#50 School
AHF is so proud of all # 50 school 5th grade students who participated. The program provided for about 30 students, in groups of 10 for 10 weeks each, the opportunity to be on a farm and learn to care for and ride horses.
When Lelian, Leora, Grace, Lodan, Norma Jean and Ja’manny (students in the last group) were asked what they like best about coming to the farm they always said “riding a horse”. Several mentioned “caring for a horse,” “getting it ready to ride,” and “having fun”. On this final day children tacked their horses, practiced the basic skills: mounting, proper sitting and holding reins, controlling and guiding their horse in the outdoor riding ring. This was followed by a trail ride, removing tack and turning out the horses to pasture. An informal review with children of what they learned and refreshments ended this last session.
Several of the students will be returning this summer to participate in the four week horsemanship camp. There are plans for the program to continue next school year.
The program was possible through the leadership of Lakisha Taylor, principal of # 50 Helen Barrett Montgomery School. Tara Cole, teacher and experienced horse woman, supported the students throughout the 30 weeks.
Edison Career and Technology High School
Students from Edison Career and Technology High School had the opportunity to participate in a specially designed program to encourage their increased interest in attendance and academics. The plan was to have them come to the farm for four hours weekly and participate in horse care, learning to ride, a focus on literacy and building relationships.
Villa of Hope
A Horse’s Friend has collaborated with Villa of Hope, a diversion program, for several years. The goal of this program is to provide these students with the structured recreational program that AHF offers. About 100 students might be served throughout the year in late afternoon six week sessions.