A “Mini” Trip To Pioneer Park Elementary School

 Students at Pioneer Park Elementary School share a special moment with Jets, the miniature pony of JustWorld Ambassador Hailey Hak. Photo by Mike Souza/So Chill Media.

Last March, the students at Pioneer Park Elementary School in Belle Glade, Florida, found a new friend in Matrix, Maria Newman’s gray gelding, who they got to see, touch, and learn about during JustWorld International’s inaugural visit with StoryBook Treasures. During this year’s visit on February 10, the excitement was just as high—but with a new star taking center stage.

While many students asked about Matrix, they quickly found a new favorite in Jets, JustWorld Ambassador Hailey Hak’s miniature horse, who joined the visit for a day of philanthropy, fun, and learning. As Jets jumped over JustWorld obstacles, a chorus of students cheered him on, chanting, “Jump, Jets, Jump!” After his star performance, students eagerly lined up to pet and hug their new equine friend before heading back to the classrooms to read their new books, courtesy of StoryBook Treasures founder Denise Corbo.

“We had an absolutely magical time during our second visit to Pioneer Park Elementary, thanks to our incredible partners at JustWorld International,” Corbo said. “For many of the students, this was their first time seeing a mini-horse, and they were beyond excited to meet Jets and learn about caring for horses through a captivating presentation and live horse-jumping demonstration. To make the experience even more memorable, the JWI ambassadors read a StoryBook Treasures book to all 50 first-grade students, and each child received their very own kit filled with a book about ponies and treasures, ensuring they’ll remember this special day and the support of JWI forever.”

After their time with Jets, Pioneer Park students headed back to the classroom to read alongside JustWorld Ambassadors. Photo by Mike Souza/So Chill Media.

The return to Pioneer Park marked JustWorld’s first project visit of the year, setting the tone for an incredible year ahead with our Ambassadors, donors, and community. The morning began at Belle Herbe Farm, where Ambassadors gathered for breakfast and coffee generously sponsored by Carmela, a local gourmet toast and coffee bar. Then, they commuted to Pioneer Park, where they taught students about horses and read in the classroom.

Cora Greenstreet, a 10-year-old who became an Ambassador last July, enjoyed her first project visit, reading to students and connecting with her peers and friends. 

“It was a really good experience,” said Cora, “and I loved meeting all the kids and having them meet the pony.”
The opportunities continue with a visit to Pahokee Elementary School on Monday, March 10th, followed by the StoryBook Book Packing event on March 11.