A Mahtomedi Community Education Ski Club that is close to 50 years old gives students an opportunity to explore downhill skiing while at the same time building connections with their peers and adult chaperones. This winter, the Club meets for four Friday nights at Trollhaugen. Students can choose to ski or snowboard, and the registration includes transportation, a lift ticket, and adult supervision.
Alongside the students on the slopes are older students, who provide leadership and help students explore the sport. Paul Beggin, a Middle School School Counselor, started the Club with Mahtomedi Community Education in 1976. It was originally an opportunity to learn to ski, and it culminated in a ski trip to the Western United States. Mr. Beggin shared this about the impact of the Club on students, “Ski club gives students the opportunity to find new friendships, practice leadership skills, and to be responsible for positive community interactions. Seventh and eighth-grade members serve as mentors for sixth-grade participants, and they are given the task of helping everyone have a fun and safe experience.”
Adults who supervise and chaperone the Club also provide another system of support for students to explore skiing and snowboarding. Beggin shared, “The adult chaperones are there to ski with the younger generation of skiers and to help when it is requested by a member. The program models how 60 and 70-year-old skiers can enjoy the same activity together with Middle and High School students.” Many of the adult chaperones have children who have graduated, but they continue to give back, like Jim and Judy Deans, Bob Parker, and Patricia Schaber. Patricia's grandson is now a participant in the program. Our students also have the support of Mahtomedi alumni who chaperone, like Taryn Bolea Klopp and Kelly Lane. We are grateful to the many chaperones, including parents, who help our students explore this passion area and make it a joyful experience!
Click here to see photos of the Ski Club in action this year.