. We want to know why you are interested in being a CIT. Do you enjoy working with children? Are you passionate about leadership? Did you enjoy attending one of our camps? Do you want to learn what it’s like to work at a summer camp? Tell us what makes this program exciting to you.
- Explain why you would be a good CIT. We are looking for people who love working with children, are interested in leadership and are very responsible and dependable. Show us why these things are true about you!
Applications can be submitted online, if you have any questions or concerns please email CITprogram@cityofpaloalto.org.

After you submit this application, you will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule an interview. The interview is a chance for you to ask any questions you have about the program and is also part of how we determine which camp is the best match for you. The interview will last approximately 15 minutes. Please come prepared with any questions you may have.

We look forward to meeting you!

Sincerely,

Chris Penaranda
CIT Coordinator

Counselor-in-Training Program
2021 Application

Philosophy & Objectives
The CIT program is a fun and exciting experience for teenagers ages 13 and 14 who love children. The program emphasizes leadership, management, community service, safety and initiative.
Camp Site Directors and Assistant Site Directors mentor and prepare the CITs for the skills needed to become successful Camp Counselors. CITs can become counselors with the City of Palo Alto at the age of 15.

Leadership
CITs are taught methods of leadership during the mandatory training session, which will prove beneficial throughout the summer when CITs are asked to lead campers and staff in activities, crafts, group projects and more.

Behavior Management
CITs will be trained in a variety of behavior management methods, including child development, which will prove especially valuable in the field when they work with large groups of children. CITs will learn how to positively reinforce good behavior, how to set up age appropriate activities that limit opportunities for misbehavior, and how to appropriately address negative behavior.

Community Service
While having fun with kids and counselors at camp, CITs will earn Community Service hours!

Safety
Safety is one of the most important values introduced to CITs and they will learn how to keep children safe at all times.

Initiative
CITs will learn to take initiative with leading camp games and activities. This approach will ensure a fun and productive summer for CITs.

Staff
Participants will be under the supervision of Camp Directors. Assistant Directors and Camp Counselors will work directly with CITs. All activities will be closely monitored.

Counselor-in-Training Program
2021 Application

Fees

Training & 2 Week Session Fee: $205R/$235NR

Schedule

MANDATORY Training Session*
(must attend one of two)
Option 1: 6/9 - 6/11
Option 2: 6/23 - 6/25

Session 1
6/14 - 6/25

Session 2
6/28- 7/9**

Session 3
7/12 - 7/23

Session 4
7/26 - 8/6

*You must sign up for a mandatory training session in order to be eligible to work a camp session.

**No camp on 7/5

Participants are guaranteed one two-week session.

Any interest in additional sessions must be cleared with CIT Coordinator.

Counselor-in-Training Program
2021 Application

After you turn in this application, you will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule an interview.
Name *

First Name Last Name
Address *

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

City State

Zip Code
Phone Number *

Area Code Phone Number
Email *
example@example.com
Age *
Birthdate *

Month Day Year
Date
Grade in 2020-2021 school year *
Do you have transportation to Foothills Park? *

Yes No
Are planning to attend the Mandatory Training session June 9-June 11? *

Yes No
Are planning to attend the Mandatory Training session June 23-June 25? *

Yes No
Please answer the following questions and prompts.
Are you a new or returning CIT applicant? *
If new, why are you interested in being a CIT this summer? If returning, what valuable experience did you gain from last summer? *
Please detail any work and/ or volunteer experience you have. *
What is something you want to learn from this program? *
What qualities make you most suited to be a CIT? *
Set one goal for yourself as a CIT this summer. (Max 100 words) *

0/100