Summer Camps Save Students in Santa Cruz | Tucson News

Tucson News Today | 2 Min Now | The Daily News Now! · Jul 10, 2026 · 1m

Hundreds of Santa Cruz County students are getting a free summer camp pass this year—thanks to a program nearly killed by a state funding freeze—offering vital storytelling and creative outlets that help kids like eighth grader Elias Pacheco thrive where traditional classrooms fall short. After a near-disaster last year when Arizona’s education funding was frozen, the camps were saved, but staff shortages still strain operations. Educators and parents alike praise these camps for building confidence and friendships, especially for shy or struggling students. With spots still open, this…