Innovative prosthetics project holds special meaning for one STEM teacher

Stephanie Kirchens has always been inspired by her late father.

At the age of 16, he lost his leg in a motorcycle accident and wore a prosthetic leg for much of his life.

As a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher at the STEM Academy @ LEE, Kirchens has the unique opportunity to introduce innovative projects to her biomedical students.

“I’ve always been intrigued with [my dad’s] prosthetics. So, what a better way to integrate biotechnology than to start looking at prosthetics and biomedical innovations,” Kirchens explained.

Every year, she gives an in-depth and project-based lesson on prosthesis.

“It was a month-long project. They have to do some engineering research, research the cost of it if they were to make the real thing, the size and dimensions, study topographic maps, and write an essay about the benefits and limitations of their model,” Kirchens said.

The students brainstorm how to help solve problems for people and animals without limbs. 

14-year-old Avery Knudsen created a prosthetic device for hamsters.

“They tend to lose their foot to Bumblefoot or any other diseases.  They typically get very unhealthy and tend to die very fast. So, I decided to make a hamster foot that allowed them to still be active, to defend themselves and still have a healthy life,” the STEM Academy freshman explained.

Fellow student Davian Rios spent hours thinking of ways to help birds with broken wings.

“Once they break their bones, it’s nearly impossible to replace because of the way the structure is. The closest thing right now in real life is just replacing a few feathers for them to fly. My design was actually restructuring the bones and the feathers,” the 14-year-old said.

Both students plan to enter the medical field and said they have developed beneficial skills in Kirchens’ class. 

Other students used 3D printers, Tinkercad technology or modeling clay to create cochlear implants, an artificial heart, a complete turtle shell and even a wheelchair for dogs. 

“They’re not only making something just for a grade, they’re actually looking at how this is going to impact the animal or the person that’s using it. They look at the benefits and the limitations. I’ve had some kids with some really creative ones,” Kirchens said.

One of her former students also earned an internship at The Hanger Clinic, a local care provider that helps people with limb loss or limb difference.

“It’s here in San Antonio. They make prosthetics for our veterans. So, he was able to get in and get an internship and work alongside people that make prosthetics,” Kirchens explained.

Through unique experiences in Kirchen’s classroom, STEM Academy students gain valuable skills they can use in the workforce to make a difference.

“Engineering can be fun and helpful. It’s helping the community!”

You can learn more about North East ISD’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Academy @ LEE High School here https://www.neisd.net/Page/21704

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