Sophomore Erik Strusiewicz may be one of the only York Community High School students who carries his own business cards.
That’s because while other students are painting or playing the tuba, Erik is learning how to use printing presses in a graphic arts class.
Just the other day, he printed some forms for Sandburg Middle School.
He’s also done some outside jobs, like making business cards for a Warrenville moving company.
Although he was hesitant to sign up for the industrial technology course as a freshman, he’s already wondering if it holds a future for him.
“I’ve looked into it as a job, as a career,” he said. “Not many people really know how to run presses.”
Erik is a part of a group of students who are often overlooked in high school. Perhaps they’re not scoring touchdowns or shooting three-pointers, but they are putting their skills to work, whether by printing T-shirts or building a coffee table.
Each February, these students display some of their work in the school’s commons area.
“The students bring down their projects and show them off to the rest of the school,” said Ken Ross, an industrial technology teacher. “It’s really important for people to know what these students are capable of doing. It’s nice to get a pat on the back.”
The students all have their different reasons for what they build and why. Senior Tom Krakau works with a partner to make Adirondack chairs and sell them to friends and family members. Junior Shaun Layman has furnished his bedroom with a night stand and entertainment center.
“I purchased a futon recently. I just needed a coffee table to go with it,” he said, referring to his latest project.
Junior Joe Turk built a blanket chest for his grandmother.
“My dad built one for my mom when they got married. When my grandma saw it, she wanted one, so I kind of surprised her and built it for her,” he said. “I actually had to steal it away from her for the show.”
Joe also furnished a gun case out of plans for a bookshelf.
While the students spend the period on different projects, their reasons for taking the courses are similar.
“It takes your mind off of school,” Joe said. “It’s a break in the day and a fun way to challenge yourself.”
Tom enjoys the freedom the class gives students and the tangible results.
“I like starting with nothing and then making something nice,” he said. “I like being able to put something together with my hands.”
Ross said the industrial arts should serve that exact purpose.
“It gives them the opportunity to do something completely different. They’re taking what they learn and applying it; they’re taking it from conceptual and creating a product,” he said.
And that’s something a range of students can accomplish, he said.
“The biggest charge I get out of this is that our students are placed all over the (grade-point average) range. It levels the playing field. Our type of courses really helps the student who’s struggling academically but may be a real craftsman with his hands, and that’s what a comprehensive high school should do,” Ross said.