APS Students Build Lasting Legacy with New Board Room Table

Akron, OH (May 30, 2025) — Akron Public Schools (APS) proudly unveiled a stunning new boardroom table, a one-of-a-kind piece designed and built through the collaboration of APS staff, students and industry partners. The table was commissioned in late summer 2024 and reflects a year-long effort blending craftsmanship, design and real-world learning.

The table's architectural design and renderings were created by Jason Labovitz, a CCAA specialist in the department of College & Career Academies. Construction was led by APS master carpenter Christopher Gross.

"This table is more than furniture. it's a reflection of student learning, staff talent, and the power of community partnerships," said Superintendent Mary B. Outley.

Students from the Construction & Building Technology pathway at Garfield Community Learning Center (CLC) played a key role in the project. Over several weeks, they visited the APS carpentry shop on Grant Street to rough cut lumber and assist with assembly. Throughout the process, students gained hands-on experience with:

• Applying Formica to wood structures
• Routering Formica and wood
• Creating pocket holes for joinery
• Identifying and using different types of adhesive

Students from the Welding Technology pathway at East CLC contributed their skills by cutting and welding the steel support brackets that stabilize each section of the table. Each support bracket features a precision-cut, triangle-shaped district logo. A larger, prominently placed APS logo adorns the front of the table, serving as a centerpiece that reflects the district’s identity and pride. These custom elements not only add structural integrity but also elevate the table into a unique work of functional art.

During a recent board meeting, the spotlight turned to the students whose hands helped bring the table to life. Marcie Ebright, director of College & Career Academies of Akron, invited each scholar to the front of the room, proudly announcing their names along with their school and career pathway. The room filled with applause as students stood to be recognized for their craftsmanship and dedication. Ebright also shared that a permanent plaque honoring every contributor will soon be installed as a lasting tribute to the talent and teamwork behind this remarkable project.

Key design and fabrication contributions added a professional finish to the project, thanks to WardJet AAG’s generous donation of time, expertise and precision waterjet cutting equipment. The district also honored Nate Ruyan for his creative direction and pivotal role in guiding the table’s unique design, Nate ensured it not only stands as a functional piece but as a lasting symbol of district pride.

“We are incredibly proud of our scholars, staff and business partners,” added Board President Carla Jackson. “This table is a lasting symbol of creativity, collaboration and excellence that will serve APS for years to come.”

Students from Garfield CLC in the Construction & Building Technology pathway - in the ACME Fresh Market Academy of Innovation and Industry

Travis Elder

Orvis Mendez Gomez

Jessica Rodgers

Gilberto Quintana-Mendez

Korey Alberts

Cameron Rivers

Omar Tawil

Darvon Wallace

Pele Cameron

Roy Bell

Nathaniel Evans

Breshaun Nichols

Students from East CLC in the Welding Technology pathway - in the Bridgestone Academy of Applied Engineering and Technology

Karlee Howe

Carlos Loskofsky

Jayden Parker

Marquis Terrell

Phoenix Valentine

Marcus Henderson

Davyon Jones

Thomas Kinney

Dylian Spinks

Janai Suggs-Curley

Nathaniel Diaz

Nathaniel Keyser

Donovan Neese

Employees from the Department of Facility Services

Darian Johnson, facilities services supervisor

Eric Bennet, carpenter

Chris Gross, carpenter

Rick Skinner, carpenter foreman

Jason Ede, inventory specialist

Jason Dickerson, audio visual foreman

Mark Anderson, electric shop foreman

Mike Dove, audio visual repairman

 

 

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