PrintLab Pioneer Westwood Elementary Wins EAST’s Founder’s Award
At Westwood Elementary in Springdale, Arkansas, students aren’t just learning about technology - they’re using it to solve real-world problems. Through an initiative called EAST, they lead projects that make a difference in their communities, from designing adaptive tools to mapping local landmarks. And this year, their efforts earned them the highest honor amongst hundreds of other programs in the EAST network.
14th July 2025 • News
EAST (Education Accelerated by Service and Technology) is a student-led program used in over 250 schools across three states. Students work with tools like 3D design software, video editing, GIS mapping, and more – building skills and solving real challenges along the way. As part of their program, Westwood Elementary and Springdale Public Schools integrate PrintLab’s 3D printing curriculum, helping students develop the skills to design original, meaningful products.
This year, Westwood Elementary earned the Founder’s Award – the top recognition in the EAST network. Here’s how Lynette Curzon, EAST teacher at Westwood, described the achievement:
“The Founder’s Award is the highest honor given by the EAST Initiative, and it doesn’t consider grade level. That means my 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders were competing against students up through 12th grade across the entire network. In the history of EAST, only one other elementary program has ever received this award, making this an extraordinary accomplishment.
I believe what truly sets our program apart is our continued focus on adaptive technology solutions. But winning this award also requires going above and beyond in several areas, many of which aren’t listed in the official criteria.”
Some of the standout contributions from Westwood students included:
- Leading 3D printer operator training sessions for other schools.
- Using PrintLab’s 3D printing curriculum to demonstrate how the platform can help other EAST programs build 3D design skills that support original adaptive designs and other solution-driven projects.
- Organising and hosting an adaptive technology event for local senior citizens, inviting other EAST programs to collaborate.
- Creating a custom needs assessment survey for seniors to identify everyday challenges that could be solved with 3D-printed tools.
“This award recognizes more than just technical skill – it celebrates leadership, innovation, and service. And that’s exactly what our students delivered all year long”.
To apply for the award, students produced a 10-minute video that captures the culture and impact of their EAST program. Watch Westwood’s award-winning video below. It’s fun, full of personality, and shows what’s possible when students are trusted to lead with creativity and purpose.
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