A collaborative learning experience at Bellefontaine High School is making a difference in our community.

BHS English students spent Tuesday morning painting several Logan County Metropolitan Housing Authority homes on Woodview Drive.

Eight students painted porches, including the posts and beams.

Teachers Rick Reed and Chris Miller are helping students earn their final English credit needed for graduation.

Miller teaches the English curriculum and Reed oversees the service learning/community service component.

The students will do service projects this school year with the following community partners:

- Logan County Metropolitan Housing Authority

- Bellefontaine Police Department

- Logan County Veterans Services

- Bellefontaine Elementary School

- Our Daily Bread

- Lutheran Community Services

- Bellefontaine Rotary Club

- Bellefontaine Parks and Recreation

After completing the project, students will write reflection papers.

They will also develop proposals to assist that community partner.

Finally, students will write an action plan and present the plan in class.

Metro Housing Deputy Director Josh Jones said, “This is a community learning experience that gives us a better visual presence in our neighborhood.”

Jones said the agency only has three maintenance workers.

The work being done by BHS students will allow the maintenance department to focus on larger projects.

Bellefontaine students will paint up to 50 porches over the next few weeks.

Reed and Miller spent the last six months working with BHS Principal Dr. Pam Noeth to develop the unique class.

Reed added, “The long term goal is to just keep serving our community and give our kids an authentic experience.

“We’re hoping we can get the students engaged in something that is bigger than themselves. We found that service improves their self-image and empathy for others.”

Photos: Bellefontaine English students paint Metro Housing porches on Woodview Drive on Tuesday.