To join the Winona staff an applicant must be 19 years old or completing their freshman year in college. The exception to this rule is Winona CIT graduates may become staff members when they are 17 and 18 years old. Staff applicants must complete an application, which includes the names of two references. All staff applicants will also have an interview, usually with the camp director. At times the interview may be conducted by alumni depending on the location, or by phone. Winona does not discriminate. Our staffing positions are limited by activity coverage and housing; all tent counselors who spend the nights in the tents must be male. Limited positions are available for female staff members.
Certifications
Counselors may be required to obtain certifications depending on their activities. Certifications are also a way for staff to earn additional money, as staff with current certifications are paid an additional stipend. Certifications are obtained from a variety of agencies, including the American Red Cross, Wilderness Medical Associates, US Sailing and the state of Maine. Most of the staff certification courses take place during the month of June and are held at Winona. Some staff may obtain certifications over the off season at school. Winona will pay for certification courses which are job related, but this does require approval before the course is taken. A complete list of the Winona training clinics are listed on the Training Clinics page.
Staff Training and Orientation
Staff Training begins a week prior to the camper’s arrival and is required of all staff. Staff orientation gives the staff an opportunity to work as a team before the arrival of campers. A great deal of time is spent preparing activities and organizing lesson plans. Orientation also includes training in the many other areas involved in the Winona Experience. This includes Tent Counseling, Risk Management, Group Dynamics, Transportation, and various emergency procedures. Pre-camp is not all work, learning how to conduct a successful evening program includes a staff game of King Pin Dodge Ball, Basketball and Ultimate Frisbee. As opening day approaches, the Winona and Wyonegonic staffs enjoy an evening social, which includes the tapping of the BATs for the upcoming season!
Staff Training is on-going throughout the summer. At various times Lifeguards are provided a chance to practice their skills, or a group of activity staff get together to discuss different techniques.
