School Program
Research reveals convincing evidence that youth involved in our programs transferred life skills to multiple settings and learned and used life skills through the game of golf. Our curriculum, combined with trained educators, empowers participants with a set of skills that prepares them for a lifetime of new challenges.
Since 2004, First Tee has been integrating the First Tee School Program into PE classes across the country. We’ve equipped educators at elementary and middle schools with our curriculum built around the game of golf, while positively impacting kids through both the game and its inherent ability to improve social-emotional learning (SEL) skills. We work with the school to identify funding opportunities, such as sponsors or donations.
This program aligns with national physical education standards developed by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) and is designed to allow physical educators the ability to adjust lessons to fit their specific teaching situations in terms of class size, time, and facility type.
Program Objectives
- Create a safe introduction to golf for today’s students and teachers.
- Ensure that golf education meets the same national standards developed by the Society for Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE).
- Help students build character and confidence through the positive personal and social values associated with the game.
- Engage students in daily lesson activities that lead to development of basic golf motor skills
- Show students that golf can be a great lifelong recreation and health-enhancing activity.
- Make the positive values of golf a part of the classroom and students’ everyday lives.
What’s Provided
Our School Program is FREE to use, and there is no cost to you or the school to partner with us. We provide everything you need to successfully teach golf to your students:
- 🏫 In-person or online training to get started.
- ⛳ Grade-based equipment (K-5 & 6-8)
- 💻 Online resources and materials to support instruction year-round.
- 📘 A Program Binder complete with lesson plans and teaching tips.
We have an online community for teachers and youth leaders delivering our program, providing access to the curriculum, resources, and connections with peers delivering the program around the country.
Ready to Get Started?
To learn more about implementing this program in your area, contact us below and we will be in touch with more information.
2025-26 Impact
- 108 School Program Partners
- 53% program delivery rate
- 26,322 students impacted through the First Tee School Program
School Program Frequently Asked Questions
Is the School Program free to use?
Yes! The School Program is 100% free, and there is not cost to you or the school to partner with us. We fund this program through grants and private donations, so none of the programming costs are passed on.
Is the equipment suitable for indoor and outdoor use?
Absolutely. Everything can be used indoors in a gym, or outdoors in a field.
The equipment we provide is grade-based and developmentally appropriate. Students are not using real golf equipment, but rather durable plastic clubs, tennis balls, and velcro targets. This makes learning the game easier and more engaging for everyone.
I don't know anything about golf. How can I implement this program at my school?
This program was designed for educators without golf experience, and we provide all the resources you need to be successful. We provide on-site and online training to get you started, and the complementary program binder has even more resources to help prepare you to teach golf to your students.
Do I have to follow the curriculum? Or can I do my own activities?
This program is entirely flexible. The program binder is a resource for you, but by no means are you obligated to use it. There are additional activities that we provide in our Activity Bank that can help you get started as well.
Who can I contact for help or questions?
Tyler Sutphin | Assistant Program Director
- [email protected]
- (513)) 988-7226 ext.6
Teacher of the Year Award
| Teacher | School | Year |
| Brad Fletcher | Amanda Elementary | 2023-2024 |
| Brianna Velazquez | Gilbert A. Dater High School | 2024-2025 |
| Missy Schmitt | St. Pius X School | 2025-2026 |
Already Teaching First Tee School Program?
If your elementary or middle school is already using First Tee School Program in Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky and you have Qs or need assistance, contact Program Director, Ben Walker at 513-988-7226 x5.
For new activity ideas, click the button below to access our Activity Bank.
