(Chinook's Edge School Division)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

"COMMUNICATION IS KEY"

Delburne students race to the finish line in annual Soapbox Derby

Jun 3, 2024 | 3:59 PM

Delburne School’s annual Soapbox Derby returned for its 10th year on May 31, continuing a decade-long tradition that connects students with the community.

“The students look forward to the Soapbox Derby every year,” said Cheryle Bourne, the teacher who leads the project at Delburne School. “They love building their own vehicle and the day of the race is always exciting. Our community is very supportive and we are grateful.”

Preparation for the highly-anticipated derby began months ahead of time, as the eighth-grade students received build kits from Manitoba and plywood, both of which were used to construct their derby vehicle from scratch.

The project was completed in pairs and each team needed to find local businesses to sponsor the builds, plus serve on one of the various committees responsible for arranging the big day.

This year, 15 cars competed in a double elimination event, with some racing neck-and-neck right to the finish line, and others losing their wheels and marking a clear winner partway down the track. In between heats, younger students overtook the street with dance-offs.

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Bourne’s inspiration for the event came from the implementation of Career and Technology Foundations (CTF) courses for junior high students. She saw the potential for students to learn building and construction, which fulfilled a CTF requirement; math, through measuring; and english, via sponsorship letters, all within the same project.

“I liked that we got to pick our own partners, and design our own cars,” said Juliet Williams, a student who participated. “We got to be in control. It helps us prepare for the future and get ready for a job. It gives us an idea about being adults and managing money and being responsible.” Williams also said she learned that “communication is key” when working with a partner.

Dozens of community members showed up to observe and cheer-on this year’s event, with some supporters even travelling from other municipalities.

“This teaches the students so many things, like using math and tools and assembly skills. Also, it’s about connection. It brings a lot together in a little town,” said Delburne resident and grandparent Cheryl Babb.

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