Precision Design & Manufacturing with CNC Fabrication

Moderation state
funded
Grant Applicant
Jonathon Levin
School Site
Alder Creek Middle School
Grant Category
Career Technical Education (CTE)
Technology
Grant Date
2026-06-09T12:00:00
Description

The introduction of the Creality Falcon laser engraving and CNC platform offers a transformative opportunity for ACMS students to move from digital design to physical production. While our current programs focus on  3D modeling and robotics, the Creality Falcon provides a "design-to-build" workflow that mirrors modern industrial manufacturing.

Unlike 3D printing, which is additive, this system teaches subtractive manufacturing and precision optics. Students will use a web-based design canvas to understand power, speed, and material density, safely exploring how laser technology and computer numerical control (CNC) define modern engineering and custom fabrication.

Benefits of Program

Students will work individually and collaboratively to draft and refine their designs, fostering communication and resilience. They will learn the iterative process of prototyping—testing designs on cardboard before moving to sustainable woods or acrylics.

The Creality Falcon system includes a fully enclosed protective cover and external ventilation, ensuring a safe classroom environment. The software is compatible with student Chromebooks and requires no invasive data collection.

Success of Program

Success of the program is defined when more students see themselves as makers. Students get very excited about physical design such as 3D printing or using the CriCut machine. This is an additional tool that will engage them with CAD software and give them additional outlets for creativity and engineering. It will also give them exposure that prepares them for more advanced CNC work available at the high school and local makerspace.

Implementation

This tool would be available to students to use during their ACES rotation as the Tech Lab incorporates more opportunities for students to engage in "Makerspace" style activities. This would complement existing curriculum in robotics, engineering, 3D printing and construction.

Through coordination with the IT team, a dedicated computer station would be set up for students to use in programming their designs for laser cutting.

Can you share this grant with your grade level or subject team?

This can support other projects in school by having students design products that could be used on campus such as signs that can be posted around school.

Sustainability
Long-Term Investment: The Creality Falcon is built for durability with a modular laser head that can be easily replaced or upgraded, ensuring a 5–7 year lifespan.

Low Recurring Costs: The primary recurring costs are raw materials (plywood, acrylic), which can be sustained through existing department budgets or Measure AA Technology funds or can be upcycled using scraps and cardboard leftover from other projects on campus.
Amount Funded
$5013.00
Individual Budget Items(s)
$300 - Lightburn Software
$3113 - Falcon2 Pro 60W+1.6W All in One Kit (At time of grant writing was on sale for 2100)
$650 - Creality Falcon Air Purifier
$100 - 5x Intelligent Recognition Materials Package
$250 - Allocation for Fire Extinguisher, Goggles and other safety supplys
Shipping
$0.00
Taxes
$600.00
Other funding sources

AA funding could be used to supplement the project with consumables and replacement parts.

Supporting Links
Creality Falcon Website
LightBurn Education Software