Teaching students to have an active part in promoting school spirit and community pride are important parts of the educational process. And teachers at Laurel High School’s Career and Technical Center are doing just that.

Students in Ralph James’ Industrial Maintenance II class were posed a problem by LHS Principal Carl Michael Day and asked to solve the problem. His challenge to the students was to develop a sign leading to Laurel High School that would be placed near the school. The sign needed to be unique to Laurel High, eye-catching and appealing.

The Industrial Maintenance II students, under the direction of James, set out to create a work of art that would promote their high school. Using state-of-the-art technology the students exceeded the expectations of administration, and learned many valuable lessons in the process.

The students used a Computer Numerated Controlled Plasma Cutter to create the sign. James said the current school year is the first year the machine has been used as part of the classroom curriculum.

“The CNC arrived in a variety of parts during the fourth nine weeks of school last year,” James said. “These students used their skills to assemble the machine and test its functionality.”

“They have enjoyed using this piece of technology,” James continued. “It has been a true benefit to our classroom, and these eager students have learned another skill that will benefit them in the workforce.”

After creating a design, the students cut a prototype that was approved by administration. Following approval, and rave reviews, the students began constructing the official sign.

“We put a lot of work into the sign,” said Matthew Windham, 12th grade. “When you put a lot of work into something, you get a good outcome.”

“This project made me feel like I can create anything,” added Willie Bogan 11th grade. “I learned a lot in the process, especially teamwork. It also helps to have an encouraging teacher like Mr. James.”

The students give a lot of credit to their teacher who they say allows them to be creative and think outside of the box.

“I learned to weld,” said Garron McCullum, 11th grade. “And if we listen to Mr. James, his experiences will help us learn a lot of things that will benefit us at future jobs.”

James said the students are very proud of their creation, which includes the school’s name, mascot and a directional arrow.

“These students worked exceptionally hard on this project, and have given their school a piece of art that will be enjoyed by many,” James said.

“The sign project has given us the opportunity to achieve something nobody else had the opportunity to achieve,” said Keriyon Lindsey, 12th grade. “We created something beautiful for our school and community.”

“It feels good to be a part of something that the entire city will have the opportunity to see,” added Dequarious Blair, 11th grade.