Dirk Miller is being honored with Discovery Southeast’s 2019 Discovery Award for his commitment to getting all of Sayeik Gastineau Community School and Juneau Community Charter School’s kids active outside.

Every year, Dirk takes all of the students of Sayeik Gastineau Community School on a cross country skiing field trip to the Mendenhall Campground or Mendenhall Lake.

 

After noticing that few of his Gastineau students rode bikes to school, Dirk started an after-school biking club.  Kids ride the roads and trails near  Sayeik Gastineau Community School and Sandy Beach.  Through a SEARHC healthy living grant, Dirk was able to purchase bikes for the school and get more kids riding.  Since the start of the club, there has been an increase in the number of students who ride to school every spring.  Now Sayeik Gastineau celebrates National Bike to School Day every May.

 

Dirk has also established the Gastineau Trail Runners Club. Students meet weekly after school to run on trails near Gastineau School.  Older students help lead younger students as they learn about pacing and the area around them. The Gastineau Trail Runners Club is another example of Dirk’s efforts to get his students active in the outdoors and promote a healthy lifestyle.

 

We are proud to recognize outstanding teacher Dirk Miller for his dedication to bringing students outdoors and exposing them to activities that will form lifelong passions and healthy habits.  Thank you and congratulations, Dirk!