Saturday, November 8, 2025
Two teams from the John F. Kennedy High School science department have earned national recognition in the International Technology and Engineering Education Association’s REACH Challenge, a competition that tasks students with using STEM skills to improve the lives of individuals in their communities.
The Buddy Basket Team was named the Overall Winner of the challenge, while the Protractatray Team was selected as a finalist — a dual achievement that drew praise during the Sept. 3 school board meeting.
“This project is truly life changing, not only for the person receiving the adaptive technology, but for the students and their teachers as well,” said board trustee Janet Goller, who commended the students during the meeting.
Working in partnership with the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Kennedy students have developed user-centered designs that address real-world challenges. For the Buddy Basket Team, that meant collaborating with Axel, a 14-year-old living with ataxia, a neurological disorder that affects balance and coordination.
To help Axel safely carry items while walking, students engineered the “Buddy Basket” — a lightweight, collapsible chest-level carrier secured with backpack-style straps. The innovation gave him independence at school and allowed him to contribute at his family’s restaurant.
“Our students didn’t just design a product — they changed someone’s daily life,” said Barbi Frank, the team’s faculty advisor. “Seeing Axel confidently move through his day, both in school and at work, is the true reward.”
Meanwhile, the Protractatray Team worked with Teddy, a 4-year-old boy with muscular dystrophy whose activity chair trays lacked comfort and functionality. The students designed a custom tray system that attaches to his wheelchair, providing elbow support and stability while encouraging participation in both learning and play.
At his family’s request, a second tray was also made for use at home.
“This project challenged our students to look beyond the classroom and think critically about how design and engineering can serve real human needs,” Superintendent Michael Harrington said. “It was innovation with purpose.”
The district shared a YouTube video of the recognition, entitled “2024 REACH Challenge Winners” by ITEAA.
