Falcons craft Adirondack chairs

Students in Art Erbe's Construction Technology III class have completed 14 custom, handcrafted Adirondack chairs as part of their work-based learning here at Albany High.

To successfully obtain a Career and Technical Endorsement Diploma and certification, students must log a minimum of 54 work-based learning hours, which involves working directly with industry professionals and customers. 

"We spoke directly to the customers about what they wanted, what they wanted to do with the chairs," shared senior Dwayne McKenzie. "We also gave them insights about the different aspects of the wood—what the different benefits were and the different pricing that comes with the wood as well."

With this feedback, students established a materials list and worked with Curtis Lumber to price out the cost. Students then followed up with the customer to provide a quote.

Customers who decided to move forward ordered the supplies directly from the lumberyard and the materials were then delivered to Albany High. Each chair was built from start to finish by a pair of skilled and dedicated Falcons. 

"It gave me a great teamwork experience with my friends," stated senior Robert Castillo. "I got to do the measurements and tell them how to cut it, when to cut it. It was a great experience overall."

Enjoy these photos of our students with their beautifully completed chairs. While these aren't up for grabs, stay tuned for next year's work-based learning project that will be available for pre-order in the fall.