HASLETT - Haslett schools have received a generous gift thanks to the Meridian Township Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the Foundation for Haslett schools who donated $900 to the "Mini-Maker Foundation" in order to provide the schools with a 3D printer.

The Foundation for Haslett schools asked the EDC to match their efforts by making this donation. Chris Buck, Meridian EDC Chair, said that corporation was more than willing to make this donation in order to help with the increase of technology in schools.

"Meridian Township is known for its rigorous academic institutions and the great schooling that we have here. It came to our attention that these 3D printers in the school districts have been happening for the last several years in other Michigan schools. So we felt it was really important we stay at the forefront of technology and not only catch up, but make sure we kind of stay ahead of the curve," said Buck.

The 3D printer is used in the schools as part of their STEM program (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). According to STEM teacher at Ralya Elementary Stephanie Horwath, the printers are used to help teach children how things are made and also how to design their own creations.

The 3D printer has been shared between both Ralya and Murphy Elementary schools however, the EDC made another donation earlier this month which will allow both schools to have their own printer.