The Gates Program encourages students to "tinker, create, and innovate.” With a focus on identifying and addressing real-world challenges, participants are guided to think empathically to develop practical, functional inventions that make everyday life easier, safer, or more efficient. After working on their inventions and innovations for months, the program culminates in March at the Gates Expo, where students display and demonstrate their unique inventions to the Graland community and a panel of judges. 

Emery H., a first place winner this year, shared that “The opportunity Gates presented me with was incredible. The teachers were always super helpful, and combined with lots of trial and error, I got to a prototype I was proud of. It was an amazing lesson in critical thinking and perseverance, for that I am grateful!”

Brynn A., a second place winner added "I participated in the Gates Innovation and Invention Program because I wanted to improve my idea from last year and I have always had fun while doing it. Since the goal of a 2.0 is to enhance and set it apart from the original, it requires a lot of work. This has taught me that even when you encounter problems it is important to get back up, figure out what you did wrong, and fix it in order to get the product you want. Throughout this year it took me many tries to be satisfied with the Shower Crutch but it was worth it and I had fun while doing it."  

There were many amazing inventions at the Gates Expo this year, and congratulations to the select few who were further recognized at the final assembly for their innovative ideas. 

The Locker Hub | Charlie C. and Emery H.

A screen to be installed on student lockers that is programmed with student schedule, homework due, and other reminders

 

The Shower Crutch 2.0 | Brynn A.
Assistive device to be used by leg amputees and people with lower body injuries to ensure safety and stability while showering

 

Whip-A-Stick | Henry C.
Weighted lacrosse stick to use for practice and conditioning

 

Dash Flash | Yuubo F. and Ella R.

A light system that can alert a hearing impaired driver when an emergency vehicle is near.

 

Arthritic Phone Case | Aidan N., Jack L. and Ryan W.

A phone case with more surface area designed to be easier to hold by people who suffer from arthritis

 

Dignity for Dementia | Walker C.

Good-looking outfits for dementia patients designed to be difficult for patients to remove

 

Winter Watch Window | Carter T.

Wrist watch sleeve with a plastic touch through screen where you can see the face of your watch while keeping your sleeves down

 

Buckle Up 2.0 | Bentley O.

A car seat buckle attachment to make it harder for children to unbuckle themselves from their carseats

To view the Gates Invention and Innovation photo gallery, click here. To learn more about the Gates Invention and Innovation program, visit our website here.