The cost of 10 Student Fly Fishing Outfits (including reels, rods and backing) from Trout Unlimited is $824, including shipping and <a target="new" href="http://www.donorschoose.org/html/fulfillment.htm" onclick="g_openWindow('http://www.donorschoose.org/html/fulfillment.htm', 300, 800, 'fulfillwindow');return false;">fulfillment</a>.
I have the privilege of teaching physical education to the best elementary school kids around! My kids are poor. Their families struggle to provide food and clothing for their children and live from paycheck to paycheck, often-needing assistance to pay their bills. Over 93% of our students are on free or reduced lunch. Many of our kids have not been exposed to or have not learned an appreciation for "lifetime sports" because the family and neighborhood structure that nurtures this kind of experience is virtually nonexistent.
Hooked? “On The Fly” is a program that will introduce 4th graders to fly fishing and put them in direct contact with nature. This includes the art and science of casting, fly tying, knot tying, stream entomology, and environmental stewardship. Through these activities, our kids will practice gross motor skills, fine motor skills, artistic creativity, and problem solving as well as gain knowledge and awareness of our community's natural resources. It is a positive social activity that can continue throughout their lifetimes.
We live around some of the most beautiful trout streams in the southeast. A group of local fishing enthusiasts are willing to donate their time and expertise to teach our kids the art of fly fishing. We have access to fly tying equipment. We have the backing of our principal and enthusiastic support of our parents. What we need is funding to purchase fly fishing rods.
Our needs are:
10 fly rods made by Cortland designed specifically for youth. To run our program, we will use flies donated from local fly shops, borrowed fly tying equipment, and volunteers donating their time.
Through “On the Fly,” our students will be exposed to the wonders of nature found just outside their back doors. They will interact with adults who assume the position of positive role models and stewards for land and water conservation. Our students will develop self-esteem as they experience success in creating their own fly, learn to cast and to catch fish, as well as understand the water being fished. These activities promote both mental and physical activity.
Hey, let's not fool ourselves, the best reason to involve kids in this program is to give them a fun experience outdoors. I want to get them hooked for life!
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Matthews and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
