The Mane Link… An Equine Assisted Learning Program

To help disengaged middle school youth feel connected to school, while simultaneously encouraging student: Academic Achievement Mental Health Life Skills

State Standards will drive the curriculum in reading, writing and listening Character education skills will be an interactive process based on State Standards in reading, writing and listening. The following needs will be addressed: Organization and personal management in difficult situations Problem Solving using spatial information The difference between wants and needs Realizing that Power comes with responsibility Perseverance not perfection The following needs will be addressed: Organization and personal management in difficult situations Problem solving using spatial information Ability to partner and have empathy with others The difference between wants and needs Realizing that power comes with responsibility Perseverance not perfection (This program is being utilized in 42 states)

The youth identified by parent, teacher, counselor or self, who is having difficulty with: Self-Esteem Authority Academics Accountability These are students who are not working up to their capabilities, which are needed for success in his/her environment. The student’s attitude, actions, and reactions are not appropriate for their welfare.

This equine learning program includes numerous resources, some of which are Strides for Success and Character Counts. It was developed with the teaching experiences of Elaine Bailey and Kate Dunbar who together have 65 years of teaching adolescents. Together with horsemanship experiences these children are introduced to the crucial values of life. Citizenship Respect Responsibility Fairness Caring Trustworthiness

When: A session is held the first Saturday of each month. Where: Rolling Hills Ranch in Poway How: Transportation will be provided if the student cannot find a way. Why: As an 8th grade teacher, it is clear that some students need alternative character education skills. This involves an interactive process that students can easily transfer into their own lives to find success. E. Bailey

Truth always has a good face, though often Cowboy Words of Wisdom dirty boots A cowboy may not be rich, great or wise: but every cowboy is bound to be honest Crying about what’s not right is a waste of good tears There is no future in living in the past Mistakes are lessons to be learned Don’t tell me what you can’t do; show me what you can do. Cowboy Wisdom Mistakes are lessons to be learned Don’t tell me what you can’t do; show me what you can do.

Photos say it all…

“My grandson seems happier, more responsible, and his self-esteem seems to be improving. I am very glad to be involved in Strides to Success.” “We couldn't think of a less intimidating way to dig into troubled areas. We all had so much fun here.” Testimonials

Percentages say it all… This information is based on a classroom in the Indianapolis Public School System: 69% of the students had no suspensions during the school year According to pilot results, benchmark testing indicated student improvement in all measured areas of performance: Reading – 63% Writing – 75% Math – 57% Six students received honor roll distinction for the first time during the school year

Without these people, the program would not be evolving. I appreciate them so much… Ellen Kaye Gehrke, Ph.D. (Expert on Equine Assisted Learning) Debbie Anderson (Strides to Success, Authored book on Equine Facilitated Curriculum) Kate Dunbar, M.Ed. (Poway USD Home Health Tutor, Educational Therapist) Equine Learning Certified Stephanie Martin (Rolling Hills Ranch) Ray Spence (Accredited Horse Trainer Riding Instructor) Elaine A. Bailey, M.Ed. (Poway USD Teacher) Equine Learning Certified