Hands-on learning at Thousand Islands Secondary School turns into real-world business

A hands-on initiative at Brockville’s Thousand Islands Secondary School (TISS) is helping students build technical skills while giving back to the community.

Grade 12 student Caretta Harder is leading a student-run 3D printing project through the school’s Recognition of Experiential Learning for Credit (RELC) program. With support from staff and classmates, the initiative has grown into a small business producing custom-printed items for local organizations.

“I saw how much these printers could do—not just for us, but for the community,” said Harder. “There’s so much potential to create and help others at the same time.”

Supported by teacher Robin Doncaster, students learned design and business skills while forming teams to manage marketing, outreach, and production. Funding from the Real-World Learning Department helped the group purchase Bambu 3D printers, allowing them to take on larger and more detailed projects.

The team’s first orders included branded shoe charms for the Brockville Figure Skating Club and interactive nature discs for Naismith Memorial Public School. Proceeds from sales are reinvested into the program to cover material and equipment costs.

“She’s built something lasting,” said teacher Antje Earl. “Caretta’s enthusiasm, creativity, and leadership have made this more than just a school project—it’s a model for what real-world learning can be.”

Harder is now developing a guide to help future students continue the project. The initiative has gained attention across the Upper Canada District School Board as a strong example of student-led innovation.

Taken from a press release submitted by the Upper Canada District School Board