Horses have always been a part of Stewart Home School since its inception in 1893. The Equestrian Program itself has evolved from just a few students riding to almost half of the school’s population being involved with the horses.

Our program is open to all interested students and, depending on their request, they may be riding the horses or driving our Shetland pony. If necessary, the students’ medical and physical abilities are evaluated to place them in the safest and most enjoyable portion of the program.

Our instructors are very well qualified: Betsy Grewe was raised on a Michigan farm where she began riding horses at age five. Her love of the animals led her to earning dual degrees in Equine Business Management and English Riding/Training Emphasis from the University of Findlay in 2003. She joined the Stewart Home family in May 2009 as the Equestrian Program Assistant Director and was promoted to Director in November 2011. Michele Ridenour, Assistant Director, graduated from Asbury University’s Equine Program in 2009 with a Bachelor’s degree in Equine Management. During this time, Michele developed a love and passion for working with students with special needs and using horseback riding as a therapeutic and recreational activity for them. This passion influenced her decision to continue her education, and in May 2011 graduated from Asbury with a Master’s degree in Special Education. Michele is originally from the Chicago area, but now resides on her family’s farm in Harrodsburg, Kentucky.

In 2009, we opened our new Equestrian Center, which includes an 11-stall barn, wash rack, feed room, a 12′ X 24′ heated and air-conditioned tack room and an absolutely beautiful indoor arena featuring a dust-free surface and glass garage doors that open in good weather. These facilities allow us to offer horse riding therapy year round.