Boyertown highlights special-needs fishing rodeo and graduation walk traditions as school year ends

District leaders used the June 10 Committee of the Whole meeting to review end-of-year events, including a special-needs fishing rodeo at the Rod and Gun Club and graduation walks where seniors visit their former elementary and middle schools.

Assistant principal Mark Hauck (identified as a Boyertown Area Senior High School assistant principal) described the special-needs fishing rodeo, a partnership that began in 2022 with the Boyertown Rod and Gun Club, noting more than 20 students participated and the club provided volunteers, stocked the pond, lunch and t-shirts. “We have, over 20 students that were able to participate this year, along with over 30 members of the Rod and Gun Club,” Hauck said, recounting the May 23 event and the group’s support.

Hauck thanked volunteers and named community partners; he noted a recent passing of a longtime club member and said donations in his memory could be directed to the special-needs fishing rodeo. Board member Nyman recalled sponsoring the program and said the club’s volunteers are background-checked and trained.

Superintendent Dr. Scott Davidheiser and district staff showed photos and a short video of graduation-week activities, including graduation walks that allow seniors to return to elementary and middle schools so current students can celebrate future graduates. “This does happen in all 6 of our elementary schools as well as our 2 middle schools,” said district staff member Mike Stout during the slideshow.

Administrators said the graduation-week traditions have returned after a missed year and that a new sports-inclusive leadership class at the high school may create student support opportunities for the rodeo in future years.

These items were presented as information; no action was required.