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Dear VAA Families,
I’m so excited to share something that has truly inspired me this summer!
I had the amazing opportunity to attend the EXSEED Conference at Loma Linda University in California, and let me tell you—it lit a fire in me! I learned how to use a 3D printer, apply design thinking, and even programmed and made a prototype for a robot that says “You go girl, you got this!” See them below in photos.
This little robot was designed as a motivational tool for a child who didn’t enjoy reading. The idea? If the child was told to read for 15 minutes, they could place the robot on their desk. Every five minutes, the robot would cheer them on. By the third encouragement, they’d know they made it to the finish line. What a powerful way to support learning through innovation!
Throughout the conference, I saw students tackling real-world global challenges—from autism and cerebral palsy to stroke recovery and more—by creating thoughtful, hands-on prototypes that solve meaningful problems. I was so moved and deeply inspired to bring this same mindset and creativity back to Vienna Adventist Academy.
So… I came back and found a space in our school to create an Innovation Lab—a place where students will:
- Learn design thinking
- Explore 3D printing
- Build, create, and prototype
- Use their God-given gifts to solve real problems
- Shine Bright: Illuminate with Innovation This is our theme for the 2025-2026.
I will be teaching this class myself—helping students tap into their creativity, think critically, and learn that it’s not just about grades—it’s about using knowledge to make the world better.
But I need your help! We are furnishing our Innovation Lab and we’ve created an Amazon Wish List filled with the tools and resources our students will need.
Would you consider helping us build something special for our students? Whether it's purchasing a supply item, sharing this newsletter, or simply cheering us on, it all makes a difference.
Let's put Vienna Adventist Academy on the map as a small school doing BIG things. I am grateful to Robert Henley for inviting me and our math teacher, Mrs. Makau, to this conference. This is just the beginning, and I truly believe that our students will change the world.
Click the links below to Sponsor a Tool for our Innovation Lab or feel free to make a direct donation to the school. ALL donations are tax-deductible! Please be sure to write Donation for Innovation Lab in the comments section. Thank you for helping us inspire the next generation of innovators!
Please take a moment to review the important dates and flyers below! 📅 We can’t wait to kick off an amazing new school year with you! 🎉
With a thankful heart,
E Holland
Go Cougars! 🐾 💙💛
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