From Jaime to You

Just wanted to let you guys know who has contacted me so far. Those who have stars are the ones who have given the questions back to me.

1. Alie Reindel
2. Caitlin Gager*
3. Meagan Daniel
4. Erin Hagen
5. Julie Batelli*
6. Emily Krempholtz*
7. Margy Lowe*

So far it looks as though we'll have an interested bunch.

This Year is About Choices

As you know, each year we modify certain aspects of the Sprucelands riding program. This year we are going to run things a little differently in respect to assisting and instructing lessons.

We know that last year many of you were interested in assisting lessons and  so would like to develop your teaching skills.

As a result of the peaked interest  in teaching, we have decided to develop a system of bringing along those of you who would like to become effective riding instructors.

If you have no interest in teaching but would like to help in the barn…. no problem! We will work with you wherever your interest lies.

This year is about choices, and dedication to those choices.  

Sprucelands Riding Instructor and Barn Manager Development Program

Teaching well rounded lessons is very demanding and requires more knowledge than most experienced riders have. The reality is that many instructors start out y watching other more experienced instructors in order to develop different teaching techniques.

As you are probably aware, there are subtleties in riding that require a trained and discriminating eye that needs to be developed.  Many instructors will tell you that you should constantly further your knowledge of the sport in order to be an effective teacher. The most effective way of doing that is by going to clinics and observing or riding. However, one of the cheapest ways of developing your eye is by watching lessons, or going to horse shows and sitting by the schooling ring. It’s very interesting what you’ll hear. 

Eileen, Alison and Jaime Involved

This summer, those of you who are interested in teaching will have more guidance. Eileen, Alison, and I are working on an Instructor Development Program that will touch on certain aspects of teaching lessons that have not been addressed in previous years. 

Additionally, I understand that some of you are not interested in teaching at all and would rather be in the barn. This year we are giving you some flexible choices. Right now, I would like to start speaking with those of you interested  in our Instructor and Barn Manager Development program.

Contact Jaime ASAP

My e-mail is jmsawka27@yahoo.com. Please e-mail me a very short 'hi.' Include your mailing address, and your name of course. I have a questionnaire that will help us determine where you are individually, so we can be prepared to help you in your quest. 

Be forewarned that instructing and managing the barn is work, but also very rewarding. I hope that this program is also something you can put on college applications, and job resumes. I am very excited for this summer and hope that  you join me with your enthusiasm!

Can’t wait to hear from you!

Hugs! Jaime