Expanding Hands-On Plastics Education in Akron Public Schools

 Akron Public Schools has been awarded eight new 3D printers through the SPE Foundation, expanding hands‑on STEM learning for middle and high school students across the district. Eight APS middle schools each received a new printer to replace discontinued, outdated equipment, ensuring students have access to reliable, industry‑relevant technology. The printers will be used within engineering and design‑based instruction centered on CAD modeling, 3D printing, prototyping, testing, and plastics manufacturing, helping students connect classroom learning to real‑world applications of polymers and advanced manufacturing skills.

The investment strengthens APS’s nationally recognized Zipping to STEM program in partnership with the University of Akron, which has already reached more than 12,000 students district‑wide. Embedded in the eighth‑grade curriculum and aligned with future secondary pathways, the program immerses students in engineering design and manufacturing concepts through iterative, project‑based learning. By expanding access to industry‑relevant tools and experiences, this investment supports early career awareness, skill development, and a stronger pipeline of future talent for Akron’s polymer and advanced manufacturing ecosystem. 

The SPE Foundation supports the development of plastics professionals by funding high‑quality educational programs, grants, and scholarships that emphasize science, engineering, sustainability, and manufacturing, while creating STEM opportunities for students worldwide. In 2025, the foundation awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships; expanded its national polymer science, plastics, and sustainability patch programs with Girl Scout Councils; and delivered PlastiVan® and 3D Printer Grants to thousands of students across North America, including a 3D printer awarded to PIC Polymer Palooza partner Akron Children’s Museum.

“In science education, we want students to move beyond memorization and into a ‘maker’ mindset. These new 3D printers from the SPE Foundation allow our middle school students to engage in the full engineering design cycle—from CAD modeling to prototyping and testing—while learning that failure is a valuable part of innovation. Replacing outdated equipment with these new 3D printers ensures that our students are working with relevant, high-quality technology—closing the gap between classroom learning and the advanced manufacturing skills required in today’s workforce." - Dr. Katrina Halasa, Science and Health Supervisor, Akron Public Schools

 "Akron is a global hub for polymer science, and it is vital that our graduates are prepared to thrive in that ecosystem. This investment from the SPE Foundation strengthens our talent pipeline by introducing students to advanced manufacturing and CAD modeling early in their academic careers. We are proud to offer our students the high-tech, project-based learning experiences that turn today's curiosity into tomorrow's career. This amazing partnership with the SPE Foundation allows us to keep our classrooms as dynamic as the industries our students will one day lead. " - Dr. Stacey Hodoh, Director of Strategic Communications, Akron Public Schools

"The SPE Foundation has a long history of supporting positive plastics education in Ohio, and through this grant, we hope to inspire tomorrow’s polymer workforce. By empowering students to become the designers and engineers of the future, we are preparing them to meet the critical challenges of modern manufacturing and sustainability. Together, we are building a foundation for innovation that benefits both our local economy and the global environment." -Eve Vitale, Executive Director, SPE Foundation