Our Story
Executive Director and GAP Camp founder, Sara (Swetish) Friedrichs, has had an extensive career in public education and summer camp outreach. After teaching 4th grade for six years, working at Texas A&M's Youth Adventure Program (YAP Camp) for over ten years, and opening her own private tutoring business, she soon discovered her true passion and calling. Acting on her vision, Sara 'bridged the gap' between her two passions, education and camp outreach, and created GAP Camp - a highly specialized summer camp for rising 5th graders designed to ease the transition into intermediate school. Inspired by her time in education and YAP Camp, GAP Camp was born!
First day of teaching - 4th Grade, 2016
First year of Friedrichs Tutoring, 2023
First year staffing YAP Camp, 2015
Through informal interviews with 5th grade parents, student data collection, and comparing the 4th and 5th grade TEKS, extensive preparation went into making GAP Camp highly specialized. While academics are essential for student success, Sara also believes in the importance of fun and lasting memories. That's how GAP Camp stands out -- with team-based competitions, engaging activities, and learning through play.
There were absolutely ZERO questions about who Sara would hand-select for the Directing Staff. She and Matthew Bowen had worked together at YAP Camp for 10 years, and while in college, she had the opportunity to observe Matt Ortega as he excelled in staffing various camps across Texas. In fact, Sara and Matt had always talked about staffing a summer camp together, and now that dream has become a reality!
Although they come from different backgrounds and have varied experiences, the 'Big Three' Directing Staff share several key qualities. They are passionate about teaching, dedicated to summer camp programming, and deeply enjoy collaborating to create unforgettable adventures and lasting memories for campers.