The West Clermont STEM Center held its 3D Grand Prix on Wednesday, May 9th at West Clermont High School.
Approximately 250 “fans” came to support the 80 fourth grade gifted students from Amelia, Brantner, Clough, Holly Hill, Merwin, Summerside, Willowville, and Withamsville-Tobasco elementary schools who had submitted projects for this event. Friends and family members had the opportunity to view trifolds and hero cards as well as students’ 3D printed cars prior to the races that were held that evening.
Overall racing champions were Katie Ammerman and Nathan Harris.
Students spent the past five months using the engineering and design process and learning about the effects that 3D printing is having on the world around them.
They were challenged with the task of designing vehicles on a CAD (computer-assisted design) program that would run on a pinewood derby-like track.
“I learned the value of hard work. I also learned how to build cars, “said Josh Day when asked what impact the 3D Grand Prix had on him. Lillian Starline stated, “I learned that it is challenging but it gets easier. I also learned that failure isn’t failure until you never try again.”
West Clermont STEM teacher Heather Frost-Hauck was thrilled with the turnout at the Grand Prix. “This event marks the culmination of months and months of hard work. It is wonderful to have the students’ effort recognized. This is a celebration of learning and a testimony that perseverance and growth mindset pay off.”
In addition to the student exhibits and races that took place, visitors also had the opportunity to see a 1961 Chenowth Chevy Indy Roadster owned by Dave and Arlene Schelppi of Batavia, Ohio. “We believe in linking real-world opportunities to the learning that is taking place in our classroom, ” stated Frost-Hauck.
She continued, saying, “In this way, students see the reason for learning and the implications it can have on life outside of our walls.”