Carleen Birnes leads PSUPA Flatwater Level 1 Certification for private groups and individuals.

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The certification covers the technique and teaching skills needed to lead SUP classes confidently and safely. The curriculum emphasizes water safety, leadership, and teaching risk management and rescue procedures. 

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This certification course is designed for convenience, offering a hybrid learning model that includes: self-paced online coursework and an in-person water practicum with Carleen in Severna Park, MD. 

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Online Course: 

• Comprehensive digital manual & video content

• Learn at your own pace

• Complete the online exam from home

• Refer back to the course anytime to stay fresh on material

Water Training Day:

• Only one travel day

• Water safety - emergency preparedness and rescue techniques

• Understanding of weather and conditions

• On-water group management and communication

• How to teach the basic elements of stand up paddling

• Approach and considerations of teaching students of varying ages, abilities, skill levels, and limitations

• Lesson formats and preparation

• Refining your own paddle stroke and maneuvering technique

• SUP gear and equipment overview

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Certification is awarded upon completing the course. This includes passing the online test and achieving a satisfactory evaluation of your teaching, leadership skills and attention to safety. 

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Certification Requirements:

• Participants join PSUPA membership prior to attending the cert. Annual fee $85

• Participants must have a current hands-on (ie., not online-based) First Aid/CPR certification or Wilderness First Aid or Lifeguard Training prior to water training

• Participants must take online exam after certification course. Test fee $40

• Participants must wear USCG approved buoyant PFD for water training

• Paddleboard is not included in the course fee. Inquire for rental rates

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Location:

• Online coursework - Complete at your own pace from your homebase

• On the Water Training - Severna Park, Maryland

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How to Register:

Book your entrance into the program here or the link below, then email Carleen at ches.sup.peake@gmail.com to schedule your water training date and receive your online payment link. Once paid, students will be given access to the online course.