I thought this was awesome and it makes you wonder when fishing will be in the schools and sponsored by the DNR. The Minnesota DNR is sponsoring the Archery in the Schools Program and I think it is a great thing. Check it out, they even have National tournaments. SWEET!!!!
Minnesota DNR Archery in the Schools Program
2006 Archery in Schools State Tournament draws a crowd (2006-04-04)
Maybe we need to talk to the DNR about adding a fishing program for the schools too. I think it would be a great thing. Remember more people get involved in fishing then archery, but I think the DNR could sponsor both and it would be a great thing.
I remember when I was living in CA and in Junior High. There was one teacher that was big into fly fishing. I always would go to his class room because he had fishing stuff all over his room, pretty cool to see. Well anyways, he would have a little side class about fish ecology and water ecosystems. This was usually done after school hours but at the school itself. It was open to any kids that wanted to learn about fishing and the fishes evironment. He would actually get a few kids that were interested in fly fishing and take a little outing to a local lake for some casting lessons and more ecology lessons while on the water. Very fun and interesting class. The whole things was never part of the school system but was given thumbs up by the other teachers and principal. Because we needed signed papers handed to the school office to attend.
So it's being done, but not as a curriculum class and don't think it ever will be. If any state, it would Minnesota that would take a step like that. With all the anglers in the state and millions more coming from out of state, it would make sense that we would take the lead.
Sound interesting and maybe there will be something like that before my kids finish school.