Pecos River Kids — Overview

The Shumla School is committed to providing hands-on, learning-by-doing educational programs to the children of our state. Pecos River Kids offers a wide range of programs for public and private schools and youth based organizations. According to the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (August 2001), environmental—outdoor education extends students' reach "beyond the traditional 'knowledge and skills' approach to education, with lessons that encompass feelings, beliefs, and actions. This comprehensive approach is a powerful tool for the social, emotional, and intellectual growth of students." Pecos River Kids will offer experiential educational programs to 4,000 children and 400 teachers across the state in 2004.

Program Goals

Our programs offer individuals an opportunity to shed cultural preconceptions and look beyond the taken-for-granted world. Students gain an awareness that as human beings we share the same basic needs, emotions, and ways of communicating that reveal the commonalities that link us all together. Individuals become empowered to take responsibility for their social and natural environment and begin to bridge the cultural and economic gaps that mark our society today.

Survival Skills
Programs focus on instilling life skills, self-respect, and self-discipline; empowering young people to move into a more hopeful future with new skills and knowledge to support them.

Problem-Solving
Programs on the history of land use in the region illustrate that successful entrepreneurship requires a flexible mind, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to adapt to changing situations.

Self-Esteem Building
Physically challenging activities such as canoeing, rappelling, and hiking help individuals see themselves as capable and powerful.

Community Building
Camp environments create communities where democratic leadership processes can be used to develop a sense of community.

Teamwork and Leadership
Through service learning, students gain important teamwork and leadership skills, while also applying their academic skills to tangible, transformative projects.

Mentoring
University professors, college interns, and teachers from local schools mentor students.

Improved Academic Performance
Students become more enthusiastic about learning through activities that engage their hands and minds and, at the same time, appeal to their personal interest.

Contact
For more information contact Craig Hensley at chensley@shumla.org or call 432-292-4848.