EQUESTRIAN ACADEMY

CHARTER SCHOOL

Statewide Feedback

Founders have received over 100 contacts, oral and written, from all corners of New Hampshire. Sixty-seven (67) people responded to a survey of equestrian organizations with 66 saying they supported the school. Forty-four (44) people indicated they knew a student who would apply.

We are sure that students will choose this school, if it is approved, and immediately upon receiving approval we will develop information packets to distribute to guidance counselors through the state.

This document includes only written narrative responses received. We have deleted personal information but have all the original responses.

Presented to the State Board of Education

February 2005

FEEDBACK FROM INTERESTED STUDENTS

“I would love to have such a great school in our state, I have always wanted to learn about horses in the hours I spend at school and if at all possible I would definitely want to attend this school.”

S.C.

Northfield, NH

“Wow! where is the school going to be located? you have this listed as year-round school, is a traditional school year an option? I am currently in 6th grade and will be entering 7th in the fall of 2005. has anyone else from my area responded (I'm thinking ahead of transportation issues)”

C.A.

Plymouth, NH

“Howdy, i don't actually know of a student, i am the interested student. This is something I would possibly consider. I am a 9th grader this 2004-2005 school year and currently I attend Lebanon High School.”

K.S.

West Lebanon, NH

“I am 13, being home schooled and taking college classes at the New Hampshire CommunityTechnical College in Laconia. I am very intrested in your Equestrian Charter School. I currently work at Robinson Arabians, and am training my two year old Arabian/Appaloosa (western, hunt, driving, ect.) I am also re-training my 10 year old Newfoundland pony western and her 6 month old filly.     I would gratefully appreciate being kept updated on your school, and hopefully will be able to attend.”

H.

Gilmanton, NH

“I am a resident of Laconia, NH. I attend Laconia High School unfortunately and I would very much like to attend your equestrain school. I have a few questions first but I have the utmost interest and would do nearly anything to attend. My parents would first like to know about location, or at least specific possibilities, and tuition or cost included. I have a license and I am willing to drive to the school. I am currently in 10th grade and would like to attend your 11th grade year. I am very much interested. I would also like to ask about expirience. I have been riding for just abotu a year now and have little expirience in comparison with others. But I am eager to learn and I enjoy riding very much. Thank you very much for your time.”

J.H.

Laconia, NH

“I'm interested in your charter school equine program. I found your website and am very interested. I enjoy horses and have four of my own. I love to ride and care for them and have had recent experience training a young 2 year old with my father. I enjoy mostly western and bareback riding. My father does most of our own veterinarian farrier work himself and i learn a lot helping him. I would be interested in a career working with horses. Would you kindly provide further information on your charter school. I am currently in 9th grade at Newfound Regional High School in Bristol, NH.”
G.C.
Bristol, NH

“i'm 16 and am currnetly homeschooled. I plan on graduating next year if credits are rightly done. and my interest in this school is i want to attend it. because the reason i'm homeschooled is do i can do some equine work and riding. its just so hard to find anything here. even tho there are alot of horses around it just seems no one in the school systems cared. they said that wasnt a proper carrer choice and you need to do reports on another topic..and i wanna help u guys support this school !”

J.J.

New Hampshire

“I think Having this school would be a Great idea. Even though im only 14 i love horses and im already thinking about going to college and take part in horse related subjects.” A.S.

Madison, NH

FEEDBACK FROM INTERESTED PARENTS

“We have contacted the above mentioned school in regards to our daughter possibly attending in the future. just wanted to confirm our enthusiasm and hopes that your school is approved. Thank you.”

M.F.

Swanzey, NH

“Our daughter has a true love for horses and has been involved with them for 4 years now. She has always dreamed of having a career working on a farm with horses, but has always been discouraged with the fact that all Equine based schools are in other states and are for college age students. My husband and I think this is a wonderful opportunity for Junior High and High School age kids to have such a unique opportunity to study what they love. We are definitely in favor of the New Hampshire Equine Charter School. Please consider our daughter as one of your students for enrollment for the opening 2005. Thank you.” C.Z.

Barnstead, NH

“My 13 year old daughter is very interested in the concept of the school and we would like to stay informed of the progress of approval.”

J.B.

Belmont, NH

“I am presently home schooling my two children grades 5 and 8 and we own our own pregnant mare and I have to say this is the best idea in years and they are learning a lot.. a equestrian school would be the very thing in the future for them.”

L.J.

Farmington, NH

“I have adopted a PMU mare from Live and Let Live Farm. I currently homeschool my oldest child but I think your idea for a charter school is wonderful. I only wish I could attend!!”

L.R.

Alstead, NH

“I have a daughter who would love this program. But within reasonable driving distance. Learned about charter school thru Live and Let Live Farm.” S.G.

Gilmanton, NH

“I just found out about the interest in opening an Equine Charter School. I know nothing about how a Charter School is established, but I am willing to help if necessary to get one of these school underway. My daughter would love to go to a school such as this and I would even be willing to work at the ground level to start one. We are avid horse people and own are own Percheron in the back yard. I run a Horse Home Care Business, which allows horse owners to go away on vacation and not worry about their horse care needs. Please contact me with more information on this subject. Thank you.”

J. P.

“I have a daughter in the 3rd grade and would love to see this be an option when she is of age. Her main interest in life is horses and it would be wonderful for her to be able to start at an early age to be educated in all possible careers concerning the industry.”

J.P.

Gilmanton, NH

“I am interested in learning more about the charter equestrian school. My daughter is in 4th in Keene Public Schools and a hunter/jumper rider interested in equine studies. We had been looking at Stoneleigh-Burnham for junior high and high school…”

D.D.
Keene, NH

“My daughter and I are very interested in this option for her complete education. Deanna is currently in her sophmore year at Alvirne High School, enrolled in their VetTech program. A horse-related career has been her dream for many years.”

B.C.

Hudson, NH

“We have a fourteen year old who loves to ride and has lots of experience with horses and their care and training. Hope to be able to have the opportunity to see this happen.”

D.A.S.

Richmond, NH

“Could you please send me so information about Equistrian school for my Daughter.” C.B.

Manchester, NH

“As things progress for your high school I would like to be kept up to date.   My daughter is now in 9th grade and I am sure that she would be interested in attending a high school geared more towards equine. Thank you.”

A.G.

“I attended Stoneleigh Burnham School. I loved it and feel fortunate to have attended. My daughter is 10 and would love the opportunity to attend an equestrian academy.”

L.R.

Spofford, NH

STATEWIDE WRITTEN SUPPORT

“This would be an awesome school, and NH should be #1 in the country to get it going. The horse industry has grown tremendously in the past several years in this state and here at Live and Let Live farm we would be more than happy to accept internships at Live and Let Live farm, Inc. and support your efforts for this school 100%. Horses teach so much to us humans to include patients, respect and spiritually, just to name a few.”

T.P.

Chichester, NH

“This school and it's programs are LONG overdue!”

C.A.B.

Wilton, NH

“I think this is a wonderful idea, especially for students who want to pursue an equine related career!!”

K.S.

Pittsfield, NH

“I support this school in our community. I would also like to offer my services as not only an avid, learned equestrian, but also as a certified K-12 School Counselor”

A.A.T.

Chesterfield, NH

“As an educator in the field of Horsemanship, I see a strong need for a school such as this.”

L.R.

Gilmanton, NH

“There has long been a need for a program like this. It will be a wonderful opportunity for many students who have an interest in a career in the field that otherwise would not have the exposure. It will also support the Equine services and spark some much needed growth in the industry.”

L.M.F.

Merrimack, NH

“I see a need for an equestrian oriented charter school. As past director of the UNH Equine Program, I have seen a continued interest and increased enrollment in students pursuing an equine studies major. Having a school of the type proposed, will be an excellent preparation for students planning on continuing their equine education. When students arrive at the University, many have had a riding background, but rarely have they had any classroom work in the field. I support the charter school plan of combining classroom and technical training. If I can be of any assistance, please contact me.”

J.B.

Northwood, NH

“I think this school sounds absolutely amazing! I am just sorry I missed it! I am a freshman a Lake Erie College in Painesville, OH and I am pursuing equestrian studies. I would eventually like to go on to Vet School. I would love to help in the creation of this new school. Keep me updated and let me know if you need any help!”

A.B.

Webster, NH

“Although I am not a resident of Keene, I wanted to send my support for the proposed Equestrian Charter School.  As a former horse professional (10 years experience), I saw the great growth in the services that surround equines, and I can only see that the industry will continue to grow exponentially.  It is wonderful that students may get to be introduced to this industry and perhaps get started on a rewarding career. I am also writing because I am currently pursuing a Master's degree in Education at Keene State College, and my focus is on English/Language Arts at the secondary level. I have a B.A. and an M.A. in English.  With my equine and educational experiences, I think that I would be a natural fit with your school.  Is it too soon to forward a resume?  If not, to whom may I send it?”

S.W.

Rindge, NH

“I have been living in Canterbury and Las Vegas over the last few years and will be coming back this summer to run a training program and stand my stallion at stud. I went to an equestrian high school and would love to share my experiences. I would be more than happy to assist in any way possible. In addition to completing my BA in Marketing I am working through my Equine Science A.S. I look forward to hearing more about your program.”

C.H.

Canterbury, NH

“I currently serve on the Board of Directors for Live and Let Live Farm horse rescus in NewHampshire. I also phtograph rescued horses and exhibit to benefit rescues as well as educate people on the need for horse rescue. I work with a lot of middle to high school age kids at the farm training them and there is a great deal of interest. I have a high sucess rate of fearful animals that respond quicker to a young person that they will to an adult provided the young person is getting the right training. Bravo to this program!”

T.G.

Concord, NH

“I think that it is a great Idea, I would like to be involved somehow, I am an Instructor, trainer, Mass Lic. instructor, with many contacts. Also, why so far north, you might have some luck in the southern part of the state.”

A.H.

Strafford, NH

“I would like to be on file as supporting an equestrian charter school. As a mother of four and a former employee of Chicago Youth Centers I can attest to the importance of not only a well balanced educational program but to offering a directive that is both interesting and sports related. So many children are not only ready, willing and able but hugely interested in horses, yet may not have the means or the proper understanding of equine care. They also may not be aware of the many athletic capacities these animals have to offer. Too often people purchase a horse with little or no understanding of the animal or its care. This proposed school is an excellent source of education for both the horse lover and the sports lover and I think it's high time a school of this type came to fruition. Best regards…”

T.D.

Pittsfield, NH

“… I am president of NH Arabian Horse Assn.  My past president e-mailed me a copy of your proposal which is to go before the town this evening. I live in the Lakes Region of NH have had Arabians for 18 years.  I feel that an Equestrian School would be a benefit to the horse industry.  There is so much that youth need to learn about the care and training of horses, plus the Joy that comes from not just owning a horse but from being around them.  They are therapeutic in many ways.  I for one would like to see a school of this nature in NH”

J.B., President

NH Arabian Horse Assn

“Thank you so much for your information on this program, what a wonderful opportunity for our students! In review of the basic format it seems there has been a wealth of energy and careful planning into the program. Is there an opportunity to attend one of your board/member meetings as an onlooker? Please let me know”

K.F.

Webster, NH

 
 
“I am writing in support of the proposed Equestrian Academy Charter School. Unfortunately, I am unable to attend the meeting scheduled for January 19 at 10 am in Swanzey.  Please advise how individuals and equestrian groups may express support this great idea.
Thank you.” 
L.S.
Arabian Horse Assn. of New England

“I think this is a great idea, and would like information on how I could be involved in this program”

S.R.

Laconia, NH

“I think this school would be a wonderful addition to young people with an equestrian interest. There is always much more to learn, and it would be a good direction for them to be in.”

S.T.

Meredith, NH

“This is the best idea that's hit education in the last hundred years! Thank goodness for forward thinkers.” L.D

Pittsfield, NH

“What a great opportunity! If there’s anything I can do in support of this, please let me know. Good luck!”

S.B.

Barrington, NH

“I would like to know more about it.”

Friend,

Amherst, NH

“I read with great interest about your idea for a charter school. I only wish I had such an opportunity when I was a student!! As a mother of four who attend private Christian school and the owner of three horses, this seems like an incredible idea. Good luck and I will follow the progress and offer support in any way I can.”

D.L.

Ashland, NH

“Hello, I am sending you this email to wish you success! I wish you had done this years ago when my daughter was a teen.”

G.B.

New Hampshire

“Although financially I am not in a position to be able to help -- I fully support this type of school. This would be a great opportunity for New Hampshire and I think this is a chance for students to learn in environment of which there is a lot of interest here in New Hampshire.”

B.B.

Canaan, NH

“I think this would be a wonderful addition to the state. I attended a boarding school that focused on riding located in Massachusetts. It was one on the most beneficial aspects of my life.”

K.C.D.

Candia, NH

“I think this is a wonderful idea and opportunity for our young people. I only wish this was around when I was in HS. NY city has had specialized HSs for years. I'm glad to see that there is a way to accomplish that in New Hampshire”

S.P.

Charlestown, NH

“think it is a graet idea! finally a place where kids can learn and be with horses! Learned about from live and Let live farm”

K.H.

Merrimack County, NH

“This sounds like a wonderful opportunity for students interested in equestrian careers who also want to excel academically! It has my support.”

G.A.C.

Northfield, NH

“I would like to just know more about it for now.”

Unknown

New Hampshire

“I would be curious to know where a proposed location would be? Would there be horses funded by the school, or would these students work locally with farms in the area the school would be located?”

H.S.

Dunham, NH

“I wholeheartedly support the opening of an equestrian-based school in NH, and have several nieces in Jr. High that would be interested in attending.”

K.M.

Pembroke, NH

“I think this is a great idea, I wish they had something like this when i was in school!”

J.L.

Dunham, NH

“Refreshing idea for students who do not fit more typical molds.”

C.S.

Littleton, NH

“Sounds like a great idea...good luck!”

P.M.

Dunham, NH

“Please send me information on the LOCATION for the equestrian charter school. I went to that site and it is vague with "lakes region"

M.M.

Plymouth, NH

“I wish there was something like this when I was in High School” D.P. Tilton, NH

“This is the first I've heard anything about the Equestrian Academy Charter School, sounds exciting, keep me in the loop, if there is anything I can do, I'd like to help.”

Friend

New Hampshire

“Would love to receive more information on this!”

B.F.

Lovell, ME

“I think this would be wonderful for the state and for the students attending this school. This should have been put into place a long time ago. Let me know if I can help. Thanks” J.P.

Brookfield, NH

“I think an academy would be very beneficial to this area.”

S.S.

Madison, NH

WONDERFUL/THOUGHTFUL LETTERS

Dear Dr.  Brian,

I found the Charter School on the net, and I just want to wish you luck. I’m a
professional horse trainer nearing retirement.  At this stage of my career I
have mostly hindsight in these matters, and it is refreshing to see someone
with some foresight.

The equestrian industry is a maze in my experience. It has so many segments,
and odd connections and separations.  As a young person, if you are not from a
family in the business, you can go down a lot of dead end roads while trying to
find your way. I think my career would have been a lot more coherent if I had
started with a greater understanding of what was possible, and some guidance on
how to achieve career goals in the industry.

An entrepreneur in this business needs a lot of diverse knowledge from real
estate to human relations, and cost accounting to medicine. The landscape of
potential curriculum must look pretty vast to you. I wish I had someone early
on to help me understand which areas were the ones where serious money could be
made or lost, where to focus my attention. I learned the hard way, like many
people of my generation in the industry.

One thing I have learned is that some of the college level programs I have had
contact with through their students and graduates are not very practical. I
know there are some good ones, but some teach the kids to decorate the cake
but not how to bake one. I read that you were forming some college
affiliations, so this is a word of caution.

Best of luck to you. You probably have plenty of guys like me up in NH (I was
born there) to give you a hand, but if you ever need some help, let me know. I
will if I can. We have a tack business, and when you get going we could show
our support by sending you a few things. I think it is a great idea. The school
will fill a real void.

Regards,

B.W.

Carlisle, Pennsylvania

Dear Dr. Brian,

The intent of this letter is to cast my support to an equine charter school in
New Hampshire.

I own an equine referral practice in NH situated on 110 acres. The
facility includes over 14000 sf of hospital/treatment area, another boarding
barn nearly as large, a 10 stall farrier/isolation barn, a 4 bedroom house,
and several smaller out buildings. A 280x76 ft indoor riding facility will be
constructed this spring. This should provide ample room for school
classroom/demonstration areas. A handicapped riding program is also planned
for the future.

Mrs. Georgene Sellinger introduced me to the charter school concept. I have
tremendous respect for Mrs. Sellinger as she has taught each of my 3 sons in
middle school, and she is an excellent teacher! I cannot think of any better.

Having taught many prevet and veterinarian students at the clinic and animal
science students at college (I taught an equine disease course for many years).

I have a keen appreciation for the need for quality education. I would assure
you that this program would be quality if I am involved.

Any questions may be directed to me at this email address.
Sincerely,
 <name> DVM

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Susan,
I am a pharmacist at in Keene. I have looked at the web site and the charter.  The proposal looks well thought out and promising. I have a son attending Monadnock High. My daughter will most likely enroll at Monadnock.

As far as funding, I am sure many parents would be willing to contribute to their child's education to attend a school of this nature.  There must be some horse loving entrepreneurs in NH that would love to see a school like this succeed in NH.

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Good Afternoon.
I just finished reviewing the information on your website, including your charter. I am a trial attorney. I am also a horse owner and enjoy competing in mostly local hunter/jumper shows in the spring-summer-fall.

I applaud your efforts to date in developing the concept and pursuing certification from the State for the charter school.  I am very interested in meeting with those working on the project and exploring how I might be able to assist in the endeavor/ become involved in the project.
You can reach me at work or at home….

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