INNISFAIL - More than three dozen volunteers are helping make the Innisfail Middle School ski program a success again this year, say participants and organizers alike.
The program started three years ago, offering students the opportunity learn how to ski at the Innisfail Ski Hill, officials said in a release issued Monday.
“I want to sincerely thank each parent, staff member, our volunteer ski instructors, and the individual people who open the Innisfail Skin Hill for us and support each student who arrives here,” said Innisfail Middle School teacher and ski program organizer Erin Holt.
“With these individuals we could not do what we do. Our program has grown because of the combined efforts of so many.”
Under the program, Grade 5 students visit the hill three times during January school days as part of their physical education classes.
The students learn basis skiing skills and receive coaching from volunteer instructors, who include some staff members from the school as well as community members.
Originally open only to Grade 5 students, the program has been expanded in 2024-25 to include Grade 6, 7 and 8 students. The higher grade students receive a single session at the hill.
There are more than 200 students participating in 2024-25, helped by four instructors, four community volunteers and 35 parent volunteers.
“I thought skiing would be scary but actually it’s pretty fun,” said Grade 5 student Lucas.
Fellow Grade 5 student Emily said, “I thought I would be just laying on the ground when I got there. It’s amazing. I love turning when I’m skiing down the hill.”
Parent volunteer Wade McAllister called the program great for the youngsters.
“Some of the kids can’t go to a mountain and spend hundreds of dollars to ski. They can come here and it’s affordable and it supports our local hill,” said McAllister.
