At Five Oaks Middle School,  our students are bursting with ideas—from imagining tools that could one day clean polluted waterways, to engineering earthquake-resistant structures, and modeling chemical reactions to better understand the world around them. These are just some of the classroom projects I help support. They’re not just assignments—they’re bold, imaginative efforts to solve real problems. With access to rapid-prototyping 3D printers, students can turn ideas into tangible, testable models—moving from concept to creation and engaging in hands-on, meaningful learning.

We’re requesting $1500 to purchase two Bambu Labs 3D printers and a supply of filament. These high-speed, multi-color printers help multiple classrooms to rapidly prototype more complex designs—bringing ideas to life and transforming academic learning into hands-on innovation.

3D printing empowers our students to:

• Engage in the engineering design cycle—from brainstorming to testing and refining.
• Apply design thinking to solve authentic challenges.
• Visualize complex concepts in science and math.
• Collaborate in teams, building communication and problem-solving skills.
• Connect learning to NGSS standards and future STEM careers.

As the Library Instructional Technology Teacher (LITT), I collaborate with teachers across content areas to design engaging, technology-rich lessons that prepare students for the future. Funding this project will allow me to support teachers embed 3D design and AI-assisted tools into science, engineering, and core classes—ensuring every student benefits from these innovative resources.

Your support will help us unlock the potential of every student—turning curiosity into creation and learning into lasting impact.