Learning Transformed with PTO Funding & VariQuest

East Bethel Elementary School in East Bethel, Minnesota has brought new energy and creativity to their classrooms with the help of the VariQuest® Learning Suite. After seeing the success of VariQuest in nearby schools, the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) at East Bethel Elementary funded their own VariQuest purchase through parent donations and proceeds from their annual Spring Fun Run. The school is now equipped with the Perfecta® Poster Design System, the Cutout Maker Digital Die-Cut Machine, the Motiva® Specialty Printing System, and the Design Center and Software. According to Office Professional Alissa Backsen, these tools have had an immediate impact by helping teachers create vibrant, engaging classroom materials and by transforming classrooms and common spaces into visually stimulating learning environments.

Bringing Learning to Life

From kindergarten through fifth grade, the VariQuest Suite has become an essential part of daily teaching and learning at East Bethel. In Kindergarten, teachers use the tools to create colorful birthday charts, letter walls, and vocabulary visuals that help students recognize words, understand routines, and feel a sense of belonging in their classrooms. “The visuals help make learning both fun and accessible,” said Backsen.

Specialist teachers have also found creative uses with the tools. The music teacher used the Cutout Maker to design a “Giving Pumpkin Patch” for the school’s fall festival, providing parents with a visually engaging way to see what supplies the music room needed. Meanwhile, the librarian has used the VariQuest tools to make the library a more fun and inviting space with bright signage, themed displays, and colorful reading labels that encourage students to explore new books.

In fifth grade, teachers regularly use the Perfecta® to print anchor charts, math and science visuals, and graphic organizers that guide group learning. The ability to print high-quality posters quickly has helped teachers reinforce complex concepts in a way that keeps students focused and engaged.

Visual Tools for Every Learner

East Bethel teachers say that one of the biggest advantages of using VariQuest is the ability to create differentiated learning materials quickly. “These visuals make lessons more interactive and easier for students to understand, especially for visual learners,” Backsen explained. Teachers can make flashcards, manipulatives, or customized projects that meet the needs of all students. 

In special education classrooms, the VariQuest tools are especially beneficial. Teachers use them to produce visual supports for communication, emotional regulation, and daily routines. Posters featuring safety procedures, emotion charts, and social reminders help students feel supported and confident throughout the day.

Saving Time and Building Creativity

Along with improving instruction, the VariQuest tools have saved teachers valuable time when having to create new materials and decorations for their classrooms. “Our staff have said the Cutout Maker has been a life-changer,” Backsen mentioned. “It has cut the time down drastically in making boards or projects for their kids.”

The Motiva® has also become a favorite tool for creating colorful labels, awards, and certificates, adding a personalized touch to classroom celebrations and school events. From seasonal displays to student projects, teachers say the VariQuest Suite has become their go-to solution for bringing ideas to life quickly and effectively.

Community-Funded, Schoolwide Impact

The story behind East Bethel’s VariQuest purchase is one of community and collaboration. The school’s PTO recognized how helpful the VariQuest Learning Suite could be after seeing its success elsewhere in the district and made it their fundraising priority. “It had been in the works for a while,” said Backsen. “Our other schools already had the tools, and teachers loved them.”

The investment has not only enhanced classroom instruction but has also strengthened the connection between families and the school community. Parents see firsthand the results of their contributions every time they walk the halls with colorful displays, student work showcased on vibrant posters, and inviting spaces that reflect creativity and pride.

Conclusion

With the support of their PTO and the addition of the VariQuest Learning Suite, East Bethel Elementary has created a more engaging and inspiring environment for both teachers and students. “These machines have made making bulletin boards, signs, and classroom visuals a breeze,” said Backsen. “Overall, the VariQuest tools enhance learning from Kindergarten through upper grades by making instruction more visual, interactive, and personalized.”