Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Student Programs topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Saint Paul students win state climbing awards as district launches new program
Summary
Saint Paul introduced a rock-climbing team this year; students won top placements at state competitions and travel was supported in part by a grant that covered season fees estimated at about $500 per student.
Saint Paul Elementary and Secondary presented a new rock-climbing team to the board and celebrated state competition results. The team started practicing in October at Climb Bentonville and at outdoor sites; students took part in regional competitions and a state championship.
Teacher and coach Mr. Alexander described the program as a new opportunity for students, emphasizing safety and technique training. "It's so much mental growth as much as it is physically," Alexander said. Students who climbed competed on route difficulty and placements were awarded on overall performance; the board heard that the middle school boys' state champion was Preeke Wilson and that other students and teams placed in top positions.
Administrators said a grant helped cover participation costs, estimating roughly $500 per student for the season. The district also plans outdoor climbing trips in March, including Fitzgerald Mountain and the Horseshoe Canyon Ranch Arkansas Climbers Festival; staff said an additional grant from an outdoor program helped secure outdoor equipment for student use.
Board members praised staff and students for the initiative and the district said it will continue to support the program as it grows.
