Jefferson Elementary School

WARSAW, IN - Students in Miss Miller’s first-grade classroom and Mrs. Vosler’s Life Skills classroom at Jefferson Elementary School worked together on a hands-on assistive technology project that blends empathy, innovation and real-world problem solving.

What began as first graders designing simple 3D-printed assistive devices (such as custom UNO card holders and classroom tools) quickly grew into something even bigger. As 6th grade STEM ambassadors learned more about the specific needs of their peers, the project naturally expanded beyond small supports to a larger mobility solution.

“This project is about so much more than 3D printing,” the Jefferson teachers shared. “It’s about students learning to see the world through someone else’s eyes, recognizing challenges and working together to design solutions that truly matter.”

The project reached an exciting milestone last week as Jefferson students successfully designed and produced a fully 3D-printed mobility chair. Following multiple strength and safety trials to ensure the chair could support weight and safely hold a student, a test fitting was completed in the Life Skills classroom.

The custom mobility chair will allow the student to more fully participate in circle time and morning activities alongside peers, increasing both access and inclusion within the classroom environment.

The next phase of the project will continue to focus on designing and creating assistive technology tools using the school’s 3D printers. Students will work collaboratively to identify needs and develop practical 3D-printed objects that support daily tasks, empowering Life Skills students while reinforcing design thinking, creativity and teamwork.

This innovative project is made possible through classroom collaboration and strong community partnerships. Funding support was provided through a KEYS Grant, along with generous donations of 3D printers and filament from Atomic Filament and Legrand.

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Pictured left to right: Aubrianna Gernert, Madilyn Moore, Mrs. Vosler, Clayton Lyons and Ryder Isabel complete a fitting for kindergartener Laityn Blank’s custom mobility chair.