On Monday, June 8, three Wiscasset High School students, Michael Giles, Joshua Golden and Zach Reed, along with their math teacher, Linda Dygert, brought three window boxes to the Wiscasset Senior Center. The students had built the window boxes. At the Senior Center they filled them with annual flower plants for three lucky recipients.

Linda Dygert has used this project several times in the past. Linda described the project as follows:

“Math can be fun. Students at Wiscasset High School used their math skills to construct window boxes for three senior citizens. The students had to design the boxes and then make isometric and orthographic drawings of them, skills they learned in Technology Education. They had to figure the cost, buy the materials, and make the boxes. The paint for the boxes was donated by NC Hunt and the other materials were paid for by a grant from Delta Kappa Gamma. The flowers were donated by North of the Border. The students hope that the window boxes will be enjoyed throughout the summer and bring smiles to the faces of those who receive them.”

Several years ago when Linda Dygert first came to me with this idea to make the window boxes and present them to seniors who would enjoy them, I thought the idea was great. It was a way for the Senior Center and the high school to interact. It was a great way to connect youth and elders in a common interest that could lead to learning on both sides.

This was accomplished, but then I also realized there was an even greater benefit that could be gained from this project. The students could benefit from a practical lesson in how the world works.

Just think about the process they went through. The students had to design a product, understand the potential costs and profits, obtain funding and materials, manufacture a product, interact with the customer and finally enjoy the profit (in this case the joy of doing a good job plus the joy of bringing bright flowers into an older person’s life).

I remember a past student once saying something to the effect, “I made something that a stranger thought was good and worthwhile.” I think the three students, Michael Giles, Joshua Golden and Zach Reed who participated in the window box project this year should be very proud of their accomplishment too. Everyone needs to give teacher Linda Dygert a big thank you for making math fun for her students. She also has done a great job in inspiring her students to do something worthwhile while at the same time learning practical skills.

I was not able to coordinate this presentation of window boxes this year nor was I able to attend the presentation. I want to thank Bill Maloney and Patty Bridgham for doing all the coordinating.

The cribbage tournament winners on June 9 were Keith Bridgham first, Stuart Wyman second, Linden Simmons third, Arlene Steen low score and Keith Bridgham, Leol Corson and Blanche Johnson tied for the high. The cribbage tournament winners on June 11 were Arlene Steen first, Dick Barnard second, Gail Thayer third, Bob Gilman low score and Ken Colby had the high.

The next public supper, Wednesday, June 24, will feature garlic shrimp over pasta. Please call 207-882-8230 at least two days in advance for meal reservations.