From Ski Vermont Press Releases by Jen Butson

Ski school isn’t just for kids in bibs; in increasing numbers, the boomer generation is learning to love winter and love learning. The Stratton Snowsports School saw a 10% increase in adult lessons during the 2010-2011 season. Whether guiding students through wedge turns or the steep moguls on World Cup, Stratton Mountain has long been home to a new school of ski school.

“Our mission is to equip you to conquer the mountain on any day of the season,” said Craig Panarisi, Snowsports School Director. “It’s not just about learning how to turn and stop. Understanding the relationship between your gear, your body and the snow will let you apply your technique across all terrain, making you a confident and successful skier or rider.”

Confidence is a key to enjoying a day on the slopes, which is why Stratton offers a variety of lesson options to suit everyone from sometimes snow bunnies to die-hard powder hounds. A full range of private and group lessons are available for adults and children as young as age 4, in addition to unique programs like Stratton’s Women’s Workshops and Experience Snowboarding.

This year, Stratton partners with Burton to roll out Experience Snowboarding, a new immersive program unlike any other. With small student-instructor ratios, the program aims to give new riders ages 13 and up the best possible first-time on snow. They’ll spend an entire day learning about the sport, gear and, of course, learning to turn. Progressing riders will get a lesson tailored to their goals, whether they want to rip down black diamonds or slide boxes. At the end of the day, no matter where they started, every rider will walk away as a confident snowboarder.

Building confidence is what it’s all about at Stratton’s women’s workshops. These 2 or 3 day on-snow clinics offer a tailored learning experience for lady skiers and snowboarders of all levels. “Many of our women are looking to feel comfortable and confident on the snow as well as enjoy the encouragement and energy they get from women instructors,” said Alison Cummings, Assistant Director of the Ski & Snowboard School. Held throughout the winter, the workshops are taught by Stratton’s highly skilled female instructors and give women the chance to test their limits in a supportive and fun environment!

Whatever your goals on the snow, a lesson, clinic or experience at Stratton will give you the tools to meet them. To celebrate Learn to Ski and Ride Month, take a group lesson with Stratton’s skilled instructors for just $29 throughout the month of January on non-holiday days. Visit www.Stratton.com for information on Experience Snowboarding and all our lesson information. We’ll help you get out there and enjoy the snow!