PENDLETON — Middle school is a time when children start to figure out their interests. Students in Pendleton got to try out construction, learning how to work with their hands.

The Madison County Builders Association sponsored Trades Day at Pendleton Heights Middle School on Friday. The students, under the guidance of industry professionals, performed tasks such as assembling a table or settling concrete.

It is the second time Trades Day has come to Pendleton, but it is especially significant now because of changes to Indiana's education system made in the Statehouse this year.
"They're deciding if they're taking the college pathway or the career pathway, and that is decided by February of 8th grade," said Karen Shreves of the Madison County Builders Association.

Shreves said they are planning to expand Trades Day to more schools next year because of the newfound relevance of trades careers in K-12 education.
"By allowing the children the opportunity, the trades become less alien to them," Shreves said.

The projects made by Pendleton Heights Middle School students during Trades Day will remain on display at the school.
-
Fatal shooting sparks short-term rental safety concerns
An early Sunday shooting that killed a woman and injured two people has been linked to a short-term rental, raising new safety concerns.
IHSAA approves student athletes to benefit from name, image and likeness
The IHSAA Board of Directors, passing with a 13-5 vote, approved student athletes to be able to benefit from their name, image and likeness starting in the 2026-27 school year.
Counties report big increase in early voter turnout
Some of central Indiana's most populous counties ended early voting on Monday with totals well above the past two years.
Former Notre Dame guard Burton becomes one of top transfers to join Indiana
All-conference point guard Markus Burton has officially joined the Indiana Hoosiers from Notre Dame, second-year coach Darian DeVries announced Monday.