Morgan City High students Marlan Francis, center left, and Tremain Vincent received plaques Tuesday from the City Council for their participation in a program in which they learn carpentry. They also performed projects for local residents. The plaques were presented by Councilman Tim Hymel, left, who is also the MCHS principal, and Councilman Ron Bias, second from right. Jeff Beverly of 100 Black Men of St. Mary Parish, far right, told the council about the program.
The Review/Bill Decker
Students praised for helping people as they learn
It’s a common metaphor for education and mentorship: building for the future.
A group of high school students, guided by 100 Black Men of St. Mary Parish, built something for the here and now: a porch and a handicap ramp for two local people.
The two participating students from Morgan City High School, Tremain Vincent and Marlan Francis, were recognized Tuesday by the City Council.
Students from Patterson, West St. Mary and Franklin Senior high schools also took part.
“This has been one of the most pleasant endeavors I’ve seen in my lifetime,” said Jeff Beverly of 100 Black Men.
The program taught the students carpentry. It included a weekend of training, followed by volunteer work on Saturdays.
Rain prevented the students from working one Saturday. So the students came in on Sunday, Beverly said.
They built a porch for a St. Mary man who is awaiting a liver transplant. And they built a handicap-access ramp at a woman’s home.
“Words cannot tell what they did,” Beverly said.
“If you can get a skill while you’re doing some good,” Mayor Lee Dragna said, “it’s a win-win.”