Geometry Students Build Insulated Cat Shelters for Local Humane Society

Students in a geometry course at Independence High School in Blackfoot, Idaho, applied mathematical principles to a community service project by designing and constructing insulated, weather-proof cat shelters for the Bingham County Humane Society. Instructor Shelley Nash utilized the assignment to demonstrate complex mathematical concepts, specifically focusing on the use of scale factors in developing detailed blueprints for the structures. This hands-on exercise provided students with a functional understanding of how abstract measurements and proportions translate into practical engineering solutions addressing local non-profit requirements.

The project extended beyond technical design, offering students insight into the operational needs of the recipient organization. The Bingham County Humane Society, which operates entirely on volunteer support and donations, relies on cats for natural rodent control within its facilities and for adopters. The students developed two distinct models of durable, weather-resistant enclosures, confronting genuine construction challenges related to structural integrity and material procurement. A significant economic lesson emerged as the class navigated the high costs associated with purchasing small quantities of materials, which necessitated financial assistance from community partners to ensure project completion.

To finalize the designs, the class adopted an unconventional construction methodology, building the shelters from the interior outward under the guidance of mentors. Upon completion, the cat homes were sold to the public, generating $550 in revenue designated to support homeless cats under the shelter's care. This successful integration of academic rigor and civic engagement brought recognition to the educator, as Shelley Nash was named Idaho's finalist for the Presidential Award of Excellence in Math & Science Teaching.

The funds raised will support the shelter's efforts, including Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programs, which aim to mitigate ongoing challenges in animal welfare. The Bingham County Humane Society, serving the community since 1991, previously faced critical situations, such as having to euthanize a high percentage of incoming cats due to disease. The students' work provided both physical shelter and financial resources for an organization dedicated to preventing high rates of kitten mortality, which is estimated to affect 75% of kittens surviving outdoors in their first year.