Thomas Graham, who is the founder of White Rabbit Magic Camp and has a Master of Education, brings his passion for working with children into every part of the program. “I realized my dream job would be running a kids' summer camp where they could develop essential life skills in a fun and engaging way. Recently, we expanded by starting an after-school program at Foundations Academy, and it's been an incredible experience so far,” Graham shared.
“I often tell people this isn’t just a magic class — it’s a life skills class disguised as magic,” said Graham. “We encourage kids to put down their phones, make eye contact, and engage with the world around them.”
Much like the school’s Moral Focus virtues, the magic club revolves around a set of values called “8 Traits of a True Magician: Respectful, prepared, enthusiastic, confident, humble, creative, authentic, and giving.” Each session teaches children confidence, respect, and engagement while showing them how to perform a magic trick.
One of Graham’s favorite success stories is about a first grader who was too shy on day one to introduce himself in front of the group. “Fast forward three weeks, and he nervously but bravely stepped up, said his bit, and took a bow to applause from his peers,” shared Graham. “Watching him take that step was such a powerful reminder of why I do this — seeing these kids grow in confidence and share their magic with others is truly inspiring.”
The club offers two programs tailored to different age groups. Magic Explorers, for students in kindergarten through second grade, combines arts and crafts, games, and storytelling with simple magic tricks. Students in third through seventh grades participate in a more advanced Discover Magic program.
“A typical class involves introductions, a discussion on the Traits of a True Magician, learning and practicing a new trick, performing it for their peers, and leaving with a ‘Magic Mission’ to prepare for the next class,” explains Graham.
These “Magic Missions” are a key part of the program, encouraging students to practice their tricks and apply the day’s featured trait in their daily lives.
While the club doesn’t currently have a formal performance planned, Graham hopes to change that in the future. “Performing for an audience is a great way for kids to showcase their skills and build confidence,” Graham noted.
Great job giving learning a touch of magic!
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About Foundations Academy
Foundations Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Brighton, Colorado, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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