The American Canoe Association (ACA) is pleased to announce that Earth’s Classroom, a nonprofit outdoor education organization based in Rosebud, Missouri, has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the Mike & Marge Cline Memorial Grant.
Since 1999, Earth’s Classroom has used experiential education to foster awareness, understanding, and appreciation of ecology and cultural history. Their programming connects youth and families to the natural world through immersive, hands-on learning that builds confidence, stewardship, and lifelong outdoor skills.
With support from this year’s grant, Earth’s Classroom will fund 36 high school students to participate in two multi-day Ecology Canoe Camping Trips during the summer of 2026. Each three-day, two-night expedition will incorporate formal instruction in the ACA Level 2: Essentials of River Canoeing Skills course, led by ACA Level 4 certified instructors.
These trips are designed to serve primarily first-time paddlers, many from Title I schools and limited-access backgrounds. By covering course fees, the grant removes financial barriers and ensures equitable access to high-quality paddlesports education and nationally recognized skill development.
Participants will gain foundational paddling techniques, river safety knowledge, and a deeper understanding of Missouri’s Ozark waterways within a supportive and engaging outdoor learning environment. In addition to technical skills, students will build confidence and develop a lasting connection to their local rivers.
Beyond the course, Earth’s Classroom emphasizes stewardship and community engagement. Students are encouraged to apply their skills through service opportunities such as river cleanups and continued involvement in local paddling communities.
“By equipping students with these skills in a safe, guided environment, Earth’s Classroom continues the legacy of Marge ‘River Mom’ Cline, inspiring young paddlers to develop expertise, respect their rivers, and give back to their local paddling communities.”
The ACA is proud to support programs like Earth’s Classroom that expand access to paddlesports while fostering safety, education, and stewardship for future generations.
