Photo: Mr. Grady, Parker Staton, and Cole Hamilton.
VALDOSTA – St. John Catholic School is empowering the community through a successful STEM program for students.
Release:
In the heart of Valdosta, St. John Catholic School has been a beacon of innovation and kindness through its thriving STEM program, facilitated by Mrs. Arlene Manning. This initiative is not only aimed at equipping students with crucial skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; it also encourages them to participate in meaningful community service. Recently, a remarkable project exemplified this dual commitment, showcasing how young minds can make a difference in people’s lives.
A member of our community reached out to St. John School with a heartfelt request. A wonderful gentleman named Grady required a specialized component to house his stylus and connect his communication device to his wheelchair, a necessity that could significantly enhance his ability to communicate. St. John School quickly understood the importance of this project and identified two enthusiastic students, Cole Hamilton and Parker Staton, who were eager to take on this challenge.
Upon meeting with Grady, the community member in need, students took the time to assess his requirements carefully. They listened intently as he detailed his needs, noting everything from the dimensions of the space available on his wheelchair to the specific functionalities that the component would need to support. This initial meeting was not just a formality; it was a vital step in ensuring that the students understood the real-world implications of their project.
With their newfound knowledge in hand, students brainstormed and drafted design concepts that would meet Grady’s needs. Leveraging the new technology they learned about in their STEM classes, they turned to TinkerCad, a user-friendly 3D design software. With a vision in mind, the duo crafted their prototype, aligning their creativity with technical skills acquired through their studies.
The real magic happened when they brought their design to life using the school’s 3D printer. The first prototype was an exciting milestone in their project, but the students soon realized that further modifications were necessary to better serve Grady’s needs. This iterative design process was an invaluable learning experience, teaching them the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement in engineering.
After several rounds of testing, adjustments, and refinements, the students were thrilled to present the final component to Grady. It was a moment filled with pride and accomplishment, not just for the students but for the entire St. John School community. The prototype successfully met the requirements set forth, marking a new chapter in Grady’s ability to communicate more effectively.
The project exemplifies the core values of St. John School’s STEM program: innovation, collaboration, and community service. By merging education with real-life application, students not only gained hands-on experience but also learned the profound impact their skills can have on someone’s life.
As the Valdosta community continues to support and engage with St. John School, we can look forward to more inspiring collaborations that empower our students to make lasting changes in the world around them. This project is just one example of how education can blend seamlessly with compassion, demonstrating that together, we can foster a brighter future for everyone.
For more information about the event please visit SJCSValdosta.org or contact 229-244-2556.
About St. John the Evangelist Catholic School:
St. John the Evangelist Catholic School has been a pillar of education in Valdosta, GA, dedicated to fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth in a nurturing environment. Through dedicated faculty and active community involvement, SJCS prepares students for a bright future rooted in faith and integrity.
