THERE’S GOOD NEWS: Madras High School students build bathrooms from scratch
MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — Advanced Construction students at Madras High School are building fully functional bathrooms from the ground up as part of a hands-on learning project. The initiative is designed to test skills learned in prior classes while providing students with experience similar to a real-world job site.
The project is a core component of the school's Career and Technical Education program. It allows students to see the detailed work required to construct one part of a house while preparing them for future careers in the construction industry.
The project requires students to demonstrate proficiency in a wide range of trades including framing, basic plumbing, electrical work, flooring and tile work. To successfully complete the bathrooms, students must also master measuring and the reading of blueprints. Participants work in teams to accomplish goals, a skill the department identifies as valuable for post-secondary success.
Participation in Career and Technical Education, known as CTE, has shown a high correlation with student achievement at the school. Nearly 200 students from the Class of 2024 enrolled in CTE courses. These students achieved a graduation rate of more than 95%.
The Construction Technology Department operates on a philosophy of exposing students to the various careers required to create the built environment. The program is designed to serve students interested in engineering or construction trades, as well as those who will use the skills as informed consumers. Students learn the language of the industry and develop safe, employable skill sets by designing, building and maintaining their surroundings.
By immersing students in hands-on activities that reinforce applied academics, the department aims to help students make confident choices about their career planning. These technical skills are intended to provide a headstart for students entering the workforce, regardless of their chosen career path.
Industry certifications and dual credit opportunities for Madras High School construction courses are currently being developed. These credentials will allow students to demonstrate their skills to potential future employers.
