Hamilton High School’s new Ignite program is already making a meaningful impact on students and the community. This year, 13 high school students are partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Kent County, spending time each week on active build sites where they’re learning hands-on construction skills while contributing to affordable housing projects across West Michigan.
“Five and an eighth. Don’t forget it,” Ignite teacher Cody Buresh called out as the group worked through siding measurements on a cold morning at one of Habitat’s Kent County project homes in downtown Grand Rapids. With guidance from Habitat staff, volunteers, and Hamilton staff members Cody Buresh and Jeremy Vance, students spent the day putting up siding, learning proper cuts and measurements, and even helping with insulation and interior tasks. For many of them, it was their first time experiencing real construction work.
“We’ve got the kids from Hamilton High School up here helping out, doing a bunch of things,” said Don Perry, site supervisor for Habitat for Humanity. “We’re putting siding up and then they're also doing various things inside."
Several students shared that the experience is helping them consider future careers. “I want to do construction long-term most likely,” said Tyler, a sophomore at Hamilton High School. “Learning at a young age will just help in the future. I’ve learned how to do siding. I’ve never done siding and insulation before," added Joseph, a freshman in the program.
Others emphasized how valuable the hands-on learning has been beyond the classroom. “There are different kinds of drills, how to use those, how to build, how to measure really well, how to cut, how to saw stuff,” said Jacob, freshman. “It’s a great opportunity to learn more about real work in the world.”
The partnership with Habitat for Humanity Kent County has quickly proven to be beneficial for both sides. “I really think this is a very important thing that Hamilton School is doing,” added Perry. “It’s a really great partnership as far as we’re concerned. It gives us an opportunity to impact the next generation and give them certain skills they need to survive. Not everyone out there is going to be a doctor or a lawyer or a banker or a businessman — and you can make a really good living at this.”
Students have already completed tasks including roofing, siding, insulation, and even wrapping water and heating pipes to prevent freezing. Returning to the same project over multiple weeks has allowed them to build confidence and competence. “It’s cool because you see kids be more confident once they get to redo a similar skill,” said Buresh. “They’ve gotten better at it, more confident, and that’s cool to see — not just as individuals, but as a group.”
The experience has also given the students a chance to step outside of their day-to-day school environment and into a different community. “Partnering with Habitat for Humanity Kent County has been a really cool opportunity for our kids,” Buresh added, “It’s almost cooler getting outside of our little Hamilton community and getting into a community that we might not have as much interaction with. Being able to take this opportunity to learn these skills in a new environment has been really cool.”
Some students already see the long-term value. “Probably a construction or diesel mechanic,” added a student. “This helps me get introduced to it.” Another added, “It’s important because in the future, if I have to do siding or simple insulation, I’ll know what to do.”
Whether they pursue skilled trades or another path, Ignite students are gaining real-world experience, confidence, and a sense of contribution. “Giving back to the community is amazing,” said another student, “It’s a good look for our school.”
Hamilton High School’s Ignite program continues to grow, offering meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for purpose while making a positive difference in West Michigan.
Learn more about the Hamilton High School Ignite program from the H2Know Podcast.
