Hoofprints Program

Hoofprints began during the 2016-2017 school year.  We wanted to give students the opportunity to slow down, and enjoy spending more quality time with the horses.  What happened was magical, and we decided to continue with a permanent program.  This program is called Hoofprints because all work with horses is on the ground- there will be no riding.  It is designed to focus on the individual, with students working one-on-one with a horse during their time at the arena.  Hoof Prints is modeled after our TRRFCC Horsemanship Character Program, providing students the opportunity to strengthen character through a hands-on equine experience.  “TRRFCC” stands for Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. 

 

Students are bused from the CABS (Choices Affect Behavioral Success) Program in the Paradise Valley School District.  Being labeled ED (Emotionally Disabled) means these students have experienced trauma in their lives and struggle with appropriate relationships and socialization.  The program takes the classroom outside giving students the opportunity to interact and learn how to communicate with these very special creatures. Why horses? Horses are very intuitive and adept at reading our body language and interpreting our voice inflections.  Working with horses builds confidence and relationship skills in children that carry over to other areas of their lives.

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Hoofprints is made possible by the generosity of Horseshoe Trails Elementary in the Cave Creek School District.  They donate the use of their facility and supplies so other students in the community can have the same opportunity to work with horses.