Lindsey Beinhart, Maintenance Director; Mike McGrory, Superintendent; and Dave Harper, Executive Director of Operations
The Ottumwa Construction Academy broke ground this week on the first of five homes that will be built by OHS students near Liberty Elementary.
The new partnership with Indian Hills Community College will result in the construction of a new house annually, built by students. During the groundbreaking ceremony, Superintendent Mike McGrory thanked the Legacy Foundation and Regional Housing Trust Authority for their contribution of $100,000 each to make this academy viable. "We couldn't do this without their support," said McGrory.
Last spring, John Dorman, Program Director for the IHCC Construction Academy, updated the Board of Directors about the construction program. Highlights included:
- Program is open to OHS juniors and seniors
- Students can earn 18 credits per year for a total of 36 credits
- Students who successfully complete the program will earn their AAS Construction Technology diploma
- Goal is to build a new house each year
- Location of first home is on district property near Liberty Elementary
- The house will be the same design as one being built in a similar program in Centerville
- Foundation work will be done in July to allow students to begin framing in August.
The program can serve up to 30 students, with 15 in each block. Sub-contractors will assist with the project to help meet deadlines.
"Having this type of collaboration in our community is outstanding," McGrory said.
Representatives from Ottumwa Schools, Indian Hills Community College, Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation, and Area 15 Regional Planning attended the groundbreaking on Bennink Lane.