School board approves $20,147 zSpace VR purchase for middle-school career exploration

The Johnson County School Board on Tuesday approved a $20,147.12 purchase of a zSpace virtual-reality career-exploration system for the district’s middle school, funding the purchase through the district’s Innovative Schools Model (ISM) grant.

Mister Adams, introduced by the board as the presenter, described the system as a hands-on virtual platform that lets students inspect and interact with 3-D models of engines, human anatomy and other career simulations. "It uses all virtual reality to teach, and expose different jobs and careers to students," he said. A second speaker who participated in a demo told the board, "It's amazing for students that are interested in going into health or ... working on a car," citing the ability to dissect a motor on-screen.

Board members asked about logistics and timing. Staff said the proposed purchase included four units designed for rotational use in a class of roughly 15–16 students, with teacher training to follow purchase. If ordered, staff expected delivery and training after Christmas with classroom use beginning in January.

The motion to approve the zSpace quote for $20,147.12 was made and seconded and passed by roll call with all present members voting in favor.

The district will purchase the system with ISM grant funds; no additional local appropriation was recorded during the discussion. The board did not amend the purchase during the meeting.

The board’s approval clears the way for the vendor to schedule delivery and training; staff said they will follow up with logistics once purchase is completed.