LPOHS, SOLE team up for program
SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille High School and Selkirk Outdoor Leadership and Education are joining forces to bring local students more educational experiences.
As part of the series of programs funded through a recently-acquired, nearly $1 million school improvement grant, school officials aim to give students a double shot of traditional academic lessons and personal growth projects — along with a healthy dose of the great outdoors.
“We live in a beautiful place, so we really wanted to take advantage of that,” said Geoff Penrose, LPOHS principal.
The partnership will begin this year with three day-long experiences for each student, plus one schoolwide event. According to Dennison Webb of SOLE, organization associates will be taking feedback throughout the year to continue developing the program for the next two years.
“I think this relationship is going to build into something really special,” Webb said.
An average day out in for a nature-based excursion might involve hiking or even canoeing or kayaking in the warmer months, Webb said. The idea is to introduce students to both the science and history of the regions surrounding their hometown. In addition, students will have to work together on projects to improve their interpersonal skills and ability to work well with others. Environmental awareness and outdoor proficiency are yet more abilities officials hope to develop through the program, which has been tailored to assist at-risk students.
“SOLE developed this entire program specifically for us,” Penrose said.
The outdoor-focused education approach is designed to improve personal characteristics as well. Instructors will encourage students to examine themselves critically to identify and build upon their personal strengths. Of specific interest is giving the students the emotional and intellectual flexibility to deal with challenges and develop a strong, resilient personality.
According to Penrose, the school is planning to offer at least three incentive trips to Schweitzer. Although it may be a staple of the Sandpoint lifestyle, Penrose said many LPOHS students are locked out of experience the ski resort for themselves.
“Unfortunately, there is a socioeconomic component associated with it,” he said.
Both the outdoor leadership and Schweitzer trips will likely require a little community assistance to get off the ground. The primary concern is outdoor gear — Penrose wants to make absolutely certain all students have waterproof clothing to keep them safe during any weather condition. If any residents have lightly-used or outgrown outdoor clothing of all sizes available, the school is happy to accept drop-off donations. Anyone with questions should call LPOHS teacher Randy Wilhelm at 263-6121.