Kula, MAUI — Several Maui County parks are getting sturdy new benches thanks to students in King Kekaulike High School's Construction Academy, according to a news release.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares recently visited King Kekaulike to congratulate students on the completion of 12 new park benches for the County of Maui Parks and Recreation Department. The benches will replace current seating and provide additional seating at several County tennis courts.

"This is an outstanding example of a partnership that works," Tavares said. "The willingness and ability of our education and trade industry professionals to come together, provide a successful program and invest in the future of our students adds to the strength of our community. The program gives participants the opportunity to build confidence through gaining skills and becoming familiar with a valuable trade-I was impressed by the quality of workmanship and the commitment to excellence from start to finish. As a former teacher myself, I saw how this innovative project supports traditional classroom learning by utilizing reading, math and writing skills."

The project, led by Maui Community College instructor Andy Carson and King Kekaulike teacher Jim O'Brien, allows students to gain vital construction industry skills while learning the value of community service. Six benches have already been placed at the County's Kahului Community Center tennis facility. Six other benches will go to the War Memorial tennis courts, and there are plans for students to complete another six benches that will go to the Wells Park tennis courts in Wailuku.

"The students on this project were energized and enthusiastic," noted Maui Community College Instructor Andy Carson. "They learned about the entire construction process, from product design and construction to project completion. Students also learned about community service, and gained an understanding of the important contribution they made when they got to meet Mayor Tavares in person."

The Construction Academy was funded by an appropriation from the state Legislature. All seven high schools on the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lanai are taking part in this program. In the 2006-2007 school year, a total of 169 Maui County students were enrolled; in the 2007-08 school year, that number grew to 276. Five full-time Maui Community College faculty members partner with high school instructors to teach students professional construction skills. The hands-on learning projects integrate the use of math, reading and writing skills and require students to practice communication, problem solving and most importantly, teamwork. Final construction projects include picnic tables, benches, children's playhouses and storage sheds. Construction Academy students have the opportunity to earn Maui Community College credits for the classes they successfully complete in high school.