Redmond School District is proud to share the completion of a meaningful, student-led project at Vern Patrick Elementary.

Redmond High School construction class students led the effort to build an outdoor communication board designed to help younger students express themselves during recess. For many elementary students, particularly in busy and unstructured playground settings, it can be difficult to communicate with friends or share their needs with adults. This board provides an inclusive tool to help a student be heard.

Freshman Avery Hamlin described the hands-on work involved, saying, “We’ll be digging out some holes and pouring concrete to install the board.”

RHS Construction teacher Alan Wheeler highlighted the precision and effort required from students, saying, “Hardest part was digging in the Central Oregon soils so they have to do plumb, level and square.”

Senior Caden Thrasher shared “If a student doesn't understand how to say something to someone, then they can use this to help them communicate."

The impact of this work is especially clear during recess. “Being outside at recess, it’s a highly social time, so it’s difficult when you don’t have access to the words that you’re used to using,” said Debbie Williams, Speec Language Pathologist at Vern Patrick Elementary. 

We are grateful for Debbie’s coordination and dedication in bringing this vision to life.

Hamlin also reflected on how the project inspires others. “You feel you want to be a part of it and it’s really nice giving back to the community,” she said.

We also want to recognize the outstanding efforts of all the Redmond High School students who took on this project. Their leadership and willingness to give back to younger learners speaks volumes about the strength of our school community.

We extend our sincere thanks to Parr Lumber of Prineville for their generous donation of materials. Their support helped turn this idea into a reality and shows the value of strong community partnerships.

Together, this collaboration highlights what is possible when students, educators, and local businesses come together with a shared purpose. Every student deserves a way to be heard.