For students in the student-built house program, the job site is a classroom. These kids learn all about the different tools and trades, and learn how to build a house together. With their team, they burn through the sweat, dust, and chaos. This program gives high school students the opportunity to gain experience building houses and provide quality homes to the community. According to teacher Vince Roth, the program began in the 1980s and was restarted in 2023 after stopping in the early 2000s. 

“We are providing quality housing in areas of need and building homes on lots that have previously been developed. We are helping to build an affordable home for the Iowa City community,” Roth said.

As well as providing for the community, the program also helps students build skills in trade and construction. One student in the program is Jason Lippe ‘27. Lippe likes the ability to gain experience for job opportunities.

“You get to work with the professionals, and you get to learn the steps to build the house and what professionals build that day,” Lippe said. “It means a lot to me; it gives me valuable skills for my future jobs.” 

Students head to the job site in the morning/afternoon, working for about 2 hours. The school provides students with transportation to both the lot and the shop located near the Iowa City Airport. 

The team consists of students from all of Iowa City, including City High, West, Liberty, and Tate. Milton Chandler ‘26 is another student in the program learning about how to build different parts of the house and working with new people.

“I get to work with other students from other schools. We learn how to build the duct seal and the science behind it.” Chandler said. 

The program is a year-round course open to all high school students, but it is recommended to take it during junior or senior year.