GERSTELL ACADEMY
LEADERSHIP • HONOR • COURAGE

Instructing Others: A “Pawsome” Leadership Circle

11/6/2026

As part of the Lower School's focus on the Leadership Attribute “Instruct Others," students welcomed dog trainer Carter Wilde of Wilde Acres for a memorable Leadership Circle that demonstrated the power of effective communication, patience, and leadership.

On Thursday, November 5th, the Lower School gathered for a special Leadership Circle focused on the Gerstell Leadership Attribute “Instruct Others.”

Mrs. Eysaman, longstanding faculty member, and her dog, Mac, experienced a recent incident during a family outing. While enjoying a family meal outside, Mac spotted a squirrel and suddenly took off while her husband was holding the leash. The incident sent him tumbling from his chair and off the deck where they were dining, resulting in injuries. Determined to better train Mac, Mrs. Eysaman began researching dog trainers and was introduced to Carter Wilde of Wilde Acres.

Mr. Wilde, owner and head trainer of Wilde Acres in Reisterstown, visited Gerstell alongside his colleague, Molly, and her dog, Cyra. Through engaging demonstrations, students learned how dog trainers must instruct others clearly and consistently to help dogs learn new skills and behaviors.

Using examples from his daily work, Mr. Wilde showed students that effective instruction requires patience, communication, perseverance, and trust. Students watched these qualities in action as Cyra demonstrated a variety of skills and commands.

One of the highlights of the morning came when Mr. Wilde invited Mr. Polasko, President of Gerstell Academy, to participate in a training demonstration with Cyra. Following Mr. Wilde's instructions, Mr. Polasko practiced a trick with Cyra before challenging the talented pup to persevere and pick up a pumpkin. Students loved watching the interaction and seeing the training techniques in action.

As an entrepreneur and lifelong animal lover, Mr. Wilde leads a team of approximately 20 people at Wilde Acres and founded Wilde American, a company that manufactures dog gear in the United States.

Back

Gerstell Academy’s Lower School Leadership Circle, “Instructing Others,” welcomed dog trainer Carter Wilde of Wilde Acres for a memorable learning experience. Students explored the importance of effective communication, patience, and leadership through hands-on interactions and demonstrations with a well-trained canine companion in Carroll County.
Mr. Polasko, President of Gerstell Academy, joined a training demonstration with Cyra during a visit from Carter Wilde of Wilde Acres. Following Molly’s guidance, Mr. Polasko practiced a trick with Cyra and challenged the talented pup to retrieve a pumpkin in Carroll County.

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