Each spring, college students are given the opportunity to apply to become an instructor for the Summer Horsemanship School Program. Those that are interested are then required to attend the weekly riding sessions, which help to educate the applicants on the format and information presented at the Summer Horsemanship Schools. Each riding session is led and managed by Teri Antilley, Horse Program Specialist I, with help from Dr. Dennis Sigler, Extension Horse Specialist. Riding sessions are meant to give the prospective instructor time to learn how to teach various maneuvers in an easy-to-understand format, while maintaining a positive atmosphere in a professional manner.
Half-way through the semester, those serious about teaching are then evaluated by performing a pattern that includes each maneuver they have been taught. In addition, they must also teach and demonstrate an assigned topic. Evaluations are reviewed by a committee and decisions are made as to who will be officially hired. The students hired will continue to ride the remainder of the semester, to sharpen their skills in teaching and in working as a team to accomplish common goals. The assignment of partners and schools is made known toward the end of the semester and is based on compatibility of horses ridden and the riding and teaching abilities of each student. Before going out on the road, the students spend a week in an intensive training situation, in which they become as familiar and comfortable as possible with teaching the material and solving problems that may arise.
Students that participate in the program will be able to sign up for 485 credits for the spring riding sessions. Those students that are officially hired will be able to obtain additional 485 credits for teaching in the summer, in addition to being paid.
| 2012 Fall Informational Meeting – Monday, November 19, 2012 |
| Application Form |
