MICANOPY, FL (352today.com) – The horsepower of North Central Florida’s equestrian community was demonstrated during an event this week to raise funds for an equine-inspired literacy campaign.

The Black Stallion Reading Project is a joint effort between the Marion County Public Schools and the Ocala Horse Alliance which encourages 4th grade students to read, set goals, achieve, and learn about career opportunities in the equestrian industry.

“Everyone came out because it was a literacy project,” said Ellie Trueman, Ocala Horse Alliance president. “I think people understand that literacy is good for a community, and it’s good for an industry. Once you’re literate, doors open up to you for careers. It’s proven that you’ll have a better quality of life. So, if we can get kids to appreciate reading and we can use the horse to do that, we’re in great shape.”
(L-R) Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary School 4th grade teachers Kelly Mickel Hubner and Susannah Counts attended the Ocala Horse Alliance’s fundraiser for the Black Stallion Reading Project at Herlong Mansion on June 25, 2024. Courtesy: Ben Baugh /352today
The event’s supporting sponsor was Conway Arabians. Lori Conway and her dog, Bandit, were among those in attendance. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today
Tim Farley, the son of Walter Farley, the author of the Black Stallion series, was a featured speaker at the Ocala Horse Alliance’s fundraiser for the Black Stallion Reading Project. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today
Polly Benson was the silent auction chair at the Ocala Horse Alliance fundraiser for the Black Stallion Reading Project at Herlong Mansion on June 25, 2024. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today
Zoe MIller, a 4th grade teacher at Dunnellon Elementary School, spoke at the Ocala Horse Alliance fundraiser for the Black Stallion Reading Project at Herlong Mansion on June 25, 2024. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today

The reading project provides each student with a copy of the acclaimed book The Black Stallion written by Walter Farley; as well as the opportunity to experience a horse up-close and personal.

The correlation between reading and horses resonated for Ocala native and Dunnellon Elementary School teacher Zoe Miller.

“They embark on transformative journeys that transcend the boundaries of the classroom,” said Miller. “It inspires our students to delve deeper into literature and appreciate the joy of being utterly absorbed in a book.”

And educators believe the program sets students up for long-term success.

“There’s a hidden curriculum in every successful classroom. That hidden curriculum is key to engaging students, and ensuring their lifelong pursuit of learning,” said Kelly Mickel Hubner, Dr. N.H. Jones Elementary School fourth grade teacher. “That key is connections. Successful teachers make connections with their students, and successful teachers help the students see the connection between the academic curriculum and the world outside.”

Tim Farley, the author’s son, was one of the featured speakers at the event, which was held at Herlong Mansion, a historic bed and breakfast in Micanopy. The event featured live and silent auctions with more than 70 items. The yearly fundraiser helps purchase 3,800 copies of The Black Stallion books for 4th graders in Marion County.