Building Buddies at HDSMS

May 24, 2017

Twenty grade 4 and 5 students and parents from the HDS family of schools recently explored the skilled trades of carpentry, plumbing & piping and horticulture in an interactive, hands on event. For many, this was their first opportunity to use hand tools such as hammers and saws and learn correct woodworking techniques. Students also had a chance to apply the math concepts they’ve learned in class in a real world setting as they measured, divided and cut a 24” 1×6 cedar plank to create a unique project. Over the course of two evening sessions, students designed and constructed self-watering planter boxes that they then filled with tomato plants, chives and lettuce.

Under the guidance of District staff members Ellen Bornowsky, Audrey Milne, Jason Proulx and Edna Schuerhaus, and facilitated by Zee Kesler of the Magic Trout Imaginarium, parents and students were enthusiastic to learn about the Maker movement, the new ADST curriculum and Career Education. “It was awesome and I had so much fun!” (Clara, U-Connect) “My son had a really good time! (Gavin’s dad, James Hill) “I’ve never had a chance to do anything like this before.” (Paul, Uplands) “This is a great opportunity for future HDS students to learn about the kind of projects they’ll get to do next year.” (Stu Mitchell, HDS Tech teacher)