I received this email below. Perhaps some of you can help out with young kids carrying on the torch? It seems like an email to them would be appropriate if you can help them. - koolkat Adams Middle School Auto Shop Bryan D. Boyd Ed.D. bboyd@brentwood.k12.ca.us profboyd@gmail.com 401 American Ave Brentwood, CA 94513-4611 (925) 513-6450 Ext. 4429 Donations: This is a new program we are starting with a limited budget. We respectfully request anything that you can donate to our program, stickers, catalogs, defective parts, anything that can introduce students to the world of mechanics. About Us: Shop Manager, Principal Vernoy Lead Mechanic: Bryan D. Boyd, Ed.D Purpose Statement: This program allows students an opportunity to learn about engines, carburetion, and mechanical machines. They will learn about a stove bolt six, beehive filters, and cam shafts. Most of all, students will learn how to work with their hands- while building self confidence in a safe environment. The Need As California cuts funding, some of the first programs to dissolve are vocational track classes. This would be a great opportunity for students who are interested in machines, models, or working with his/her hands. This program will allow students to connect with the school community on a different level. Progressive Learning It is my hope that students will gain enough knowledge to create, design, and build a gas powered miniature car, boat, or plane; change oil, and change a tire.
Too bad, I have 2 FWD transmissions sitting in my garage that I need to get rid of. They would make great projects for the kids, but they would be expensive to ship, especially the 200 pounder.
Thanks for responding. 51 reads and nobody other than you even had any comments. I would have thought there would have been some Northern California HAMBer's interested in helping kids. I'm disappointed that I was wrong. I'm originally from the Twin Cities also, but many many moons ago. Lot's of car guys there. Thanks for having an interest in kids learning more about our hobby.
i would help but sadly I got nada to give up... the old man has a shit carb here but my very own apprentice mechanic tears it down and builds it again on a weekly basis... I figure I keep training him he'll be able to make me some money rebuilding carbs locally when he turns five... lol maybe they should organize a run or something to raise awareness... i would drive up there for that...
I think it is a very good idea! I'm a couple of hours downstate. I don't have any stuff or $ to donate but I love the idea. I've got the sign from my Dad's post WWII shop and his old toolboxes and some of his tools, but I'm gonna keep that stuff. Wish I was closer!
To get started try this: Have each student bring in an from home that isn't working and they repair it in class. Start out with things like lawn mowers, etc and then move up into large automobile items. Contact you local "junk yard" or car dealer and ask then to donate a "CLUNKER" - before they destroy it or the engine. Then give them a free add in your school newsletter, newspaper. Set up an interview with your local radio and TV stations so as to let the public know what you are trying to do. Proper PR is the way to go, FIRST.
The first e-mail address was "bounced" by the internet server. I tried the "gmail" address...stay tuned...
Is this you..........?? http://www.brentwood.k12.ca.us/Adams/Teachers/bboyd/HW/hw_homepage.html I am not trying be A** but coming back with a remark like "nobody wants to help kids" Is a bit sarcastic sounding. Especially since it was less then an hour from your original post. Please dont take this the wrong way but you have to be careful nowadays. I applaud you and would offer my services if you were close,. There are many people that want to help out at schools and with kids but bureaucracy- time - money get in the way. As I am sure you see. Good luck we need more interest in the Trades and people like you can get kids back on the path.
Hello my name is Bryan Thank you to Ol SKool Rodz Magazine for all of their support and your kind responses. I am in the process of building the program and what it will look like. Your kind words of support and help have been great. Special thanks to Kool kat for this posting. You're the best! If you would like to email me please profboyd@gmail.com we have a strict email blocker at my school site. Thanks again, Bryan
Is this a class or an after school activity? A good project for a class is a rebuild of a 4 cycle gas engine. You can usually get them from Craigs List, hardware stores, repair shops and manufacturers (Briggs & Stratton )It can take 4-9 weeks of lab time to accomplish. A donated car can be used for maintenance demonstrations. You can find these on C/L or as a tax deduction donation. Try to keep your shop organizes and clean, not a junk yard. Too many projects/ cars will lead to a bad impression and student behavior problems. The HAMB is an excellant source of information but isnt really interested in kids and schools. I have gotten excellant answers to problems we have with our 1935 Ford pickup project.You have to work hard and do a bunch of dumpster diving to provide materials and funds. Good Luck and let me know if you need advice. Thanks, Bill
Bill,has it been that long ago? Don't you remember HAMBANDY?,,he was a kid we all loved and cared for and as I remember recieved parts and donations from around the world. You have pointed out good sources for donations but a lotta guys here help kids in their own corner of the world with inspiration and help with projects. HRP
Good luck on your project, I wish I would have had something like that when I was in school. Luckily a friends dad owned a machine shop and by the time I was 12 I was removing cam bearings and freeze plugs and boiling blocks. 30 years later I'm a Maintenance mechanic at a chemical plant.I'm sure you can get some help locally to help with your mission.
search: "automotive class" on here and you will see the same boat i am in. I bid you good luck. pm me if you want.
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