Westwood Student Gains New Independence Thanks to PHS Robotics Team’s Ingenuity

Westwood student Jace Petersen has always faced unique challenges on the playground. As a special needs PPS student, navigating uneven terrain and keeping up with his peers has often felt out of reach—until now. Thanks to a heartwarming collaboration between educators, students, and the PHS Twin Rivers Robotics Team, Jace is experiencing a whole new level of independence and freedom.

It all started when Jace’s physical therapist reached out to a few high school teachers, expressing a need: Jace required an all-terrain walker, something more versatile than the standard equipment he had been using. The cost of such a unit, sometimes called a "beach walker", typically ranges between $1,200 and $1,800—an overwhelming price for many families. But that didn’t stop the passionate minds at Twin Rivers Robotics.

Coach Chip Weygandt, who leads the Robotics team at PHS, heard about Jace’s situation through the teacher network. Inspired by the opportunity to make a real difference, he rallied his team of high school students to take on the challenge.

Using Jace’s older walker as a foundation, the students went to work, designing a custom all-terrain version that would meet his specific needs. They created the design using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, carefully planning each modification. Then, using their school’s 3D printer and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine, they brought the design to life—cutting, printing, and assembling the new components with precision and care.

What emerged from their efforts was nothing short of incredible: a rugged, functional, and thoughtfully engineered walker that allows Jace to explore the playground with a whole new level of confidence.

And the cost? Just about $100 in materials.

The smile on Jace’s face says it all. He’s not just moving—he’s thriving. With his new walker, he’s able to play more freely, engage more fully with classmates, and enjoy the kind of independence every child deserves.

Coach Weygandt and the students of the Twin Rivers Robotics Team didn’t just build a piece of equipment—they built a bridge to freedom and inclusion. Their project is a powerful reminder of what happens when innovation, compassion, and education come together.

In a world where technology often feels out of reach, Jace’s story shows just how accessible and life-changing it can be—especially when driven by heart.