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Southgate board approves $19,999 waterjet cutter for district robotics program
Summary
The Southgate Community School District board approved purchasing a Wazer Pro waterjet cutter and supplies for the district robotics center, funded from bond proceeds, to expand hands-on fabrication capacity for multiple robotics teams.
The Southgate Community School District Board of Education approved a $19,999 purchase of a Wazer Pro desktop waterjet cutting machine and related supplies for the district robotics program.
Assistant Principal Mark Hansen, representing Southgate’s robotics teams, told the board the purchase includes a Wazer Pro desktop waterjet, two replacement cutting beds, replacement nozzle kits and 2,200 pounds of abrasive garnet. "With the growth of the robotics program in South Gate Community School District, we are seeking additional equipment to give our students the opportunity to compete effectively with top teams," Hansen said.
Hansen said the district currently has one CNC machine and a 3-D printer and that a single machine limits how many students can work simultaneously. He described the new unit as additional equipment rather than a replacement. "The CNC machine that they have is still works. This would be in addition to," Hansen said.
Board members asked about funding and alternative grants. Hansen said state funding for robotics is allocated by team and has declined on a per-team basis as the number of teams increased, and that the district plans to use bond funds to cover the purchase and related fit-out of the Garish Innovation Center where district teams are consolidated. "So this would come out of bond money," Hansen said.
A motion to approve the purchase was made by Dr. Pomponio and seconded by Miss Angel; the board voted in favor and the motion carried.
Board members also asked for follow-up information about equipment lifespan; Hansen agreed to provide that later by email so the board can plan for future replacements.
The purchase is intended to increase fabrication capacity at the Garish Innovation Center, which the district said houses elementary, middle and high school robotics teams.
