Students in the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program at two Orangeville secondary schools are working with Habitat for Humanity to build a “tiny” home in collaboration with a First Nations community in the Saugeen area.
Construction on the home began in the fall of 2024, with students from Westside Secondary School handling the framing and exterior sheathing. The home was moved to Orangeville District Secondary School in early February, where students there will finish the interior.
"Students gained an understanding that when working in the trades you do not always get the ideal conditions. Even when it was raining, snowing or the temperature dropped, we still had a job to complete," Westside SS teacher Chad Burford said.
"Some things cannot be taught, they can only be gained through experience," one of the Westside SS students said about the project.
Habitat for Humanity funded the project, with the UGDSB covering incidental costs and tools as part of the SHSM program. UGDSB Facilities were involved in arranging space for the project at both locations and assisted with moving the home between schools.
"It was a memorable experience for all of us to work on this authentic project. The enthusiasm and excitement demonstrated by the students each day was inspiring. This opportunity would not have been possible without the support of Habitat for Humanity, the Upper Grand District School Board, and the UGDSB Specialist High Skills Major Program," Westside SS teacher Daniel Pinizzotto said.
“Our students and teachers always excel at real-life projects and step up when it counts. This is a great demonstration of the skill sets developed in our tech programs,” said Charles Benyair, Co-operative Education, Dual Credit, Specialist High Skills Major, Technological Education and STEM Curriculum Lead.
“We are also aware of how this supports the larger picture of truth and reconciliation”, he further added.
Supporting Truth and Reconciliation involves both material contributions, like this project, and ongoing, commitments to relationship-building, learning, understanding, and action.
The home is expected to be completed and shared with the community by the end of the school year.