Since school started, one of the busiest classes on campus has been Sue Corrigan's fifth period vocational preparation class, but Corrigan didn't plan it that way.
Last year FHS saw the creation of a complete recycling program by the special education program, a project that put students' hearts and hands into making FHS a less wasteful campus and community.
"Vocational Prep recycles everything from computer paper to newspaper fliers," said Corrigan.
Bins are located at various locations throughout the school. Outside the publications office (H-10) are six green bins for disposing of papers, clean plastics, magazines and cardboard. Bins for recycling pop cans are located in the foyer, cafeteria, and some teachers' rooms.
One of the problems Corrigan has faced is simply getting students and staff to put their cans in the bins
"I think (the program) is great," said senior Kristi Burtch. "(In the past) there have been a lot of cans wasted."
The new wave in conservation that has hit the school excites Corrigan. The recycling program will be the primary curriculum for her Vocational Prep class.
Senior worker Mandi Lengstorf describes the project as a good time.
"On Mondays we go to the recycling center and empty the van," said Lengstorf. "It's fun because we get out of school."
The FHS vocational prep students have brought in 330 pounds of paper already this year.
The program gladly accepts help from the community.
"Anybody in the community can bring their recyclables down to the recycling center and it can get credited to the FHS account," said Corrigan.
She points out that this project doesn't pay well, but the students learn job skills.
The profit is going to be split between doing something fun for the workers and helping the school.
Some of their ideas are a pizza party or a bowling day for the workers. They are looking into buying a picnic table for senior square, a shelter for bus students or fans for all the classrooms.
"I want them to be part of FHS and realize that everybody in the school is contributing," says Corrigan. "They need to share something with the school."
"The recycling program is a definite plus for the school," said senior and student body vice
president Brian Brekke. "The special education kids should be commended."