I am currently teaching Biology at a charter high school. At our school we reach to the students' hearts, then their brains. We try to help them find their passions and help them to find a path inspires them to succeed.
Our students are students who have had trouble thriving in the traditional public school system for various reasons, including medical, motivation, special needs, and more.
Our school does many different things to help these students become successful. Each student has an adviser that they meet with at least once a week. Each class has a maximum of 15 students. As well, students are given the opportunity to go to the local community college that our school is located on.
Last year we were given a 3D printer. This printer was used in our Paleontology class. Students were able to use 3D virtual modeling programs and print their creations. As well, students used life size printed models of ancestor shark teeth and great white teeth and used formulas and measurements of the teeth to determine their size. Many of the students became inspired and expressed interest in 3D printing and Paleontology as a profession. This made me think: What if my students' started a 3D printing lab?
My Project
Students in my class will be using the 3D printers to print up replicas of bones, specimens, and other related objects that can enhance their learning.
As well, the students who are running the printing business will be learning how to use the technology, how to run a small business, and what running a business entails like stocking, customer service, bills, etc. The customers of this business will be mainly other teachers who want to use these materials in their class (which is useful in all content areas.) As well, students will be using our service for school projects. Our service will be also available to the community, but marketing will be education based.
Currently in our community we do not have a 3D printing lab that is open to the entire community.
A student run 3D printing business has the opportunity to inspire our school's students who are and aren't involved, teachers, administrators, and more. This project can also end up inspiring other local education institutes and other members of the community who may find ways to use this service. As well, the proceeds from this project will be used to run the business and student scholarships.
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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 Ms. Sahlstrom and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.