Challenge-Based Learning with VariQuest

Innovations Academy, serving students in Sparta, Wisconsin, is a 6th through 8th grade STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) school that uses real-world problem solving and experiences. They have enhanced student engagement and creativity since adding the VariQuest® Cutout Maker Digital Die-Cut Machine to their school and according to teacher Ms. Lakowske, the Cutout Maker has become an essential tool for their challenge-based learning and technology classes. It has allowed students to take ownership of their projects while building real-world skills in creativity, communication, and presentation. Purchased through funding from a school expansion grant, the VariQuest tool has provided teachers with modern, efficient resources that both support instruction and help students produce professional, personalized visuals to showcase their work.

Enhancing Learning Through Projects

Several projects and activities at Innovations STEM Academy highlight the impact of the VariQuest® Cutout Maker. Students frequently design labels, titles, and subheadings for their individual projects, making their presentations more organized and engaging. Teachers also use the tool to create bulletin boards connected to challenge-based learning topics, reinforcing academic themes in a visually appealing way.

In a recent material science unit, students cut out puzzle pieces with vocabulary words to match with definitions, turning study sessions into fun, interactive games. Additionally, students designed and produced posters to invite families to the material science fair, giving them the opportunity to showcase their learning to the wider community.

“This tool is engaging to students as the system is so easy to learn,” explains Ms. Lakowske.

Building Real-World Skills and Engagement

The VariQuest® Cutout Maker has transformed how students approach learning at Innovations STEM Academy. By creating their own visuals, students not only take ownership of their projects but also develop practical skills such as creativity, design, and presentation. These experiences prepare them to communicate effectively in real-world settings.

Teachers have also found the tool to be beneficial in addressing classroom challenges. With each student working on unique projects as part of challenge-based learning, producing banners, flyers, and handouts for every project could be overwhelming. The Cutout Maker simplifies this process, ensuring that all students have access to high-quality materials to support their work. 

“The use of banners, flyers, and handouts can be challenging with our individual projects, so this tool helps support that”, says Ms. Lakowske.

Support for Special Education and Communication

Special education classrooms at Innovations STEM Academy have embraced the VariQuest® Cutout Maker as well. Teachers use it to create individual communication boards and visual reminders for schedule changes, helping provide consistency and support for students with unique needs. These personalized resources ensure that every student has access to the tools they need to succeed.

Positive Feedback and Schoolwide Impact

The response to VariQuest has been overwhelmingly positive. Students enjoy using the Cutout Maker because of its ease of use and how it allows them to get creative, while teachers appreciate its ability to produce visually appealing materials quickly and effectively. Families have also noticed the engaging visuals displayed around the school and at events, further strengthening connections between home and school.

Conclusion

With the VariQuest® Cutout Maker, Innovations STEM Academy has created a learning environment where students are empowered to be creators. From enhancing challenge-based learning projects to supporting special education and family engagement, the Cutout Maker has become more than just a machine—it’s a tool that sparks creativity, ownership, and real-world skill development. As Ms. Lakowske shares, “VariQuest is a great way to personalize learning and create appealing visuals that support students.”