SAINT JOHNS, Mich. — St. Johns Public School district has announced that their Wood Technology program at Saint Johns High School has been awarded $19,950 grant from the Architectural Woodwork Institute's (AWI) Academic Grant Program. The Wood Technology class looks to purchase a new planer and wide belt sander, essential machines that will help students and faculty modernize the shop and ensure that students graduate with the skills and experience necessary to be industry ready.

"I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to AWI for their commitment to advancing woodworking education and supporting the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Their investment in our program will have a lasting impact on our students’ career pathways and our community as a whole," says Wood Technology Teacher Neil Feldpausch. 

"A special thank you also goes out to Lee Klein, owner of Klein Cabinets and Interiors, for pointing me toward this grant opportunity and for writing the letter of recommendation that helped secure this funding. Lee’s guidance and generosity with his time exemplify the partnership between local industry and education that is so crucial to the success of our program."