Written by
Dee Loflin SMT Manager/Writer
Stoddard County – The National Archery in the Schools Program(NASP) promotes international-style target archery as par of the in-school curriculum, to improve educational performance and participation in the shooting sports among students in grades 4 – 12.
Puxico was the first school in Stoddard County to offer NASP and they began their program in 2012.
Richland has signed up for NASP and will begin their program this fall when students return to school.
The Missouri Department of Conservation and the National Wild Turkey Federation hopes to see NASP in every Stoddard County School. With the Missouri Department of Conservation offering grants to pay for part of the equipment necessary for the program and the Crowley’s Ridge Limbhangers, a local chapter of the NWTF raising money to help offset the other costs involved, the program should be successful.
This weekend the Crowley’s Ridge Limbhangers will be selling smoked chickens for $8 each as one of their many fundraising ventures. You can purchase a ticket at American Outdoors, anytime between now and August 2nd.
On August 3rd the chickens, completely donated by Tyson Foods, Inc. will be smoked and ready for pick-up between 2 – 4 p.m. also American Outdoors. 100% of the proceeds will be used for NASP in Stoddard County Schools.
Tickets can also be purchased from any NWTF committee member or call 573-624-5421 between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. American Outdoors is located at 2104 N. Outer Road, Dexter.
“The National Archery in the Schools Program provides 4th - 12th grade students opportunity to experience success in school. No matter what their gender, size, background or ability, any student can participate in archery,” stated Mark Reed, Stoddard County, Missouri Department of Conservation Agent. “We are only half-way to our goal and we need the community’s support.
NASP facts
-94% of students enjoy the two-week NASP course
-66% like physical education class better because of NASP
-53% of students like themselves better after NASP lessons
-49% like school better on "archery days"
-37% of NASP schools start after school clubs
Teachers report the NASP improves student behavior, grades and attendance.
In Missouri more than 64,000 students participate each year in over 290 schools.
More than 1,400 students participated in the Missouri 2013 state tournament.
Since NASP began in March of 2002, 10 million students have participated -- 10,000 schools have joined -- 47 stated and 6 countries have adopted the program.
For more information about NASP click here or find them on Facebook by clicking here.
Pictured is Bobby Shipman, NWTF Limbhanger Committee Member teaching a young man at a recent JAKES Day Event held annually in Bloomfield, Missouri.
