Meet Jaclyn Boyce
I feel so lucky to be part of the Camp Big Heart family and to do work that means so much to me. My journey in special education began at the University of Georgia, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, and later continued with a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a Specialist’s degree in Special Education.I spent 15 years teaching special education in Gwinnett County, supporting students with autism, mild intellectual disabilities, and severe/profound disabilities. During that time, I also served as a special education department chair and county mentor teacher and was honored as a Gwinnett County Teacher of the Year semifinalist.I also spent two years working with adults with special needs in a day program, where I planned fun, hands-on activities much like a day camp—reminding me that learning, growth, and fun don’t stop when school ends. When I’m not at camp, I’m a mom of two and love helping plan hands-on, memorable activities for their school community—keeping that same “camp mindset” going all year long!I’ve been with Camp Big Heart since 2009 and currently serve on the support staff team, helping plan camp, develop staff orientation, and support unit leaders, volunteers, and campers throughout each session. I also make sure we meet and exceed all American Camp Association standards to maintain our accredited, high-quality program. Camp Big Heart holds a special place in my heart, and I am honored to support a program that celebrates abilities, fosters independence, and creates lifelong memories for campers and families.
It’s hard to put into words just how much Camp Big Heart means to me. Working with people with special needs has always been my passion, and camp gives me the opportunity to create new and meaningful experiences that truly make a difference in their lives. Each summer, I get to help campers explore, learn, laugh, and grow—and there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing them form friendships, gain independence, and have the time of their lives.Camp is a place like none other. Over the years, I’ve formed lifelong friendships with staff, volunteers, and campers alike. It truly feels like family, and together we create something so special every session—a space where everyone belongs, is celebrated, and can thrive. Every decision we make is for the campers; our goal is always to provide them with the best, safest, most joyful experience possible, almost like a vacation where they can just be themselves and explore their potential.For me, Camp Big Heart is more than just a job or a summer tradition—it’s a community, a mission, and a source of joy that I carry with me year-round. Being part of it is an honor, and there’s nothing I love more than seeing the campers’ smiles, hearing their laughter, and knowing we helped create moments and memories that will last a lifetime.
– Jaclyn Boyce
Support Staff