GRANDE PRAIRIE PUBLIC SCHOOL DIVISION
Just in time for Christmas: STEM students making change for kids with disabilities

Students at Crystal Park School took on the challenge of giving back while putting their STEM skills to the test! On December 8, they participated in Neil Squire Society's campaign called Makers Making Change Hacking for the Holidays.

"Our STEM students built over 50 battery interrupters, 15 whale bubble blower toys, and 15 unicorn toys. For many students, it was their first time using wire strippers and learning to solder," explains Gitte Rushton, STEM Coordinator, and teacher, Crystal Park School.

The campaign involves STEM (Science. Technology. Engineering. Mathematics.), building challenges where students adapt toys for kids with disabilities. Students incorporated "switch jacks" into the toys, allowing them to connect to assistive switches to be activated.

According to the Neil Squire Society, commercial switches and switch-accessible toys are expensive and easily exceed $100 each. The high cost leaves many families and therapists without interactive, engaging toys crucial to childhood development.

"Through our building challenges, students learn about the benefits of assistive technology devices, and how open source and materials printed on a 3D printer can bring down the cost of assistive devices. The devices built by students at Crystal Park will be delivered to families across Alberta," explains Shanelle Waiting, Western Regional Coordinator, Neil Squire Society.

"I honestly was a bit afraid of it (soldering), but it wasn't as hard as I thought, and it was pretty fun," said Noah who's in the STEM Grade 6 program.

Natalya is in the Grade 8 STEM program, and said "I really liked that we are doing something good for the community. Hopefully, others can see and become part of the change to help others."

"Neil Squire's commitment to social inclusion and fostering equal opportunity for persons with disabilities align closely with the values at our school. It was great to see the enthusiasm of our Grade 6-8 STEM students as they successfully took on the challenge to help the greater community. The bonus was that they grew their skills and knowledge at the same time," said Cindy Clarkson, Principal, Crystal Park School

Related Information

Hacking for the Holidays STEM challenge

• Each year, the Society meets with therapists and families across Canada that need toys accessible to kids with disabilities. They find out their needs and set up the challenges for students to be a part of. "It is all about using technology, knowledge, and passion for empowering Canadians with disabilities," says Waiting.
• The non-profit organization visits schools throughout Alberta, hosting hands-on STEM challenges where students adapt toys for kids with disabilities

About the Neil Squire Society

• Neil Squire Society
• Help the Society continue to make a positive impact  Donate Now - Neil Squire Society (canadahelps.org)

STEM Education in GPPSD

• STEM Learning in GPPSD allows students to develop a passion in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This Program of Choice is available for Kindergarten to Grade 8 students and is currently at Crystal Park School, Derek Taylor Public School, and Hillside Community School. Students across Grande Prairie are eligible to be enrolled in the 2023/24 program, regardless of location. Students will attend the school closest to their homes.
• Registration for STEM Learning within GPPSD for the 2023/24 School Year will begin March 2, 2023.