"This is a lot different from algebra:" MPS students perform service-learning at horse rescue farm

MILWAUKEE -- A group of MPS students spend the week with rescue horses in Racine County -- and they're getting school credit for it.

Cleaning out barn stalls is probably not your first thought when you need to fill a graduation requirement. But this isn't about text books -- it's about giving back.

"This is a lot different from algebra." said Sadie Richards, Rufus King High School.

Milwaukee Public Schools students spend the week volunteering at Stepping Stone Horse Farm in Franksville. Completing 20 hours of community service is one of three options for high schoolers in the district to fulfill a graduation requirement.

Being out here at a horse farm is an example of the type of opportunities Milwaukee Public Schools was looking for -- something unique and different the students wouldn't be able to create for themselves.

"They've really gotten to stretch themselves by being in an environment that is so different from our urban life," said Erin Cecil-Pigo, MPS Guidance Counselor.

Students get to know the 27 horses at the farm, all rescued by Lia Sader. Sader rehabilitates the horses so they can rehabilitate people. Working with adults and children, dealing with physical or mental disabilities, and veterans.

"The horses will mirror what is really going on for a person," said Sader.

The horses provide therapy to those in need -- but also show students the rewards that come with hard work.

"It just shows you have to really put your best effort into everything, because it matters," said Richards.

MPS students can fulfill the same graduation requirement by passing an online course or passing a class that includes a service learning experience.