Students demonstrate grant-funded archery program at Patricksburg Elementary

Mrs. Hauser, an instructor at Patricksburg Elementary, told the Spencer-Owen board the school started its archery program last year with a grant and that local donor Joe Fry of Fry Towing sponsored a $500 startup shortfall.

"We received it through a grant," Hauser said. "...the start up cost of it...was $500. And Joe Fry with Fry Towing, he sponsored the extra $500 that Patricksburg needed to get the program going." She described the kit the school received—the 10 Genesis bows, arrows, repair gear, five targets and a net—and said the equipment allows up to 10 students to shoot at once under strict safety protocols.

Hauser walked the board through the program’s routine: waiting lines, marked toes-behind-the-line rules, whistle signals for "get low" and "shoot," and procedures for left-handed shooters (orange bows are reserved for left-handers). She said the program is inclusive of students with varying physical abilities, improves focus and self-control, and has seen strong student engagement with few disciplinary warnings.

Board members praised the demonstration; students Jasper and Rose participated at the meeting. Hauser said the district would like to expand the program to an after-school team that could compete regionally and nationally, and staff noted the elementary program is the first in the district to field NASP-style elementary participation.

The presentation concluded with the board thanking the students and staff; the board recorded no formal action on the program (it was an informational presentation).