Democracy project leads to new school sign

Over the past several years Trace Stone, the U.S. government teacher at Seeley-Swan High School (SSHS), has been looking at the school sign every morning and thinking of ways to improve it. This year he was able to finally create and install a new one with the help of students and members of the community.

"I hope this adds charm to our school and inspires students to undertake further projects that will enhance the school and community." Stone said.

A group of seniors taking the U.S. government class, which Stone teaches, decided to take on the task as part of a project to make practical improvements to the town.

Installing the new school sign was one of three different "Democracy Projects" the high school seniors worked on throughout the town of Seeley Lake.

Two other student groups worked on improving the new Seeley Lake Elementary School playground and building a ramp at the snowmobile trailhead for winter recreation.

Creating and installing the school sign proved to be a big project, but Stone and his students persevered and put in the work with the help of other skilled students throughout the school.

When completed, the new metal sign will hang from a large stained wooden frame, welcoming people to the front drive of SSHS. Around the base of the sign posts will be a garden enclosed by a two foot rock wall.

"I'm hoping this will kind of dress up the place, make it a little bit more inspiring," said Stone.

Cole Henrekin of Peak Fabrications, a graduate of SSHS, designed and produced the sign himself. Wood for the posts was donated by a local supplier. With generous help from Peak Fabrication, The Lodges, Nature Scapes, Timberline Building Materials, and several shop students Stone and his U.S. government team were able to make quick progress on the new sign.

The sign was temporarily hung for senior graduation on June 4, but was later taken down for some finishing touches. It will be permanently installed later this summer.