Students from Ashwaubenon High School’s technology education program are putting their classroom skills to work in the community. Over the past few months, the class has fabricated a series of oversized metal candy canes that will become the centerpiece of the NEW Zoo and Adventure Park’s holiday celebration.
From classroom projects to a public‑spirit showcase
Last year the same group of tech‑ed students built giant snowflakes that adorned the zoo’s winter walk. This year, under the guidance of teacher Jonathan Butler, the class turned its attention to a new festive theme. Using metalworking tools and design software, the students constructed candy‑cane‑shaped structures that stand several feet tall. Once completed, the pieces were shipped to the zoo, where volunteers will arrange them along the pathway for the annual “Merry and Bright Canopy Lights” tour.
“They absolutely love it,” Butler said. “This gives them an opportunity to take the skills that they learn in my class and actually transfer them into the real world and help out their community in the same way.” The teacher’s comment highlights the program’s dual focus on technical proficiency and civic responsibility, values that resonate strongly with families in the area.
Holiday tradition at the NEW Zoo
The NEW Zoo’s “Merry and Bright Canopy Lights” event runs after‑hours on select evenings from November 27 through January 2. Visitors can stroll the illuminated winter walkway, now flanked by the gleaming candy‑cane forest, while enjoying seasonal music, light displays, and warm refreshments. The zoo expects the new installation to draw larger crowds, offering a family‑friendly outing that reinforces community pride.
Local officials have praised the partnership between the zoo and the high school. Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich noted that collaborations like this “showcase the talent of our young people and bring joy to families across the region.” The project also aligns with the city’s broader effort to promote hands‑on education and support local schools.
Supporting STEM and community values
Beyond the festive décor, the candy‑cane project serves as a practical example of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in action. By designing, fabricating, and installing a public art piece, the students gain real‑world experience that complements classroom theory. Parents and community members have expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that it reinforces the importance of skill‑based learning and civic engagement.
As the holiday season approaches, families are encouraged to attend the NEW Zoo’s evening tours, enjoy the candy‑cane forest, and support the young makers who helped bring the display to life. Tickets and schedule details are available on the zoo’s website.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
