For the previous two years, the Eastern Montgomery High School Materials and Processes Technology class has been constructing an outdoor classroom. Taught by Marc Eaton, the students completed the project in two phases and received our Constructing Careers grants both years to aid the costs of the classroom.  

Phase one of the project was completed during the 2023-2024 school year. During this phase, students designed and built a 480 sq ft octagonal pad with footings at each apex of the base. Students used their geometry skills to calculate the size of the pad, and where it would fit in the landscape of the school. To create the classroom, the school had to have a building permit; Eaton showed the students every step he took to receive a permit for the project and educated them on zoning laws and the limitations they could cause. Once construction began, they were able to operate a mini excavator to clear the ground, footers, and level the area. After this process, the county inspectors visited the school and confirmed the footers the students had cleared passed the inspection. Before concrete could be added to the area, Eaton explained the importance of steel in strengthening concrete, and students cut and placed a wired grid to reinforce the structure. While students were unable to pour the concrete themselves, they got to observe professionals pour, level, and finish the concrete pad. Thus, phase one of the projects was complete. 

While trying to complete phase two of the project during the 2024-2025 school year, the costs of creating the gazebo and metal roof were too large to be covered by the grant, partnerships, and private donations. After reaching out to local businesses and continuing to be persistent and dedicated to the project, Eaton was able to obtain all the materials for the project to become complete. Although it was difficult not making any progress towards the classroom for a year, this taught students how there may be setbacks in their projects and to remain persistent in getting the job done. 

When students came back for the 2025-2026 school year, they had the opportunity to collaborate with multiple professionals in the construction industry and complete phase two, planning and constructing the octagonal gazebo and roof covering for the outdoor classroom. Through this phase, students collaborated with Blue Ridge Timberwrights to learn how to locate the post bases and drill and fasten them to the pad. Then they assembled eight posts and beams with braces and assembled and installed four rafters with a kingpin. Students finished installing rafters and observed Burke’s Fork Log Homes installing the roof.  

In this process, students engaged in hands-on learning experiences that taught them design, problem-solving, machinery operation, engineering, and construction skills that aren’t readily available to students elsewhere. Learning and working with professionals in the technical fields students are interested in encourages them to continue to pursue construction careers and help them create a network of workforce members they know. After the collaboration with Blue Ridge Timberwrights in the second phase, Eaton explained, “Thanks to this experience, at least three of my students are seeking jobs next summer with Blue Ridge Timberwrights.”  

Upon completion of the project, the outdoor classroom has been dedicated to a beloved teacher in the community, Holly King. The student's teamwork and engagement in the project brought it to life to honor King for years to come.  

In collaboration with JC Martin, Modern Day Roofing, Blue Ridge Timberwrights, Extreme Concrete and Construction, Turman Lumber, Burke’s Fork Log Homes, Cumberland Ridge Forest Products, B&B Powder, Sunbelt Rentals, and Chaney Enterprise, most materials and equipment were able to be donated to the school in order to complete the project.