CENTREVILLE – Queen Anne’s County High School is proud to announce a groundbreaking achievement by its students in the newly introduced Outdoor Adventure course. With the overwhelming support of their teacher, Mrs. Holly Woodward, and our community partners, the students have not only embraced the challenges of outdoor activities but have also excelled in achieving their Maryland boating safety certification.
In an exceptional display of achievement, 100% of the students enrolled in the Outdoor Adventure course have earned an impressive overall class average of 92%. This remarkable accomplishment highlights their successful completion of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) approved boating safety course, resulting in each student obtaining their Maryland Boating Safety Education certificate.
Unlike traditional physical education courses, the Outdoor Adventure curriculum immerses students in a diverse array of outdoor experiences, ranging from fishing and archery to camping and survival skills. The course emphasizes safety as a paramount concern and was designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills for safe outdoor exploration. This is the first year QACPS is offering the course as a physical education elective that integrates the Maryland Environmental Literacy Standards.
“We are immensely proud of our students’ outstanding achievements in the Outdoor Adventure course,” remarked Michael Page, the QACPS Supervisor of Physical Education. “We are very excited that QACPS can provide students this opportunity and believe that this program not only fosters enjoyment for the outdoors but also equips our students with essential skills.”
Under the guidance of Mrs. Woodward, students were provided invaluable opportunities to collaborate with local agencies and explore various aspects of outdoor safety. From understanding severe weather gear, reading and interpreting a nautical chart, reviewing various types of personal floatation devices, looking at boating safety equipment, what to do in an emergency, and having the opportunity to tie various boating knots on stationary practice cleats, each student was equipped with practical skills and knowledge essential for navigating outdoor environments safely.
The success of the Outdoor Adventure course owes much to the dedication and expertise of its collaborative instructors, including professionals from the Department of Natural Resources, Natural Resource Police Reserve Officer, United States Coast Guard Auxiliarists, and a Past Commander and current member of the United States Power Squadron, Kent Narrows Squadron. Their invaluable contributions and real-life examples have not only enriched the curriculum but have also left a lasting impact on the students.
“Queen Anne’s County High School extends its gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the Outdoor Adventure course and the student’s certification,” stated Dr. Billie Brice, the Academic Dean at QACHS. “Through their collective efforts, our student’s lives have been enriched, paving the way for responsible and adventurous outdoor enthusiasts.”
Looking ahead, QACPS is excited to continue offering dynamic opportunities for students to explore the great outdoors. QACPS remains committed to nurturing the adventurous spirit and educational growth of its students and providing them with opportunities to further experience the outdoors safely and responsibly.
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