Four students from the district's health-science classes presented a trimester-long, project-based learning assignment to the board, describing a 12-week process that culminated in a 3D model of a rehabilitation facility and a public showcase judged by local health-care professionals.

Summer Crews, one of the district's health-science instructors, introduced the student group and said the project was the first time the course used this extended, hands-on approach. "Our goal was really for them to take that content and look at our area that is growing very much and see that we do have a need for different types of facilities," Crews said.

Students described their process in short statements at the board meeting. Cheyenne, representing North Hardin, and classmates Chloe, Amaya and Millie said the group used weekly chapters from the health-science curriculum to design staffing, infection-control, emergency procedures, payment structures and cultural-practice guidance for their facility. Millie described serving as group leader and delegating tasks; another student said she built the 3D components of the model.

Teachers told the board the showcase drew about 60 community members and a panel of local professionals who provided feedback. Monica Hall, the other health-science instructor, said the project included roundtable interviews with professionals from nursing homes, the hospital and Lincoln Trail, which let students integrate real-world information into their designs. "They were able to interview them, receive the knowledge, and then showcase that," Hall said.

Board members asked students about teamwork and public speaking; several students said the project made classroom content feel more relevant and helped them practice oral communication skills.

Ending: Teachers said the district will refine the project but considered the first trimester a success in building communication, professionalism and career awareness among freshmen and sophomores.