Every year students in Project Lead the Way woodworking classes at North and South Junior High Schools have a chance to do a major build project. They work from start to finish on a shed or playhouse using lumber and tools. The project is possible due to the generous donation and partnership with Simonson Lumber.
“Students are introduced to safety and machine use in seventh grade,” explains South career and tech ed teacher Tom Dahl. “While the focus is on safety and materials fabrication, students [also] learn techniques of measurement, assembly and finish work. Our assignments are geared toward learning by doing, and we’ve introduced projects that are culturally transferable.”
Transferable skills to the “real world” is the main objective. Every student learns how to properly handle tools, take measurements and plan a project. Whether a student ultimately owns a home, attempts a do-it-yourself project or works in construction, they’ll take these skills and confidence with them throughout their lifetime.
South eighth grader Mailynn Vo took the class because she was interested in woodworking. Vo built one of the scaled (3/16) replicas of the shed.
Eighth grader Yaitza Arroyo-Ruiz at South grew up helping her dad build things, so the class brings back good memories for her.
“He used to build things for construction,” explains Arroyo-Ruiz, “so I would help him build certain stuff.”
“Students that find enjoyment in working with their hands often elect to join the yearlong class. Their understanding and technique are further challenged by learning milling and a few joinery techniques,” says Dahl.
Masaud Mohamed, another eighth grader at South, was responsible for doing the measuring of the lumber.
“I took the class because it would help me learn some life skills,” says Mohamed. “Taking this class helps me see what it is and maybe take it in high school.”
Career demand for skilled workers is at an all-time high.
“My colleague, Mr. Stadther, and I often hear from industry professionals about their needs, which keeps us in tune for how to design and teach our courses,” shares Dahl.
There is something for each student. Students who are nervous about using machinery still learn the operations and soon learn that with proper training, a build project is very satisfying.
Michelle Sininger from Simonson Lumber says, “We have had a fantastic partnership with the junior high instructors over the years in being able to provide them with the materials to build small sheds and playhouses with the students. We all know that the earlier we can expose kids to the trades, the more likely they are to have interest in the field. We are blessed to be able to give back to the students, our builders and our community through this partnership.”
“From my point of view,” says Dahl, “they have been very generous in their support of our students. Their donation allows us to improve the program through the purchase of tools and materials for future use.”
When the next shed is complete, it will be up for sale to the public.
Students who exit the program have experience with machine and tool usage, building and finishing projects, and completing plans from start to finish. Even if a student does not become a carpenter or cabinet builder, the skills they learn develop confidence and practical knowledge for life.
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