Balancing School & Riding

A homeschooler, public school student, and cyber schooler discuss how they keep up with both academic and equestrian goals.

- SHOSHANA RUDSKI

The end of summer means back to school. However, just because you're back to hitting the books doesn't mean your riding goals need to come to a halt. We chatted with three high school students-Lila, Emma, and Ryleigh-to learn their tips for keeping up with horses and studying.

Lila is going into 9th grade and is homeschooled. She has been riding for around three years and focuses on eventing. She is competing her lease horse, Viva, at Beginner Novice.

Emma also events. She leases a horse, Oliver, and is going into 10th grade at a public school. She, along with Lila, are members of the Keeneland Pony Club in Lexington, Ky., and participate in camps, rallies, and other Pony Club activities.

Ryleigh just finished high school and is now aiming to ride dressage professionally. She attended cyber school and has big riding goals. She also plans to start her own training business.

What is your typical daily schedule like?

Lila: I typically get to the barn every morning around 8 a.m. My mom and I do chores, which usually takes about an hour. I then come inside and do my schoolwork and relax a little. Around 1 p.m., I head back out and start riding and doing horse chores.

Emma: I go to school from 8:25 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. I try to make it to the barn by 4:30 p.m., then be home by 6:45 p.m. to do homework.

Ryleigh: I usually spend the mornings at the barn, working and riding, and then do schoolwork in the afternoon and into the evening.

How do you make up missed schoolwork while attending horse shows?

Lila: As a homeschooler, it is much easier for me to make up my work. I usually will just do my work over the weekend if I miss weekdays for a show.