February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, when we celebrate hands-on job readiness learning. Students at Hockinson Middle School are demonstrating exactly what CTE is all about. Recently, 8th-grade students in the HMS Woodshop program revamped the school’s trophy and display case by building and installing safer, more durable shelving.
Students in Mr. Klodt's CTE Woodshop class handled the project from start to finish and gained real-world experience at every step. They removed the original shelving and brackets, installed new brackets designed for wood, and completed the full build and installation process. This included taking precise measurements, cutting boards to fit, sanding and sealing each shelf, leveling, and installing the finished shelves inside the display case.
The display case was originally installed with glass shelves. However, it became difficult to ensure the glass remained securely connected to its brackets over time. This was a cause for concern because if a shelf shifted or slipped, it could fall and break the display case's sliding glass doors. Now, the middle school trophy case has custom-built wooden shelves designed to support additional weight and provide a reliable long-term solution.
HMS Principal Colpron praised the students’ dedication and initiative, noting that students came in before and after school to help complete the project. Their extra effort reflects a strong sense of ownership and pride in both their craftsmanship and in improving their school environment.
Through CTE programs, students develop widely applicable practical skills that prepare them for life after graduation and to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Thanks to Mr. Klodt's Woodshop students, the trophy case is ready to showcase student achievements for years to come.
Fun fact: the most recent addition to HMS's display case is their Culture Kickoff Award from the Association of Washington School Principals, which they won for the second year in a row!