On Friday, January 9, Diamond Oaks welcomed eighth graders from Rapid Run, Delhi, Taylor, Harrison, and Mt. Healthy for an exciting day of exploration. Students got a sneak peek at the 19 career programs we offer and experienced hands-on demonstrations. A big thank-you to our Diamond Oaks students who volunteered their time to assist instructors and showcase their skills. Your leadership and professionalism made the day a success and gave future students a glimpse of what it means to be NextReady!

Students of the Month were honored at a luncheon attended by their lab teachers, homeschool representatives, and their families. Great job!

The Construction Juniors have been doing great work as we dive into the important topic of Footings and Foundations, learning how they support a structure and transfer loads safely to the ground. Students have explored different foundation types, materials, and why proper layout and preparation are critical to a successful build. Next, we will move upward in the construction process and begin studying floor framing, where we’ll learn how joists, beams, and subfloor systems create a strong, level base for the rest of the structure. This next unit will build directly on what we’ve learned so far and help students better understand how a house comes together from the ground up.

Senior Construction Students have recently completed their work on drywall finishing, developing skills in taping, mudding, sanding, and achieving smooth, professional surfaces. Earlier, students successfully installed the windows and doors, learning proper layout, leveling, plumbing, and fastening techniques to ensure correct operation and weather tightness. We are now moving into trimming out windows and doors, where students are focusing on accurate measuring, precise cuts, and installing casing for a clean, finished look. This phase of construction emphasizes attention to detail, craftsmanship, and real-world jobsite skills that help bring a project from the rough stage to a polished final appearance.

I’d like to recognize our students of the month, both Juniors – Henry Hickey and Kaydan Peelman who are top students in my class.