This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
Focusing Student Creativity is our tagline and we use this to assist teens in figuring out what their personal learning pathway might be. We offer multiple options in media, design, and art that apply creativity to real-world, career-based opportunities.
Students are in our academy for a total of 4 years.
We also work closely with 3rd graders and middle schools to help build the career pathway and tap into student creativity at an early age. Our kids are excited to be in the classroom and use digital tools to mentor others, work as professionals, and prepare for college and careers. They are always willing to take on new challenges to grow and develop as individuals and artists.
My Project
One of the areas my students "focus their creativity" is through 3d animation and game design. Many consider this as a college and career option and work independently, in addition to in-class, to learn about it. As a design team this year, they began creating a 3D game with a complete model of our school to 'hunt' zombies in. Ideally, I would like for them to be able to print their 3D character designs and hand paint them as a means of working beyond the screen.
In addition to students already working in a 3d environment, I would like for all of my students to have access to 3d printing to see their ideas come to life. I want them to be able to see the possibilities and develop new solutions to design problems that they may not yet be aware of.
Most students now are bombarded by digital culture.
Having access to this in the classroom certainly allows for exciting approaches to learning. Whenever possible I want to give students the option of working with their hands and thinking about how their digital work can transfer to the real, physical world. My hope is that 3d printing can be one solution for this. It will make a difference because we can pull off student designs, providing a learning experience that puts 3d into their hands.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Cauthron and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
