Fullerton School District Celebrates Completion of Third Student-Built Tiny Home

Fullerton School District students, staff and community partners gathered at Nicolas Junior High School on May 22 to cut the ribbon on the District’s third student-built Tiny Home, celebrating a project that blends real-world learning with meaningful community impact.

Clad in hardhats, yellow safety vests and protective glasses, dozens of eighth-grade students in the school’s Construction Academy stood alongside donors, community supporters and District leaders to mark the milestone achievement.

Built entirely by woodshop students, the fully furnished, code-compliant 192-square-foot Tiny Home – complete with two beds, a small kitchen, bathroom and living space – will provide temporary housing for a District family experiencing homelessness.

“When we first started this project, I was scared I wasn’t going to do good work but in the end, I managed to learn and do a lot,” Yoana M., a Nicolas eighth-grader, said. “I am proud of this project, especially knowing that it’s going to be an actual house for someone who needs it.”

The Tiny Home Project launched in 2022 as an innovative learning experience for students while supporting families in need. The first Tiny Home opened in May 2024, followed by a second in May 2025.

“This program represents the very best of what education can be – hands-on, purpose-driven and rooted in community,” Interim Superintendent Chad Hammitt, Ed.D., said. “It’s an extraordinary example of innovation, compassion and student achievement.”

The Construction Academy is part of the District’s growing Career Technical Education offerings, giving middle school students early exposure to careers in construction and skilled trades through hands-on, project-based learning.

Under the guidance of woodshop teacher Mucio Vidales, students help build the homes from the ground up while learning skills such as framing, electrical work, plumbing, flooring and painting.

“I am very proud of my  students and what they’ve accomplished this year,” Vidales said. “It’s rewarding to see them practice trade skills while receiving support from a community that believes in what they’re building.”

The District will expand the Tiny Home Project through 2029 thanks to a $525,000 grant from the Orange County Department of Education to support materials, tools, student learning opportunities and resources for families as they work toward long-term stability.