Red Cross Elementary teacher builds 3D-printed hand for student, inspires confidence for the future

BARREN COUNTY, KY.- Jackson Farmer, a fourth grader at Red Cross Elementary, was born without his right hand, but thanks to his STEM teacher, he now has a 3D-printed prosthetic designed just for him.

Before receiving the new hand, Jackson used a non-functional version with limited use.

His teacher, Scott Johnson, spent over 30 hours creating the prosthetic, which cost only about $20 in materials.

Johnson said the goal is not only to meet immediate needs, but also to inspire long-term confidence and curiosity in students.

“For this age, what about in 2035? What about in 2045?” Johnson said. “If we can start inspiring that confidence and the spark to go find out and learn different things and try new things now, that’ll serve them well in the future.”

Jackson praised his teacher’s kindness, saying, “He saw me the first year that I came and he just decided to help me since last year.” Johnson emphasized that the resources and support are not limited to one student. He’s prepared to adapt and create prosthetics for any child in need across nearby counties.

“The biggest thing we do as educators is shape their lives, not only when they’re with us,” Johnson said. “Now that we have these files, we can adapt them for anyone and send it right to them.”

His work, students say, goes far beyond the classroom—meeting needs, building confidence, and opening doors to future possibilities.