A collaborative learning experience at Bellefontaine High School is making a difference in the community.
BHS English students spent Tuesday morning painting several Logan County Metropolitan Housing Authority homes on Woodview Drive. During the next several weeks, pupils in the program will paint up to 50 porches in the area.
“This is a community learning experience that gives us a better visual presence in our neighborhood,” Metro Housing Deputy Director Josh Jones said.
Jones said the agency only has three maintenance workers. The work being done by BHS students will allow the maintenance department to focus on larger projects.
The collaborative program was developed by teachers Rick Reed and Chris Miller to assist students with earn their final English credit needed for graduation.
Miller teaches the English curriculum and Reed oversees the service learning/community service component.
The students will perform service projects this school year with the following community partners: Logan County Metropolitan Housing Authority, Bellefontaine Police Department, Logan County Veterans Services, Bellefontaine Elementary School, Our Daily Bread, Lutheran Community Services, Bellefontaine Rotary Club and Bellefontaine Parks and Recreation.
Reed and Miller spent the last six months working with BHS Principal Dr. Pam Noeth to develop the unique class.
“The long term goal is to just keep serving our community and give our kids an authentic experience,” Reed said.
“We’re hoping we can get the students engaged in something that is bigger than themselves. We found that service improves their self-image and empathy for others.”
After completing the project, students will write reflection papers. They will also develop proposals to assist that community partner. Finally, students will write an action plan and present the plan in class.