Grant to fund demolition derby project

JOHN WRIGHT

SALINEVILLE — The Utica Shale Academy has earned a 2024-25 Best Practice Grant through the Jefferson County Educational Service Center to support a smashing project for its students.

The community school obtained a $700 allocation for its Demolition Derby Cars through PBIS project through the annual grant program. Welding instructor John Wright explained that high school seniors have an opportunity to build and race demolition derby cars. The project impacts up to 10 students and incorporates welding and electrical certifications with hands-on learning. Additionally, it promotes positive behavior through positive behavior interventions and supports and rewards students with good attendance, no discipline issues and active participation.

Wright continued that a demolition derby car is purchased along with the necessary materials to ensure safety for competition. Students apply their welding and electrical skills to prepare the car and the project promotes hands-on learning aligned with industry standards.

“Students will work as teams building derby cars to participate in a local derby competition,” he added, saying the grant was his first and will build teamwork and learning skills. “I’m really excited about receiving this grant because it will help the students greatly in building these cars, and as excited as they already are, it will make their learning experience a greater one.”

JCESC Superintendent Chuck Kokiko said the purpose of the grant initiative was to promote innovative ideas in the classroom.

“The JCESC has supported efforts of our classroom teachers to bring forth insightful, innovative projects to fuel the students’ minds and improve upon their education, and the best practice grants enable them to put those ideas into practice,” Kokiko added. “Every year, our district teachers continue to find unique methods for their classroom. We appreciate their hard work and are pleased to provide these opportunities and promote such creativity.”

Utica Shale Academy has garnered 10 best practice grants during the past decade to support at-risk students in their quest to obtain trade certifications and a high school diploma through a career-tech education and enter the modern workforce. Other recipients included Buckeye Local, Edison Local, Harrison Hills City, Indian Creek Local, Southern Local, Steubenville City and Toronto City school districts.

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