At Mullan Road Elementary, teachers Julie Hoffmeyer and Amy Violette, along with librarian Amy Pontarolo, launched the Builders Club to give students a hands-on alternative to screen time. Inspired by conversations around “The Anxious Generation” — a 2024 book exploring rises in youth depression and anxiety alongside increased access to smartphones and social media — the club encourages kids to take risks, problem-solve, and work collaboratively through construction projects.
With generous support from community partners like RiverBank, Garco Construction, Alliant, and the Mullan Road PTG, as well as material donations from Spokane Discount Lumber, Affordable Northwest Construction, and Walsh Construction, the young builders learn essential tool skills with a strong focus on safety.
As they build confidence and demonstrate proficiency, students earn their very own “Tool Driver’s License,” gaining not just skills, but a sense of ownership and pride in their work. Volunteers from the North Coast Carpenters Union as well as Ferris High School have stepped in to help provide instruction.