- April 16, 2024
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The nature trail at Whispering Meadows Ranch received a few additions Friday, Feb. 24, thanks to Matanzas High School exceptional student education students and The Home Depot.
Students were visiting the ranch as part of a pilot work program, in conjunction with community partners.
With the help of Patrice Downing, a supervisor at The Home Depot, students installed a balance beam and two pull-up bars along the nature trail, at the ranch, which Austin Outdoor helped design.
The reason behind the community based learning program, Program Coordinator Kristine Aguirre said, is because of the demand for programs for older teens — mostly boys ages 18 to 20.
“We are really excited about this project and are thrilled the community businesses are involved,” Aquirre said. “I asked them to come out and just share with the kids what they do for a living. ... It’s just about interacting with the kids, and we’ve gotten great response because of that.”
The program offers something different from a traditional transitions program, said Matanzas teacher Frank Novak.
The opportunity for his students to use their hands has taught them teamwork and provided an environment they enjoy visiting.
However, the program is not funded. Students go to the ranch for free, and businesses volunteer their time and supplies.
Next year, Aguirre said, she is hoping for funding. But with the looming budget cuts, especially in special education, Aguirre said she is going to have to look to the community for support, instead of the schools.
Other community partners are Gamble Rogers Memorial State Park, Yellow Landscaping Co.’s Lisa Hall, Flagler County Extension Office Master Gardeners and Mike Striegel.
