Scott Johnson, a STEA(rt)M-focused teacher at Red Cross Elementary School in Kentucky, has turned a simple classroom project into a life-changing endeavor. Noticing that one of his kindergarten students, Jackson Farmer, was born without a right hand and had been wearing a purely aesthetic rubber hand to school, Johnson wanted to help.
With a background in 3D printing, Johnson accessed his school’s lab filled with 3D printers. Four years ago, he began working on a functional prosthetic hand for Jackson. Guided by the community support from a group called E-Nable, which focuses on creating low-cost prosthetics using 3D printing, he developed a lightweight design using corn-based bioplastic, screws, fishing line, and small rubber bands.
Throughout the year, Johnson crafted a prototype but kept the project a secret from Jackson and his family, fearing he might not complete it. Once he perfected the design, he revealed it to the Farmers, who supported his efforts. After 25 hours of printing and 4 hours of assembly, the final prosthetic hand featured a simple mechanism: when Jackson flexes his wrist down, the fingers close; when he relaxes, they open.
The total cost of materials for the hand was between $20 and $30, and any future necessary replacements can easily be printed. As a fourth grader, Jackson was finally able to wear his new hand and expressed joy in trying to write with it, saying, “It felt great. It felt like it was just right.”
This remarkable project not only provides hope and functionality for Jackson but also equips him with the knowledge and resources to create replacements as needed. Johnson’s dedication exemplifies how compassion and innovation can significantly impact a child’s life.