West Monroe student’s 3D-printing project helps fourth grader gain independence
A high school cyber literacy class designed a custom cafeteria tray holder for a Ouachita Parish student who uses a wheelchair
WEST MONROE, La. (KNOE) - What began as “just another grade” for a West Monroe ninth grader turned into a project that made a real difference for a younger student in Ouachita Parish.
Asher White said his expectations changed quickly when his cyber literacy class learned their 3D-printing assignment would be created for a real person — fourth grader Reagan King.
“Oh by the way we are doing this for a person,” White recalled being told. “I’m like, ‘Oh, now it’s serious.’”
Reagan, described as bubbly and full of personality, needed help in the school cafeteria because she uses a wheelchair. White said the goal was to help her become more independent as she gets older.
“First with this project I wanted Reagan to be more independent in the cafeteria so she didn’t have to ask her peers or teacher to help her,” White said.
The class shifted from a standard assignment to a semester-long challenge, using 3D printing to create a cafeteria tray holder designed to fit Reagan’s wheelchair. White and classmates had to figure out measurements and refine the design so it could securely hold a tray.
“What is the actual distance from pole to pole to go on her wheelchair? How big does it have to be to hold the tray?” White said. “It had to become a lot more refined at that point.”
By the end of the semester, the students delivered a finished product — and a moment that left Reagan and her family emotional.
“To see her excitement, it’s hard to describe how exciting it was to be a part of that,” White said.
Reagan’s family praised the students’ work and the impact it could have on her day-to-day school life.
“It’s just so wonderful,” one family member said. “I feel like crying happy tears right now.”
Educators involved said the project is an example of how classrooms are changing — with students learning problem-solving while using technology to meet real needs.
“Show them that they are creative, that they are smart, they are able to solve the problems that are out there and that we can work together to make the world a better place,” an educator said.
The project earned White high marks — and an admirer in Reagan.
“An A plus…plus…plus…billion plus,” Reagan said. “I am just so happy right now.”
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