By Andrew Gulyas

A big thank you to the communities in the Elk Valley.

Elkford Secondary School’s PE program has been out in the valley exploring the Elk Lakes, picking chicken eggs, climbing Castle Mountain and skiing/snowboarding in Fernie as well as rock climbing in Cranbrook.

Students have also been exploring active living activities in their own community, everything from skating and curling to hiking, cross-country skiing, stewardship projects and survival activities. The program has also been expanding out of the conventional gym activities and into active living programming that is specific to the East Kootenay.

Physical Education specific to the region, which is hoped to support a life of active living and community building in the valley and beyond.

This PE program can only be done with local and community support. Everything from rock climbing at Arq climbing gym in Cranbrook, skiing and snowboarding at Fernie Alpine Resort and trying a local public gym at Rockhard Fitness in Elkford. These community businesses have all given considerable discounted school rates to make neighbouring adventures affordable.

Within the school’s residing community, the District of Elkford (skating/curling/baseball), and Elkford Nordic Society have all allowed students onto their facilities and trails at no cost, further entrenching a sense of affordability and inclusivity for all student in the program.

There have also been holistic opportunities for stewardship within the community; the Elkford Trails Alliance, Elkford Nordic Society and the Wapiti ski hill have allowed students to build/maintain trials, stain/paint cabins and clearing brush, truly allowing students an opportunity to connect and build their community.

There have also been other very supportive and generous local groups that have contributed, such as, the Elkford Lions Club, the Elkford United Steel Workers, and the Parent Advisory Council. All helping financially for transportation and fees for the many activities that we do.

We have also been graciously supported by the Elkford Project Society, Columbia Basin Trust, Elkford Nordic Society and Sparwood Thrift Store (Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society), who have contributed financially to the programs’ cross-country skis and access to camping equipment.

Thank you to the communities and organizations that have allowed the Elkford Secondary PE program to grow and their support in local, life long, active living activities and community building. Thank you to the students for their resilience and willingness to try.

Finally, thank you to the parents that make sure their students are ready for the many adventure’s students have succeeded in. Great hustle everyone!

Photos by Andrew Gulyas

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