Archery Coming to Public Schools

If things go as planned, the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Foundation will initiate an Archery in the Schools Program in 10 pilot schools this fall, according to a spokesman.

The new program is a continuation of on-going efforts by the state Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to attract youth to a meaningful outdoor pastime.

National officials will be in Jackson next week to train and certify wildlife agency employees who will in turn train and certify instructors teaching the course. Pilot teachers will also be attending the training session.

Training will be held in the gymnasium of Northwest Rankin High School on Lakeland Drive.

"The Archery in the Schools Program is a sound program that provides expert instruction for pilot teachers, and followup support by individuals experienced in archery," DWFP Executive Director Dr. Sam Polles said.

"More important, the program teaches easy-to-perfect skills while providing young men and women with a pastime that can be enjoyed throughout their lives."