Orin C. Smith Elementary students are enjoying their brand new school this fall thanks to the voter-approved capital facilities bond that made it possible. Recently, students had a special opportunity to learn how their new school was built, from the construction professionals who built it. During a special school assembly, students met FORMA Construction Project Manager Alex Chicano, along with others who worked on the new school project, including: FORMA carpenter, Mark Cline; McGranahan architect, Mark Bergquist; and Travers Electric electrician, Dean Bringolf. Each person shared their role in the construction of the building along with the education and hard work it took to obtain a job in their profession. Students enjoyed seeing photos of many different phases of the Orin Smith Elementary building process and were also introduced to all types of trades/professions that were involved in the building of their new school.

Career and college preparation activities such as this are part of the Student Achievement Initiative with a Career and College Readiness focus. Chehalis School District’s goal is to prepare graduates to succeed in a meaningful career and/or college degree post-graduation. Aware, eligible and prepared = ready.