Southern Christian Children’s Home reached out to Pottsville Junior High School EAST to see if we could help set up a fun interactive event with their students. Once our EAST students decided on a Mr. Potato Head pumpkin decorating contest, it was time to make a plan. Students had to learn how to use the 3D printer for the Mr. Potato Head parts.
To make the Mr. Potato head parts our students in EAST had to take a Fusion 360 training, to learn how to make and print these parts. These EAST students also had to learn how to use Cricut Design Space and TinkerCad to print other various parts. After many attempts they finally found the correct type and size of Mr. Potato head parts that they needed, so they made multiple of those.
Our East students visited Southern Christian Children’s Home in Morrilton and set up and facilitated the pumpkin decorating contest for their students. Awards were given to students with the cutest pumpkins as well as the spookiest pumpkins. These awards were made from the Glowforge. This was a great way for students in Pottsville and Morrilton to showcase their creativity on different levels, interact, make new friends, and have fun.
Not only did students enjoy using the parts that our EAST team designed and printed for the contest but they also enjoyed the popcorn and snack bar.
Teamwork and critical thinking were huge components of this project. This group of students have not only learned how to use multiple types of technology, but they have also learned how to work as a team and how to work with clients. Working with clientele outside the district is essential in growing and leading in the community. This day had a big impact on bringing two communities together and created a bond with PJHS EAST and the Southern Christian Children’s Home.