A Teacher’s 3D-Printed Gift Brings One Fourth-Grader a Brand-New Hand

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.  — Ephesians 4:32

You ever come across a story that just makes your heart smile? Down in Glasgow, Kentucky, a young boy named Jackson Farmer now has a new 3D-printed hand — not from a fancy lab, but from the kindness and creativity of his schoolteacher, Mr. Scott Johnson.

Mr. Johnson, who teaches STEAM at Red Cross Elementary, decided to turn classroom curiosity into something life-changing. With a 3D printer and a little help from an online community of makers, he designed and built Jackson a working prosthetic — one that flexes and moves with the boy’s own wrist. No wires, no motors, just clever design and a whole lot of heart.

When Jackson first slipped it on, his face said everything. His mom shared that he didn’t even want to take it off. And honestly, who could blame him? It’s not just a hand — it’s independence, it’s confidence, it’s proof that kindness and innovation make a powerful team.

Now, Mr. Johnson isn’t stopping there. He’s already planning a backup version and says he’s ready to help any other child who needs one. That’s the kind of teacher every parent prays their child gets — the kind who sees potential not just in students, but in simple acts of love.

Stories like this remind us that the world still has plenty of good people doing quiet, amazing things. Sometimes, it just takes one teacher and a printer to show how bright hope can shine.