Newman Summer

Aaron Burns
Day Camp Director

Aaron Burns has been a full-time member of the Newman middle school PE department since 2016 and has served as the head varsity lacrosse coach since 2015. In addition to teaching, and directing camp, Coach Burns works in the admissions department overseeing Admission Outreach and 8th grade applications. Prior to coming to Newman, Coach Burns worked for 8 years as St. Andrew’s Episcopal School where he was the director and founder of St. Andrew’s “Cardinal Camp”. He has been working for Newman summer in various capacities for 5 years and absolutely loves camp life. Though born in New Orleans, Coach Burns grew up in the DC area before attending University of Georgia where he received and Honors degree in English Literature with a minor in Theater. He began his life in education by teaching Verbal English in Dao Xian China, before moving back to New Orleans for good.  

Coach Burns is thrilled to be back at Newman Summer where he gets to see so many kids express their personalities in such bold ways.

Monita Thomas
Assistant Day Camp Director

Monita has been at Newman since 2003. She has worked at summer camp for several years as an Age Group Head, Assistant Director of Pre-K/K and now serving as the Assistant Director of Newman Summer. When she is not working at camp, Monita is a Pre-K teacher where she instills a love of learning in her 4- and 5-year-olds. Monita graduated from the University of New Orleans with a bachelor's in Child and Family Development and later received her Master's in Curriculum and Instruction. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, sewing, quilting, baking, gardening, and walking. The best part of Newman Summer camp is getting to know the counselors and the campers.  

amazing camp counselors

Newman Summer Day Camp Counselors are the cornerstone of what makes camp a great experience for each camper. Our counselors bring an enthusiasm for experiential learning, the ability to foster strong relationships with campers, and the knowledge that teamwork makes the dream work. Each camp counselor arrives with a unique set of skills that are adaptable to the camp environment. With everything from knowledge of beadwork and sewing to a passion for culinary adventures and technological prowess; Day Camp Counselors help our campers dive deep into new activities. All Newman Summer counselors are of college age or above and exhibit good character and integrity. Our extraordinary counselors help campers stay safe, engaged, and active - both physically and mentally. They are positive role models who set a good example for campers and other staff members alike.