Students Make Use of SFUSD’s 3D Printers to Create Personal Protective Equipment

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Students Make Use of SFUSD’s 3D Printers to Create Personal Protective Equipment

Press Release

San Francisco (June 17, 2020) - San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) middle and high school students are using 3D printing technology from home to create personal protective equipment (PPE) and other devices to protect against the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Two students at Galileo Academy of Science and Technology, their teacher, and a teacher at Aptos Middle School have teamed up to create face shields with 3D printers for healthcare workers and potentially teachers once in-person teaching resumes. Students at Aptos Middle School have been creating ear-savers and “clean keys,” a 3D-printed multi-tool that can function as a stylus, bag hook, and door-opener in order to keep hands clean.

In mid-May, staff from SFUSD’s Career Pathway programs began reaching out to teachers at schools with 3D printing technology to coordinate distributing 3D printers for students to use over the summer. There are approximately 22 3D printers throughout SFUSD high, middle and elementary schools that are used for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) classes and robotics programs, and so far 10 have been distributed to students’ homes.

“I am so proud of our students, teachers and staff who are applying the skills and values of an SFUSD STEAM education,” said SFUSD Superintendent Dr. Vincent Matthews. “SFUSD’s Career Pathway programs give students the tools and resources they need to thrive in a rapidly-changing world, and it is inspiring to see our current students and teachers finding ways to help their community during a time of great need.”

Students have distributed over 150 face shields and 250 ear-savers to nursing homes and other neighborhood groups while also working with GetPPE.org, a clearinghouse that partners with institutions in need of PPE. Students and teachers aim to continue producing PPE throughout the summer, and are looking for ways to distribute materials to organizations in need.

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