Students of Construction Technology Class Building 20th Home in Bondurant Community
December 14, 2021
According to Bondurant-Farrar Instructional Technology teacher Kyle Hammes, the best way to teach construction skills to students is to actually let students construct something. But, not just anything - an actual house.
“Nothing is better for students than to be on a real job-site, learning and practicing real-life skills. This form of learning helps our students explore and discover career possibilities and interests,” he said.
Twenty-two Bondurant-Farrar High School students accepted into this year’s construction technology class are working together to build the program's 20th house. In groups of 6-8, students learn on-location during two consecutive class periods, each averaging 90 minutes on-site daily.
Hammes, a 32 year veteran of the district, leads the program and has been involved since its inception in 1997. Since then, over a span of nearly 25 school years, students will have built 20 houses in the Bondurant community.
While many refer to it as the ‘construction house’ program, those involved see it as much more. “Students know this is more than a house, that this will be someone’s home. They are very proud of this and strive to build the best home possible,” said Hammes.
To enroll in the program, students must be a junior or senior and have completed Woods 1 in the industrial technology department. Students then complete and turn in an application for the program. Those accepted must complete OSHA’s 10-hour, online Construction Industry Safety Course.
While building under the supervision of Mr. Hammes, students have the unique opportunity to work with and alongside area tradesmen and contractors.
Traditionally, the first half of the school year is focused on the exterior construction including concrete, framing, windows, siding, roofing, and installation. Continuing on this progress, the second half of the school year typically includes a focus on electrical, HVAC, drywall, trim, cabinetry, painting, and floor covering.
This year’s home, located at 718 Lincoln Street NE in Bondurant, is being built in conjunction with Parks Custom Homes, a local builder based out of Des Moines. The main level features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and includes a great room design, kitchen island, and a covered exterior deck. The basement is set up for three future bedrooms, one bathroom, and a family room area. Click here to view blueprint documents.
Buyers are often surprised when they tour a student-built house. If contracted early enough, buyers will have choice on interior finishes. Those interested in purchasing may direct inquiries to Sheena Cochran-Foster of RE/MAX Hilltop by phone at 515-401-8398 or by email at sheenac@remax.net.
More photos on our Flickr account at flickr.com/photos/bfcsd/albums.