NILES — Eleven years ago, nine members of the Future Educators of America at Hubbard High School made their first trip to Fairhaven Industries to host the inaugural Hubbard Art Day with the preschool and workshop students.

Earlier this month, the 20th Hubbard Art Day included a group of 25 students from every grade level at Hubbard High School. There were six craft stations where the Fairhaven students could make beaded bracelets, coloring books, brown paper bunny bags to hold their crafts, a rainbow, a flower and ladybugs.

“There are no two better days of my school year than watching how much joy our students get out of this,” Hubbard’s FEA coordinator Josh MacMillan said. “That is thanks to the hospitality of Fairhaven School and its staff while the Hubbard students interact and teach the preschool and workshop students. When we are able to give our kids a chance to show genuine kindness and compassion with others, those are the days I believe our students will never forget.”

The Hubbard students visit the Niles school in the spring and fall.

MacMillan and Fairhaven Principal Sandra Kernen have worked together on a series of projects over the years, from paintings hung throughout the building in the memory of former students to creating a sensory walkway in the new playground.

“What matters the most about these trips are the kids, both from Fairhaven and Hubbard, and the memories they will carry with them once the Hubbard students get on the bus and head back to school,” MacMillan said.

The students who make the trip understand the impact they have on as well and take special memories with them.

“My fondest memories of my time at Hubbard High School have been the trips to Fairhaven,” Hubbard senior Evan Flynn said. “They are so special to me because it gives me an opportunity that I would otherwise not be given. Connecting with the kids that range from preschoolers to my age fills me with an overwhelming sense of genuine joy and fulfillment.”

Have an interesting story? Contact the newsroom by email at news@vindy.com Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, @TribToday.