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.
-
Indy mother faces charges after baby's death, adds to growing neglect cases
The death of a 4-month-old girl has added to a growing list of child neglect cases in Marion County.Pacers gear up for Eastern Conference Finals amidst Indy 500 excitement
As the Indiana Pacers prepare to make their mark in the Eastern Conference Finals, all eyes are on Indianapolis—not just for basketball, but for the upcoming 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500.24-year-old woman dead after shooting on Indy's east side
A woman is dead after being shot on the east side of Indianapolis Wednesday night. Detectives believe a disturbance occurred in the parking lot before the shooting occurred.Registration open for IMPD Teen Academy, campers excited for G.R.E.A.T camp
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is making an effort to keep kids on the right track this summer.