Submitted Photo SRT and Westhope Public School representatives hold students’ 3D projects. SRT presented checks to the school for the 3D technology. From left are Cassidy Hjelmstad, SRT CEO and general manager; Casey Mills, Westhope teacher; Tom Jespersen, SRT director for District 2; and Kristi Miller, SRT Board president.

WESTHOPE – Westhope Public School fifth graders are learning about technology, design and marketing through a classroom enterprise that began when a teacher introduced them to 3D printing.

The students recently obtained new technology and new STEAM learning opportunities, funded in part by a Rural Development Finance Corp. (RDFC) grant, matched by SRT Communications.

RDFC awarded a $750 grant to Westhope School, which SRT matched with an additional $750, to use toward new printers, filament and related supplies to grow and sustain the school’s 3D printing program, according to a news release from SRT.

The program began when teacher Casey Mills and his fifth grade class started putting an available 3D printer to use, the release stated. The fifth graders set up their own 3D print shop to sell their items, researching sustainable pricing and the most effective packaging. All proceeds go back into purchasing supplies so they can keep printing in the classroom.

The students’ creations grew so popular that the program needed to add printers with newer

technology. Mills also wanted to introduce 3D CAD software, so the students could progress from using downloadable templates to designing their own products. Soon they were creating original items, such as headphone holders and a clock with a battery.

Branching out from the classroom setting, students visited local businesses to ask what challenges or needs they have. Then they headed back to class to create solutions, which included a napkin-and-condiment holder, a magnetic paperclip holder, custom-sized shelves, and signs displaying store hours.

Through this school-based enterprise, the students practice technology, creative design, small business operations, marketing and advertising.

“It’s been an amazing experience seeing how excited kids are about these skills,” Mills said in the release. “We appreciate this opportunity and SRT’s support of our vision. These students will be able to take the problem-solving, innovation and business acumen they develop today

into their future careers.”

Mills also credits the application of 3D printing to deepening interest and enjoyment in other

coursework. For example, students learn about the Renaissance and Shakespeare by creating 3D prints of Michelangelo’s Pieta sculpture and a Globe Theatre replica.

“We are so impressed with the variety and ingenuity of the work these students are creating. As a technology company, SRT is proud to support STEAM in our local schools. It’s inspiring to see the entrepreneurial spirit of Casey’s class and how technology is sparking their creativity and opportunities for the future,” said Kristi Miller, SRT Board president, in the release.

Mills was named the 2024 Bottineau County Teacher of the Year, and one of his 3D printing students has been recognized as a STEM All-Star Student. Since achieving his goal of sustainability, Mills is looking at drone technology for the next evolution of his program.