By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–Union City High School and Discovery Park of America have become partners.
It has all the makings of a win-win association.
John Graham’s Construction Trades classes have taken on the project of building wooden trash receptacle covers for numerous locations around DPA.
Graham said his students would build “around 10 coverings” in all. DPA has provided materials for the work, and the project should be completed in another week or so.
Once completed, the finished product(s) will surely be beneficial to both parties.
“We were looking for a project for our carpentry classes and let it be known,” Graham said. “The folks at DPA reached out and we were thrilled to have this opportunity to help them and for our students to get the chance to use some of the things they’ve been taught in class.”
“The kids got really excited when I told them about what we were doing and wanted to know immediately exactly where the receptables would be going at the park. It gives them a little ownership of their work to know that this is something not only for our own community to see, but also will be on display for the many others who tour and enjoy DPA.”
Scott Williams, president and CEO of Discovery Park of America, echoed the UCHS teacher’s comments.
“We are excited to have students from Union City High School helping us with projects around the park,” Williams said. “Incorporating our local young people in different projects brings a sense of pride to the museum and heritage park.
“We invite guests from all over the region to visit the park, and to have something that is handcrafted by local students is something special.”
DPA is currently open Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.