School board views 3D printer and output / By Martha Knight

School directors Monday night saw examples of the output of the Port Allegany Junior-Senior High School’s latest addition to its technology lab, as technology instructor Doug Dickerson demonstrated the 3D printer acquired through a STEM (Science-Engineering-Technology-Mathematics) grant.

Clearly enthusiastic about the device and its value in his and other science courses, Dickerson showed slides describing the printer’s abilities, and let board members view the printer itself, and objects students have produced.

From idea to drawing using a special illustration program, to inputting the drawing file to the printer and using the printer’s interface to control the actual printing, students have been able to make numerous 3D items. Dickerson handed around a gator statuette, a large nut and a small nut and bolt, a chain with several links, a gear assembly and other items.

As 3D printing is utilized in more industries, students who have gained familiarity with the technology will have a leg up in further studies and employment opportunities, Dickerson predicted.

According to the teacher and to high school principal Marc Budd, a number of classes and courses utilize the new printer. Dickerson said 3D printing experience in the technology lab is made available to as many students as possible.

Board president and former science teacher Dave Mensch remarked that the printer and associated programs are good examples of hands-on learning, something he long has advocated.

The printer cost about $17,000, down from a recent price of $22,000. It uses a plastic material derived from corn, which can be reused a number of times and comes in reels. The lab has four colors that can be combined in projects.

Superintendent Buchsen updated the board on the Guaranteed Energy Solutions project. Some prospective service providers will walk through the buildings with maintenance staff and him Tuesday, he said.

The board approved the resignation of Lisa Schwenk as a cafeteria server/attendant. Also approved were volunteer basketball coaches Nathan Zitnik, Justin Bienkowski, Matthew Bodamer and Ricky Bova.

The board agreed with a recommendation by Buchsen that the district no longer retain Lucy Curley and Company for grantsman services at $1,000 a month, as has been done for several years. Instead, services will be ordered on a per-grant basis, as needed.

After the public meeting the board held an executive session, to continue its efforts to work out a contract with its Act 93 employees (supervisory and administrative staff).