Certificates

Equestrian Program

 Responsibility Certificate

  1. Consistently grooms horses thoroughly and alerts an adult if there are any health concerns.
  2. Possesses good communication skills regarding scheduling (contacting staff if they will be absent from programming or late, returning field trip slips on time, etc.), as well as being punctual with good/consistent attendance.
  3. Proactively checks the Mentor List, offers support in the barn when needed, and/or consistently stays focused and motivated.

 Confidence Certificate

  1. Demonstrates the ability to work independently and executes tasks that benefit the physical environment, the horses, and/or the program.
  2. Develops and teaches a riding skill lesson under staff supervision.
  3. Overcomes fears and encourages others to do so.

Teamwork Certificate

  1. Offers help with unassigned chores once their chores are complete.
  2. Rides with safety and courtesy (passes safely, maintains good spacing, waits for other riders, etc.) and shares horses and saddles with a positive attitude.
  3. Consistently cleans up after oneself and one’s horse and helps to keep the barn clean and organized.

Leadership Certificate

  1. Consistently takes initiative.
  2. Offers guidance and assistance to other program girls, demonstrating knowledge, respect, and kindness.
  3. Independently develops and teaches an Equine Science class under staff with supervision.

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Urban Farming Program

Responsibility Certificate

  1. Notices when a chicken is showing discomfort or signs of sickness and when plants need attention/care.
  2. Consistently cleans up after garden projects and cooking lessons.
  3. Has a sense of urgency in completing tasks; stays focused and motivated.

Confidence Certificate

  1. Demonstrates the ability to execute tasks that benefit the urban farm
  2. Is able to give constructive criticism while showing another “a better way of practice.”
  3. Demonstrates an ability to adjust to change and is open to trying new things.

Teamwork Certificate

  1. Notices when another in the team needs assistance and offers help.
  2. Displays problem-solving techniques within a group.
  3. Finds a way to have fun with other team members while working and staying focused on the task at hand.

Leadership Certificate

  1. Teaches and shares knowledge with beginner students in a courteous, effective, and productive way.
  2. Outwardly displays acceptance of others.
  3. Knows when to take the initiative and/or when to ask for help.

Stewardship Certificate

  1. Gives a physical tour of the garden with correct plant identifications.
  2. Is able to give a presentation about our flock of chickens.
  3. Demonstrates cooking eggs and/or preparing a dish harvested from the garden.
  4. Passes the following exams:
    1. Chicken Exam
    2. Compost Exam
    3. L.A. River Exam

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Service/Ambassador Certificate

Responsibility Certificate

  1. Participates in at least two volunteerism/community projects with Taking the Reins, showing up on time and staying focused on the tasks at hand.
  2. Participates in at least one volunteerism/community project outside of Taking the Reins.

Confidence Certificate

  1. Effectively and maturely represents Taking the Reins at an event, tour, fieldtrip, interview, etc.
  2. Submits an art project reflecting Taking the Reins.
  3. Submits a project that demonstrates a curiosity and deeper knowledge of Equine Science and presents to other participants during regularly scheduled programming.

Teamwork Certificate

  1. Participates in a volunteer project (such as TTR Volunteer Days, the L.A. River Clean-up, etc.) and demonstrates the ability to work as a team, assisting others as needed.
  2. Demonstrates an ability to be part of a group presentation either during a tour, event, or fieldtrip.

Leadership Certificate

  1. Possesses a positive attitude and leads by example in all areas of programming, including the Equestrian, Urban Farming, and Mentor & Team Coach Programs, as well as an extra curricular activities.
  2. Is assigned a leadership role during a volunteer project or fieldtrip, and effectively helps staff and volunteers organize and motivate other participants.

 

*Participants must continue to demonstrate skills after completing/receiving certificates. Privileges and programs can be suspended if students are not maintaining the standard of the certificate.