Pattonville High School students interested in engineering, architecture, design, construction and business got a behind the scenes look at the Bridgeton Target remodel on Sept. 15. 

ConstructReach, a construction industry workforce development initiative and consultancy, hosted an “I Built This!” event on Sept. 15 in Bridgeton outside the Target store that is in Week 13 of a 20-week renovation project. 

About 40 Pattonville High School students joined teenagers from neighboring school districts to learn about the construction industry and engage in hands-on activities, including those related to carpentry, fixturing, design and technology, mechanical and plumbing.

The U.S. Army brought a robotics trailer to Pattonville High School on Tuesday to showcase and demonstrate real-world application of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and robotics capability through personal student interaction. 

Students were able to get hands-on experience with equipment engineered and utilized by the Army. 

“An EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) specialist disables and defeats explosive devices and weapons of mass destruction,” U.S. Army First Sergeant Barrett Hansen said.

Each student had an opportunity to operate the robot, picking up a simulated explosive device and moving it around with the robot’s arm and grapple. 

On Sept. 20, Pattonville School District began work with parents, students, community members, staff and area leaders to update its strategic plan during its first CSIP (Comprehensive School Improvement Plan) meeting of the year. The updated plan will focus on ensuring all students are successful both in school and beyond and planning for and addressing any critical issues that may arise. Pattonville updates its strategic plan every five years.

Senior Ashley Shaw pulled up the drink orders that were placed online this morning and senior Qua’Shaun Lawson removed the “Sorry, We’re Closed” signs from the front of the coffee machines in Room C212. Class was about to start and the students were already getting to work. 

The students enrolled in the Community Based Vocational Instruction (CBVI) program at Pattonville High School run a coffee shop for staff members who can place orders online and have it delivered every morning during second hour. Staff can choose the coffee, tea, hot chocolate or soda flavor they want and request any extras like creamer and sweetener. The cost is just $1 per item.

The coffee shop opened in 2017 and Special School District teacher Carrie Cobb said the students are learning important job skills.