Confederation students build houses in Chile during March Break

A group of students from Confederation Secondary School, two teachers and a volunteer parent are embarking on a truly unique experience during this year’s March Break, which takes place from March 7 to 14, 2008. They’ll be heading to Chile to build houses as part of a Habitat for Humanity project in one of the poorest areas of the world.

“By North American standards, the homes being constructed are quite modest,” says teacher Jana Armstrong.  “Many new homes in the Sudbury area easily exceed 2,000 square feet and are comprised of many extravagances.” She adds: “The homes being constructed under this program are a very tiny 193 square feet and will consist of two rooms.  After the home is complete, the owners can build their own bathroom facilities, if they wish to do so.”

Teacher Jennifer Stobo says although very spartan by Canadian standards, these homes will definitely change lives.  “Participating families benefiting from this program are typically single-parent homes or those that have a very low income.  Many currently live in dilapidated shacks, so these houses will certainly enhance their quality of life.”

The students participating in this exciting opportunity, a first for Confederation Secondary School, will get a better understanding of world issues and make a difference on a global level. Participants include Steven McAnulty, Erica Richard, Jessica Carson, Tammy Beaton, Kayla Aelick, Elizabeth Beattie and Michelle Leger – students in Grades 10 to 12.

“The students will benefit immensely from this experience,” say their teachers. “They will not only learn construction skills, they will also learn team building and cooperation skills. They will see how others live and, in the process, will certainly gain a renewed sense of appreciation for what they have.” From a curriculum perspective, the journey will enhance what’s taught in the classroom in a number of subject areas, from citizenship and history to geography and technological education.

“Character development is also an important part of what we teach students in Rainbow Schools,” says Confederation Secondary School Principal Mike Mirka. “Character development is all about instilling strong values in young people and building responsible and respectful citizens who care about the world in which they live.”

Leaving on Wednesday, March 5th, the group will travel to the Casablanca Valley, an area approximately 75 kilometres northwest of the city of Santiago. They will return home on March 14th.

Fundraising has been a big part of this effort. Students and staff have been busy since last September organizing yard sales and a volleyball game and selling an endless amount of chocolate bars and cookie dough. Electric Vehicle Controllers is a corporate sponsor. “We thank the community for supporting our students’ fundraising events,” says Principal Mirka. “With local support, our students will benefit from a truly unique learning experience.”

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Media Contact:

Mike Mirka, Principal, Confederation Secondary School,

Rainbow District School Board, 705-897-4985.