DEED Spotlight on Tikigaq School Fencing Program, North Slope Borough School District

Tikigaq School in Point Hope, Alaska is battling the Covid-19 pandemic like the rest of the world. However, this school in the North Slope Borough School District is striking back by offering opportunities for students to safely participate in activities that keep them engaged and connected. One of the unique offerings is a six-week fencing program for students in 4^th  through 12^th grade.

Tikigaq was blessed by an anonymous benefactor, and all of the equipment for the Fencing Program was donated. Vice Principal Paul Gilbert shared that the donation included, "foils, face guards, gloves, jackets and scoring vests for use with electronic scoring devices.”

Fencing coach, Mr. Ronnie Hawley, stated, “We have been able to form an alliance with USA FENCING and UAF Fencing Club. This alliance has given the program the opportunity to develop a plan as well as lesson plans to provide introductory lessons to students.”

According to Athletic Director, Ramona Rock, “Fencing not only reaches Olympic-level engagement while social distancing but develops gross and fine motor skills and a strong growth mindset.” Mrs. Rock gathered comments from constituents involved in the program below:

School Principal William Schildbach expressed his gratitude to Mr. Hawley stating, “Mr. Hawley’s efforts to provide opportunities for our students is exceptional. During these unique times, we need to create safe opportunities and Mr. Hawley has done just that.”

Bob Bodor of USA FENCING stated, “I am very excited about this start-up program. Fencing is an exciting sport that can help students grow physically and mentally. I am hopeful that other schools will look at Tikigaq School as an example and follow their lead. I would like to see other schools around the State of Alaska start such programs.”

The hope is to have a culminating tournament at the end of the six-week period , so students can bout and show the skills they have gained. At the conclusion of the first six-week session, the program coordinators will reflect on the outcomes, discuss building an intermediate level class, and plan for a new introductory group.

Although this year presents new challenges Tikigaq School will not allow a health pandemic to defeat their engagement and connection with kids. Educators throughout the school are stepping up to the plate with innovative solutions to get students involved. Mrs. Rock shared other educators who are providing outlets that are safe and engaging.  Robert Berry and Melinda Hamerly are leading an Archery Program initiative – National Archery in the School Program. Physical Education teacher Jesse McCloud, Tikigaq Cross Country coach, is helping to bring Biathlon (cross country skiing and rifle shooting competition to the school). Mr. Gilbert is seeking to start a Skeet and Trap Shooting program, and Athletic Director Ramona Rock is developing Softball and Soccer programs. The educators at Tikigaq believe these activities can “defeat the Covid Blues by promoting sportsmanship and leadership, while following all the appropriate safety precautions.”

Thank you to the educators at Tikigaq School for focusing on the opportunities not just opponents or barriers. A special thank you to the Fencing Program at Tikigaq School for equipping and training your students to parry with the unknowns.