Upper Columbia Academy (UCA) in Spangle, Wash., is thrilled to announce the opening of the Palouse Equestrian Center located on the campus. UCA began work on this project last summer. About 22 acres were fenced in, and pasture grass was planted. Outdoor shelters were built to keep the horses out of bad weather, and an indoor riding arena is under construction. The arena will provide space for students to ride and be with their horses all year.
UCA is working to develop a horsemanship class that will be taught as an elective next school year. The equestrian center will operate year-round with summer day-camps offered to the community in June and July.
Sarah Holloway, equestrian director, oversees the start of this new program. “I am thankful for the opportunity to work in this unique position and for the support this new program has received,” says Holloway. An unexpected blessing was provided when a family donated enough equine-related items — including round pin fencing, heated troughs, saddles, blankets, bridles and gear — to fill up a truck and trailer.
“The goal of this program is to offer hands-on learning that is unique to UCA,” states Eric Johnson, UCA principal. “It is important that we continue to look at new and creative ways to educate students at Upper Columbia Academy.”
Holloway is excited about the future of this new endeavor. “An equestrian program evokes excitement in people from around our local community and our UCA family in a wonderful way," she says. "I absolutely love seeing eyes light up the first time someone gets up on a horse. I have seen and hope to continue to see horses and the love of horses bring people together, give students an outlet from school and teach a variety of life lessons.”
Julie Hagele, UCA teacher, and Eric Johnson, UCA principal
Sarah Holloway, horsemanship director, saddles up for the expanding equestrian program at UCA.
Palouse Equestrian Center saddle bay was filled by a generous donor.
Eric Johnson (far right), volunteer students and staff spouses unloaded a trailer full of donated gear and fencing.
Sarah Holloway, horsemanship director, saddles up for the expanding equestrian program at UCA.
Sheyenne Dubnya and horse Maggie both board at UCA.
Sheyenne Dubnya and horse Maggie both board at UCA.
The Palouse Equestrian Center Arena will be constructed on the north side of Spangle-Waverly Road.
