Teacher: Samantha Wisener
School: Ortega Middle School
District: Alamosa School District
District Website: https://oms.alamosaschools.org/
School Address: 401 Victoria Ave, Alamosa, CO 81101
Grade Level: 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade; Art
Region: San Luis Valley
Project Title: 3D Tech plus Sculpture
Category: Music, Journalism and the Arts
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
I teach at Ortega Middle School (OMS), which serves a highly diverse student population. My goal is to introduce my students to the integration of art, technology, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills through the use of 3D printers. By teaching students to create and print sculptures, I aim to empower them to see the vast potential in themselves, in art, and in the technology industry. In our small, underserved community of Alamosa, access to such resources is often limited, but by providing 3D printers, we can offer students a hands-on experience that many wealthier schools enjoy.

Proposal:
The project will provide three 3D printers and filament for my art students. I plan to use these printers to teach them how to create, design, and print sculptures using modern technology. Additionally, we would design a collaborative project, such as a large-scale dragon sculpture to hang in the art room. This experience will introduce students to technological creativity and innovation, integrating STEM concepts into the art curriculum. Given the cultural diversity of our students-from Hispanic, Guatemalan, and Native American backgrounds to ranchers and farmers-this project will expose them to new forms of artistic expression while developing valuable STEM skills.

Budget Breakdown:

• Three FLASHFORGE Adventurer 5M 3D Printers - $300 each (Total: $900)
• Filament for student projects - $1,100

Total Request: $2,000

Photos:

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