: Interesting project.

: The high school 'environment' has changed a lot over the years.
: Before you get too involved in this project, check out the
: safety/workplace issues involved.
: Polyester resin (smells in the hallways, respirators, etc. ) or
: epoxy resin (sensitization, solvents) can both be problematical
: in boat-size quantities.
: I used to teach science, and the number of labs and demos that were
: permitted declined over time (some wisely, some not).

: There may also be liability concerns..."you gave my kid a boat
: and now he's drowned himself...." Again, another downside
: of modern living.

: Getting a good kayak design given to you may be tricky, but it's
: always worth a try. And, you definitely don't want to make
: multiple copies of a mediocre boat.

Thanks. Since it is a private school we have some wiggle room when it comes to this. I have already discussed with the principal of the school and those were topics we did discuss. We both felt that we might be able to offer the class as an elective that takes place on the weekends. The parents of the students would be required to sign liability waivers which are being drawn up by the diocese legal department. So we feel as though we have these topics covered. On top of it all I will conduct safety training so if the kids were ever in trouble they would know what to do.

I agree about the good kayak design. I have had some feedback from individuals I have asked however the designs appeared to be to mediocre at best. I would love to get a quality design that is stable in the water and something that the kids can have fun doing and learn the values of working together to get the project done.

Thanks for the response and if you have any other suggestions please do share.