2026 WYC Summer Program Registration will open March 1.

The Wellesley Youth Commission is excited to announce the 2026 lineup of Summer Exploration Programs! Get an insider’s view of the Town of Wellesley by participating in one of our engaging and hands-on summer opportunities.

All summer programs offered through the Wellesley Youth Commission are free for Wellesley resident youth and students attending Wellesley Public Schools.  Programs are for youth entering grades 6, 7, or 8 in Fall 2026. Programs are held at various locations throughout Wellesley.

Applications will open online beginning March 1, 2026. Students may apply to any of the Summer Exploration Programs; however, participants may attend only one program per summer.

A lottery will be conducted on April 1, 2026, and applicants will receive confirmation of placement in mid-April. After April 1, any remaining program openings will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis until all spaces are filled.

Fire Rescuers

Fire Rescuers is a week-long exploration program for 13 youth hosted by the Wellesley Fire Department. The program will run July 13 – July 17, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Program Highlights:

  • Experience a working fire department through hands-on training, including fire extinguishing, knot tying, water rescue, and more.

  • Participate in a field trip to a local Fire Academy.

  • Observe specialized demonstrations.

Participants will:

  • Develop teamwork and communication skills through group-based emergency response activities.

  • Build confidence as they learn and practice real-world safety and rescue techniques.

  • Gain an understanding of fire science, public safety careers, and emergency preparedness.

  • Strengthen problem-solving and critical thinking skills through scenario-based training.


Wellesley Eco Summer Program 

The Eco Summer Program is a week-long exploration for 13 youth hosted by the Natural Resources Commission and the Wellesley Conservation Council. The program will run July 27 – July 31, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This is a shine-only program. In the event of rain or severe weather, activities may be canceled for the day.

Program Highlights:

  • Participate in hands-on fishing demonstrations led by the Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game.

  • Learn wilderness survival skills, including fire-building techniques.

  • Explore environmental technology through drone experimentation.

  • Take part in kayaking, swimming, and shoreline restoration projects. (Participants must pass a swim test to participate in water-based activities.)

  • Discover how local organizations work to protect and preserve Wellesley’s natural environment.

Participants will:

  • Develop environmental stewardship and gain an understanding of local conservation efforts.

  • Strengthen teamwork and collaboration through group-based environmental projects.

  • Gain exposure to conservation careers and environmental science fields.

  • Enhance problem-solving and critical thinking through hands-on ecological activities.

  • Increase confidence, independence, and comfort in outdoor settings.


Wellesley Police Department (WPD) Youth Academy

WPD Youth Academy is a week-long exploration program for 13 youth hosted by the Wellesley Police Department. The program will run August 3 – August 7, 2026. Daily start times will vary between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., with dismissal at 3:00 p.m.

Program Highlights:

  • Learn about the role and importance of law enforcement within the community and beyond.

  • Participate in hands-on demonstrations involving radar operation, motor vehicle stops, mock arrests, and crime scene investigations.

  • Explore the collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

  • Participate in field trips to Boston-area law enforcement agencies, including the Massachusetts State Police.

Participants will:

  • Develop a deeper understanding of public safety, law enforcement responsibilities, and community partnerships.

  • Strengthen communication, teamwork, and leadership skills through interactive training scenarios.

  • Build problem-solving and critical thinking skills through mock investigations and situational exercises.

  • Gain exposure to careers in law enforcement and criminal justice.

  • Learn about personal safety, decision-making, and situational awareness.

  • Foster respect for civic responsibility and community service.


Registration will open on March 1, 2026