Albion Middle School students have been striking up a new skill in physical education (PE) class thanks to the Bowler’s Ed Grant Program. Albion was one of 13 schools to be awarded the International Bowling Campus Youth Development's Bowler's Ed Grant ahead of the 2024-25 school year, making this the second school year bowling has been taught in middle school PE classes, with plans to incorporate it into elementary classes in the near future.
The grant provided funding for bowling equipment and curriculum. The equipment kit included six sets of carpeted mobile bowling lanes, rubber bowling balls and plastic pins. The curriculum provides guidance for teaching the fundamentals of bowling, including etiquette, proper form, scorekeeping, fitness, and safety. After learning how to scorekeep, students were able to utilize their Chromebooks to keep a digital scorecard.
To conclude their bowling unit, middle school teachers transformed the gymnasium for cosmic-themed bowling, which mimics a bowling centers' midnight bowling experience. Students and staff are especially looking forward to incorporating the equipment into family engagement events throughout the year, as well as the possibility of partnering with local bowling centers for family bowling nights.
The grant program allows for an educational introduction to a lifelong skill and will also serve as a great segue for students interested in competing on the Unified Bowling team in high school.