Fifth graders in Nicholas Zopp’s class at Lakeview Elementary School recently received an important hands-on lesson in powersport safety from Scotty Nygard, father of student Ameliah. Nygard, a lifelong rider and safety advocate, visited the classroom to teach students about the critical importance of using the proper protective gear when enjoying recreational vehicles such as ATVs, jet skis, dirt bikes and motorcycles.
To begin the session, Nygard asked students how many had been on powersport vehicles, and it was no surprise given the proximity to Lake Mahopac that nearly every hand in the room went up. From there, he emphasized a simple but essential message: “Think before you jump.” Whether riding or simply sitting on the back, Nygard stressed that children should never get on a vehicle without a helmet and should always ride responsibly.
Students explored real safety gear, including helmets, gloves, goggles, jackets with built-in spine protectors, motocross boots and wetsuits designed to keep riders insulated in cold water. Fifth grader Aibhlinn Carey asked whether wetsuits help prevent hypothermia, a smart and relevant question that sparked a deeper discussion about water safety.
Nygard explained how each piece of equipment protects the body: gloves that prevent hand injuries and fatigue, boots that shield ankles and shins, and padded jerseys that keep riders both cool and safe. Students were encouraged to think of powersport safety the same way they think about protecting themselves in soccer, football, hockey or any other sport.
Before leaving, Nygard handed out T-shirts and asked every student to make a promise: to stay safe and wear the correct gear each time they ride.
Mr. Zopp expressed gratitude for the visit, noting how meaningful it is for students to learn these lessons from a community member with real-world experience. “Our students hear messages about safety often, but seeing the gear, asking questions and hearing from someone who knows the risks firsthand really makes it stick,” he said. “We’re thankful to Mr. Nygard for taking the time to reinforce such an important message.”
The Lakeview ROCKS program emphasizes being respectful, organized, cooperative, kind and safe, and this powerful lesson in responsibility and decision-making was a great fit.
