Last week, Nick Schuldt’s CFJ first grade class had “snow” much fun as they transformed the back area of their school into “Ski-FJ.” With skis, boots, and poles in hand, and fresh snow outdoors, Mr. Schuldt took his students outside for their first-ever cross-country skiing experience.
Skiing has been a part of Mr. Schuldt’s teaching for several years through his K–5 after-school enrichment program, also called Ski-FJ. This year, he expanded the opportunity to include his entire first grade class, giving every student the chance to learn and explore the winter sport together.
Mr. Schuldt’s love for skiing began when he was in first grade, thanks to time spent on the snow with his grandfather and mother. That early experience sparked a lifelong passion for winter, snow, and skiing. Now, as a teacher working with students the same age he was when he first learned to ski, he enjoys passing that passion along and helping students build confidence and excitement outdoors.
Before heading outside, students connected skiing to STEM learning in the classroom. They 
explored the science of snow, how skis move across it, and how ski equipment works. These lessons helped prepare students for their first day on skis and will continue throughout the month as the class spends more time skiing and learning together.
A special thank you goes to the Broome-Tioga BOCES Media Library for providing the elementary ski equipment sets that made this experience possible. Mr. Schuldt’s class is excited to get back out on the snow for more skiing, learning, and winter fun in the weeks ahead.
