Every February, 4th grade students in Washougal School District participate in a unique hands-on experience: building their own wooden toolboxes. The project pairs elementary students with high school and adult mentors to build real-world skills.
Students measure, assemble, and problem-solve as they turn raw materials into finished toolboxes. The project combines math skills like measuring lengths and understanding angles with hands-on practice using real tools, like hammers, nails, and measuring tapes. The project builds confidence and perseverance as students see a tangible result from their hard work.
High school Career & Technical Education (CTE) students play a key mentorship role by modeling safe tool use, explaining construction techniques, and encouraging younger students throughout the process. The high school students also cut and prepare the toolbox kit pieces for the elementary students ahead of the activity. The leadership opportunity reinforces real-world leadership and communication skills.
Community volunteers and school staff support the work by supervising stations and guiding the lesson. The project highlights the power of mentorship and hands-on learning to build both practical skills and lasting confidence.
Washougal School District’s Career & Technical Education programs focus on building job-readiness skills students can apply in the real world. The program is shaped in partnership with a Career & Technical Education Advisory Committee made up of local industry professionals, helping to align job-readiness lessons with current workforce expectations. Learn more at https://www.washougal.k12.wa.us/cte/
