Campus News

TAY program kicks off winter 2022 with sledding day

Program provides outdoor adventure education programs for 8th grade middle school students

TAY students pictured from far left to right are: Brayden Shaffer, Walter Green, Taybrenn Montana, Bodi Glotfelty, Kristofer Sines.

Garrett College’s Transition Age Youth (TAY) program recently kicked off the 2022 spring semester at New Germany State Park with a good old-fashioned sledding day. The TAY program, coordinated through the College’s Outdoor Leadership & Adventure Education (OLA) department provides outdoor adventure programs for local 8th graders at Northern and Southern Middle schools.

In collaboration with the Garrett County Local Behavioral Health Authority and Garrett County Board of Education, TAY utilizes outdoor education to help students build life skills, excel in academic achievement, and strengthen self-confidence. The Maryland Department of Health, Behavioral Health Administration supports the grant-funded program.

This winter, TAY students will take advantage of Garrett County winter activities such as downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing at Wisp Resort and local parks. During the spring months, TAY activities include mountain biking, rock climbing, rafting, and hiking at local state parks.

“It has been a challenging two years dealing with COVID-19 but having the change to get students outside and having in-person programming has made such a difference for students this year,” explains TAY Coordinator, Scott Richardson.

Students participate in TAY one day each week, starting in October and continuing through June. TAY continues to support students as they transition to high school, with activities one Friday per month during the school year, and has a six-day program in August with exciting summer activities for students enrolled in the program. College students majoring in Outdoor Leadership & Adventure Education serve as mentors to TAY participants, building long-lasting relationships.

For more information about the TAY program, please contact Richardson at 301-387-3323 or scott.richardson@garrettcollege.edu.