The program, known as “Hooves and Paws,” is being hosted by TopCrest Stables in Zeeland and has already impacted over 30 children.
A pilot program implemented at a middle school in West Ottawa aims to create positive school experiences for students and offer unique opportunities they may not have had otherwise
While still in its early stages, organizers of the program believe it can greatly benefit students as they navigate the challenges of middle school life. Cortney Naber, a behavior interventionist at Macatawa Bay Middle School, emphasized the significance of taking students out of their comfort zones, stating, “Just getting them out of their element is definitely special.”
The initiative was inspired by the understanding that many students could benefit from positive experiences within the school environment. Allison Engeseth, a science teacher at the middle school and one of the program’s facilitators, expressed the belief that horses possess a unique ability to connect with individuals and provide emotional support. Engeseth noted, “There is just something uniquely powerful about horses. They are just empathetic animals.”
The program offers students the chance to interact with horses, an experience that may be entirely new to many of them. Students like Curtis Montgomery-Terrell and Le’Ara McSpadden shared their excitement about the opportunity. Montgomery-Terrell said, “I came in contact with horses before, but I never actually have been up and close and personal to one, so like this, it is very fun to be here and be able to do this.”
The interactions with horses provide a laid-back and non-classroom setting for students and allow educators to see their true personalities
Cortney Naber highlighted the importance of building rapport with students and letting them know they are cared for. Engeseth pointed out the numerous research-backed benefits of interacting with horses, including increased self-confidence and problem-solving skills.
The program organizers hope to secure full funding for the next academic year, with plans to run it as a semester-long program. They aim to bring a group of students to the stables on a monthly basis, providing ongoing exposure to the benefits of equestrian therapy throughout their middle school years. This innovative approach to education fosters real-life experiences that students are likely to remember for the rest of their lives, promoting a holistic and positive learning environment.
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