After successfully completing Years 1 and 2, students are eligible to continue in our First Mates program. Our First Mates continue to develop their skills and expertise in sailing, boat building and maintenance, navigation, and racing. With significant support from a strong volunteer corp, we provide ongoing mentoring, competitive racing, college preparation, homework support, summer employment assistance, and career discovery.
Basics
| Prerequisites | Students complete the first 2 years of program. |
| Schedule | Meet once per week, Monday-Friday, 4-7pm |
| Trips | Student Plan Overnight Trips (Fall Spring), Irvington (End of Spring Overnight) |
| Typical Day | Each day is a different "track", focusing on a specific sailing-related topic. Students work with their track leader both on land and on water. During this time, students are pulled out in small groups to complete targeted college and career prep, or additional academic support as needed. |
| Credit | Can earn PhysEd credit. |
Program Outcomes
| COLLEGE/CAREER PREPARATION | Students gain advanced skills necessary to post-high school success and learn about college opportunities. 12th grade students are supported through the college application process |
| LEADERSHIP | Students act as role models to younger students and leaders within program |
| ACADEMICS | Students increase proficiency in math/science |
| STEWARDSHIP | Students are stewards of their community, and educate the next generation of stewards |
| SAILING SKILLS | Students can demonstrate the 3/4th year sailing skills and earn the US Sailing Basic Keelboat Certification and HRCS Student Captain Checkout |
Program Dates
| Last Week of Sept | Start of program |
| Election Day | Students support 1st year Fall Trip to Caven Point |
| First Saturday in May | Return to the River Celebration and Wooden Boat Launch |
| Last Weekend in June | Spring Trip to Irvington |
| Last Thursday of Regents Week | Graduation Ceremony |
In their third and fourth years, students complete the First Mates program. During this time, students have the opportunity to choose from several different tracks, focusing on the specific areas that they find most engaging. Sample Track Options:
Skipper Track and Intern Training
Students will build high-level sailing and operational skills, working towards their Student Skipper and Basic Keelboat Instructor Certification. During the Winter, students will complete training preparing them to work across all departments of HRCS
Exploring
Explorers will learn the navigation, safety, and cruising skills necessary to plan and execute overnight trips.
Racing
Racers will learn the skills and tactics necessary to compete at a high level against peers and adults.
Building
Builders will continue to hone their woodworking and engineering skills through a variety of individual and group projects.