Gates Invention and Innovation Program 2024
At Graland Country Day School, the spirit of innovation thrives through the Charles C. Gates Invention and Innovation Program. Established in 1999, this unique program offers students in grades 5-8 the opportunity to explore their creativity, invent new products, and potentially earn a U.S. patent. Funded by an endowment from Charles C. Gates '34, the program has become a hallmark of Graland's commitment to fostering a growth mindset.
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."
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.
Grades 7/8
First Place
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
Second Place
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
Assistive device to be used by leg amputees and people with lower body injuries to ensure safety and stability while showering
Third Place
Whip-A-Stick | Henry C.
Weighted lacrosse stick to use for practice and conditioning
Weighted lacrosse stick to use for practice and conditioning
Patent Nod
Dash Flash | Yuubo F. and Ella R.
A light system that can alert a hearing impaired driver when an emergency vehicle is near.
Grades 5/6
First Place
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
Second Place
Dignity for Dementia | Walker C.
Good-looking outfits for dementia patients designed to be difficult for patients to remove
Third Place (Tie)
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.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
