By Susanne Reynolds

Special to The Post-Searchlight
Not all of the classes taught at Bainbridge State College are done inside the traditional classroom. Some are taught in nature.

Each semester, Associate Professor of Health, Physical Education & Wellness, David Sarrette, offers a Kayaking course that takes the students on an incredible journey beyond classroom walls.

This activity course involves learning basic kayak skills, water safety, and trip planning. The majority of the course involves students paddling the kayaks for fitness and fun.

One of the most recent destinations the class kayaked was from Brinson Bridge to Smith’s Landing on Spring Creek right here in Bainbridge.

Many of the students had never been on the Creek, let alone kayaked in its clear waters.

“For many students the kayak trips are an adventure they will remember for a lifetime,” said Sarrette who has been leading the class since 2003.

During the fall semester, a mother and her son signed up for the class and found it to be the beginning of something they could enjoy together.

Janette Burkes, an Early Education program student; and her son, Blake Burkes, a Nursing student worked together as a team and found a new hobby.

Burkes said, “It’s something we can do together before he flies the coup—and it’s all about working together as a team. It’s now something we enjoy doing together. I’m glad we decided to sign up for the course.”

Blake added, “I was glad to take this class with my mom. She helped keep me focused and together we had a really good time.”

For more information on the Kayaking course and club, please contact David Sarrette at dsarrette@bainbridge.edu.