2016 Barnett Continuing Education Grant Recipient: Reese Koffler-Stanfield
In 2004, I became a USDF Certified Instructor through Fourth Level. The certification process helped me develop my teaching, lunging, and riding skills. It was also instrumental in helping my business grow into the thriving dressage training center in Georgetown, Kentucky that is remains today.
Two years ago, I decided to apply for my FEI Certification. Having learned that a substantial financial commitment was necessary to reach my goal, I consulted with USDF who readily recommended that I apply for The Dressage Foundation’s Maryal and Charlie Barnett Continuing Education grant. The availability of the grant made it possible for me to submit my application for the program.
After having been accepted, I attended two workshops in preparation for testing. During the workshops I learned how to utilize the assessment cycle to first observe the student and then to analyze both the student and horse by using the pyramid of training, formulating a lesson plan and implementation of the plan.
During the testing, I was asked to ride two horses and teach two lessons. My teaching style was critiqued by the USDF Faculty. I appreciated the positive comments and feedback that will serve to improve my future lesson formats. The riding portion of the testing proved to be my favorite part of the testing. During the riding phase, I was reminded that developing a riding plan is always a crucial part of every ride.
The USDF Certification Program at each level is designed to help instructors grow in our profession by improving all of our skills, especially our teaching and communication. An important benefit of the FEI Certification program is the opportunity of working with esteemed FEI Faculty members who take a great interest in each instructor by becoming a wonderful support system at the highest level. My main tip of any instructor thinking about participating in the program is to go for it. It is continuing education that will help you as an instructor grow and develop your skills along with helping your business grow.
The USDF office staff was instrumental in helping me navigate the application process and nuances of the program. It is my pleasure to thank The Dressage Foundation along with Maryal and Charles Barnett for providing an educational grant for USDF Certified Instructors in order to help make the program accessible. Without their help, my participation in the FEI Certification program would not have been possible.
