With wood shavings on the ground and woodworking tools in hand, 5th grade students recently took on a challenge far beyond the typical classroom assignment: building a canoe from scratch.
Through a Community Engagement Grant proposed by Laura Trubilowicz P ’27 ’30 ’34, 5th grade students partnered with the Urban Wilderness Program to build a canoe by hand. The project connected directly to their reading of “Hatchet,” in which a young boy must survive in the wilderness using resilience, problem-solving, and determination. Instead of only analyzing those themes, students experienced them.
Over the course of the project, students worked together to design, measure, and construct a functional canoe, learning woodworking techniques and applying STEM concepts along the way. More importantly, they practiced patience, adaptability, and teamwork as they navigated challenges together. The experience also strengthened executive function skills such as planning, organization, and perseverance.
Students quickly realized the complexity of the work and the value of a growth mindset. “I used to think that canoes were easy to build,” said Mustafah Shembesh ’33. “But now I think it takes lots of practice, a growth mindset, and hard work.”
For many students, the project also deepened connections with classmates. “Building this canoe was important because it was a chance to make new friends and expand current friendships,” said Nate Pargeter ’33.
As students developed new technical skills, they also learned to reflect and improve. “At first it was hard,” said Joella Narakathu ’33. “But after some time, I improved and learned from my mistakes.”
The project will culminate with a test paddle, when students take their canoe out on the water alongside kayaks so everyone can participate in the experience.
This immersive experience reflects the purpose of the Community Engagement Grant, which is designed to deepen learning through meaningful, real-world connections.