On March 29, Adaptive P.E. visited Jones County Animal Services for a service-learning project conducted by student teacher, Harley Robinson. Prior to the field trip Ms. Robinson taught the partners and athletes about safe foods and harmful foods for dogs. Partners worked with athletes to make homemade dog treats to take to the shelter. The treats were made of pumpkin, peanut butter, carrots, oats, eggs, and bananas. After the ingredients were mixed, they were cooking a bone shaped waffle maker.
On the day of the trip Animal Control Director Jennifer Allen greeted us with her staff members. She explained to our partners and athletes what to except when they walk in the back to the kennels. Ms. Jennifer was so kind to our students and was aware that some of our students are sensitive to loud noises. She explained that if they are sensitive to loud noises that may want to consider visiting the cat side of the shelter, as it is much quieter. Each of our students had the opportunity to interact with either a dog or cat. All our students enjoyed the interaction just as much as the animals!
For those who might be wondering what Adaptive physical education is, it is a collaborative class of regular education students (partners) teamed with physical Special needs students (Athletes). The purpose of the adaptive P.E. class is to bring awareness, and to work towards a common goal for all students and educators involved. The class is taught by two special education teachers Colleen Powell and Harlie Sharp, and one physical education teacher, Brad Miles. Typically, we participate in physical activities that are modified to meet the needs of each athlete. While this was not a physical activity that would usually be held by a P.E. class, it was a calming activity for them. Interacting with a friendly pet can help many physical and mental issues. It can help reduce blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. It can also release endorphins that produce a calming effect. This school years Adaptive P.E. class is made up of athletes Dylan Davis, Isaac Sukram, Elizabeth McCoy, Chloe Becker, Harrison Raasveld, Ny’irah Greene, Madison Barfield and partners Kennedie Dyer, Skylar Hobby, Gracie Jones, and Brynlee Vaughn. – Contributed
