ABOUT | Becoming You

ELEVATE YOUR SUMMER

CAMP EXPERIENCE

Becoming You is more than just a summer camp. Led by seasoned teachers, Megan and Julia focus on emotional intelligence and community building, all while having a blast! Your child's uniqueness will be celebrated. Becoming You Summer Camp is designed to ignite growth and foster empowerment in your child. Through a blend of enriching activities, games and personalized guidance, we cultivate confidence, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging, ensuring your child thrives under our care.

Give your child a fun and safe place to grow this summer!

Meet the Camp Facilitators

Megan and Julia are a dynamic duo with a combined 36 years of experience with children. They are exactly who you want caring for your children this summer!

Instructional Coach for Teachers

Julia Sumler

With two decades dedicated to elementary education, Julia brings a wealth of experience from her tenure within the Mesa Public Schools system. Over 14 years, she honed her teaching skills in 1st grade, followed by an additional two years in 3rd grade. Currently serving as an Instructional Coach in Mesa, Julia draws from her extensive background to contribute meaningfully to educational development. She provides training sessions to for teachers on building community in classrooms and helping children grow into their truest self.

Married and a mother of two girls, Julia knows the importance of establishing an inclusive and supportive environment that children want to attend. There is nothing worse than signing your child up for a camp and then having them complain about going! Her vision is to create a space where children can freely explore their interests, cultivate essential life skills, and uncover their passions while having fun. As an advocate for teamwork, creative exploration, and a sense of adventure, Julia aspires to lead a camp brimming with growth, laughter, and cherished memories.

Education

BA in Elementary Education

MA in Bilingual Multicultural Education

MA in Early Childhood

Arizona State University and

Northern Arizona University

Private School Owner

Megan Smones

Megan has always been driven to pursue a career in education. She believes that children are our future. Throughout her college years, she delved into educational theory, pedagogy, and child development. It was apparent she picked the right path!

Following her college journey, Megan dedicated eleven years to the public education system, teaching both upper and lower-level elementary students. Megan's contributions included designing, implementing, and overseeing a large Summer School program, where safety, collaboration with families, and the creation of enjoyable programs were priority. She ended her time in the public sector in May 2021 as an Assistant Principal in the Deer Valley Unified School District.

Megan owns a private school in Scottsdale, Arizona. She provides personalized education in a 1:1 setting. Opening Becoming You Summer Camp, with Julia Sumler, her esteemed colleague, and friend, is a culmination of their expertise, ensuring a summer program that not only educates but also engages children and earns the trust of parents.

Education

BS in Elementary Education

MA in Educational Leadership

Northern Arizona University

Becoming You Community Guests

We believe in connecting our campers with the community. We have a rich and diverse group of guests that come to camp and bring activities to help our campers grow!

Last summer we had over 30 guests enrich our campers experience! Here are some of them.

Jessie Brendemuhl, Neuro Happy Art

Jessie, owner of NeuroHappy Art, built an art class business based on the belief that everyone can benefit from art. As an experienced teacher, artist and leader in education, Jessie has had the pleasure of helping students of all ages and skill levels discover their own unique talents. She specializes in giving neuro diverse students safe spaces to express themselves with mentors that understand how they function. We are thrilled to have her join us!

Nycole Leyba, The Runner Mama

Nycole has always been fascinated by the great human potential that lies within all of us. She believes running breaks down walls, unites people, and builds bridges within communities. As a community advocate, she has spent time volunteering providing youth running programs in under-served neighborhoods helping others discover their own great human potential through the activity of running.