History

FROM A JUNKYARD TO A SCHOOL

Since 2001, we have been dedicated to providing educational and inspiring experiences for children and adults alike. Our passion for building community and cultivating creativity has driven us to offer a variety of programs, including weekend events, summer camps, and after-school programs. Our very first venture, Operation Junk, was inspired by the popular TV show Junkyard Wars (known as Scrapheap Challenge in the UK). We created a fun and educational challenge for children that included throwing machines, rocket-powered egg drops, racing machines, and a DIY waterwheel. Our challenges were not only a lot of fun, but they also provided valuable learning opportunities. We even had judges, just like on the TV show! We are proud to have inspired and engaged so many individuals through our programs over the years, and we look forward to continuing to offer unique and enriching experiences for years to come.

In 2013, we rebranded Operation Junk as Camp IO (Inner Science + Outer Science) and added the practice of yoga to our program. This addition was met with great enthusiasm from our camp families, as yoga provided a valuable opportunity to explore tools for reducing anxiety and increasing mindfulness. For several years, we held our summer camp at the Kahler Hall Community Center, but eventually, we moved to our own space at Hillside Court. This move allowed us to provide an even more immersive and enriching experience for our students, and we are proud to have created a welcoming and inspiring space for learning and growth.