NASP Information

“Not everyone can dunk the ball, tackle, or run fast. However, as a young lady from North Pulaski M.S. said, “I can do this!”

National Archery in the Schools Program LogoA physical education curriculum entitled, Archery: “On Target for Life” co-created by the Departments of Education and Fish & Wildlife Resources was implemented in 100 of Kentucky’s middle schools in 2002.

Designed to teach Olympic-style target archery in 4th-12th grades, core content covers archery history, safety, technique, equipment, mental concentration, and self-improvement. Before presenting the 2-week archery course, teachers undergo a 12-hour National Archery Association Level I archery-training program.

Students shoot at bullseye targets placed before an arrow resistant net in their gymnasium. Equipment used is state-of-the art and designed to fit every student. Thanks to support from the archery industry, the $4,800 equipment “kits” can be purchased by schools for $2,800. More than 270,000 students are expected to take the two week curriculum each year.

Teachers Report

  • Students are enthusiastic about learning archery
  • Student behavior and attendance is improved on archery days
  • Students that historically resisted PE class are eager to participate in archery
  • Students who excel in archery class are not only the stereotypical athletes

Following a demonstration at Woodford County Middle School on May 15th:

“As I watched the students and their teachers cheering for one another, it was evident this archery program has provided a common experience from which students and teachers can relate to one another. I’m convinced this will improve teacher/student relationships in other classes throughout the year.” Gene Wilhoit, Commissioner of Education

“Someday, five million students each year in 10,000 schools will participate in the National Archery in the Schools Program. This bodes well for the future of the shooting sports, conservation and especially young people everywhere. We are hopeful that archery will soon join basketball, baseball, football, tennis and other activities as an officially sanctioned high school sport." Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Jon Gassett, PhD

Student shooting with instructor in a gym

Archery programs can be set up in gyms, so that students can shoot during the entire school year.


Kentucky Department of Education Logo

To learn more about the program and to make this physical education curriculum available to your student body, contact: Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources @ 1-800-858-1549 or e-mail info.center@ky.gov

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Logo