Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA): Camps and Institutes

A summer exploration of the arts for elementary school students currently in grades 2-5.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for elementary-aged students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four classes every day related to dance, music, theatre, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create classes that are fun and engaging.

  • Program Cost: $265
  • Program Dates: Weekly, July 8-26
  • Program Times: 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
  • Location: Lake Braddock Secondary School

Eligibility

Open to students in grades 2-5 during the 2023-24 school year.

All students are welcome:

  • FCPS students.
  • Students enrolled in private schools.
  • Students who are homeschooled.
  • Non-Fairfax County residents.

Classes and Daily Schedule

Students have four classes every day. There is one, 70-minute class in dance, music, theatre, and visual art every day. 

Spark Your Imagination: An Adventure in Storytelling!

Ready for an Adventure in storytelling? Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a three-week adventure of fun through the Arts!

Week 1: Earth's Song - Sing with the Planet!

This week, we'll become eco-detectives while learning how to tell stories that celebrate our amazing planet!

Art: Design "trash monsters" from recycled materials! Give them personalities and backstories based on pollution problems. Then, write songs and skits to show how to defeat them!

Music: Create and explore "nature soundtracks" for different habitats – rainforest rhythms, desert wind songs, ocean symphonies.

Theatre: Create a drama and role play where trees, rivers, and animals address and encourage responsible treatment of our planet!

Dance: Choreograph movements inspired by endangered species through song connected to nature.

So, are you ready to unleash your inner storyteller? This incredible journey awaits, where imagination takes flight and stories come alive! Let's paint the world with images, movement, and music, and discover the magic that unfolds when we share our voices!

Week 2: Around the World - Exploring Cultures through the Art!

Get ready to hop on a magic carpet and soar across continents! This week, we'll dive into the treasure chest of stories from cultures near and far!

Art: Design mythical creatures from around the world or create vibrant masks for cultural celebrations.

Music: Learn traditional folk songs from diverse cultures and perform them with instruments or body percussion.

Theatre: Put on a mini festival showcasing folktales and legends from different countries!

Dance: Learn international folk dances! From the flamenco of Spain to the bhangra of India, each dance tells a story through movement. Explore the world with every step!

So, are you ready to unleash your inner storyteller? This incredible journey awaits, where imagination takes flight and stories come alive! Let's paint the world with images, movement, and music, and discover the magic that unfolds when we share our voices!

Week 3: Storytellers Unite!

This week we'll join forces with our peers to tell our stories! We'll write, act, sing, and dance our way to the grand finale, where our masterpiece comes to life! 

Art: Build a giant collaborative mural! Each person paints a scene or character that connects to the story you're creating. Watch the whole tale unfold on the wall!

Music: Compose a group song! Start with a simple melody and let everyone add their own verse, instrument, or sound effect. Create a story through music together!

Theatre: Improv storytelling! Take turns making up lines and scenes based on audience suggestions. Let your imaginations run wild and see where the story takes you!

Dance: Choreograph a group flash mob! Learn a short, fun routine and surprise everyone with a burst of storytelling through movement in unexpected places!

So, are you ready to unleash your inner storyteller? This incredible journey awaits, where imagination takes flight and stories come alive! Let's paint the world with images, movement, and music, and discover the magic that unfolds when we share our voices!

Lunch

Students will have a 30-minute lunch break every day. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

Transportation

There is bus transportation from select FCPS high schools and middle schools outside of the Lake Braddock Secondary School pyramid. Transportation to and from these schools is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Transportation information will be communicated to families prior to the start of the program.

Contact

[email protected]

Refund Information

Refund requests must be submitted online. Please see Full Refund Details for additional information and deadlines.