By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–A ‘can-do’ work ethic helped a collection of Union City High School students earn a pair of accolades at the seventh annual Canstruction Jr. competition at Discovery Park of America.
Comprised of students from the Art Club, Skills USA, and Key Club, the UCHS group won first place for ‘Best Use of Labels’ and was runner-up in ‘Juror’s Choice’ for their efforts pieced together under the theme “In the Clouds.”
The sculpture depicted a plane breaking through the clouds, conveying that “we should all be striving to break through the walls of hunger.”
UC’s design included a two-dimensional wall background of bright blue sky and clouds. The clouds were extended three-dimensionally from the background to the foreground and flowed onto the floor.
Students meticulously turned each can in the correct direction to display the optimal color needed for their design – a key factor in the group earning the ‘Best Use of Labels’ award. They also managed to build the tallest structure in the competition, giving way to a tall sky with clouds and a fun, bright plane bursting through them.
The design and build competition included 10 teams this year, each given a seven-foot square space and three hours to construct their respective entries. Teams were limited to 10 students at work on the project during any given time, and no teachers, parents, or staff were allowed to help with the structure.
Veteran Art teacher Hilary Webb again spearheaded Union City’s effort in the competition, along with construction teacher Coby Watt. Key Club advisor Carolyn Nipp and student-teacher Cailynn Smith were also valuable resources in assisting students.
“Coach Watts and I had a great team this year, along with student teacher Cailynn Smith,” Webb said. “They (students) worked really hard, were engaged, and took it seriously. There was a lot of discussion, problem-solving, and teamwork throughout the event.
“The students were proud of the final results and winning awards in two categories.”
All cans and food products will be donated to various food banks and programs following the month-long display at the Discovery Park of America.