Innovation in Action News

Westwood fifth and sixth grade students delivered Shark Tank presentations after using the SLP 3D Design Process (Discover, Design, Deliver) to solve a problem or provide a new product that serves a need for themselves or society.

Students worked in groups to design their product and created a name for their product and company. Each group was challenged to use a coffee sleeve, such as those from Caribou and Starbucks, as well as other recyclable materials from the Makerspace area when developing their product.

After working hard on their products and receiving constructive feedback from district staff members as well as Nate Grahek, Founder & CEO of StickyAlbums, each team delivered sales pitches to a panel of five Shark Tank members. Each Shark had the opportunity to ask questions after the pitches and then decided if they were “in” or “out.”

Straying from the traditional ways of Shark Tank, the goal of the Shark panel was to provide thoughtful feedback and questions instead of investing in the product.

“Because the challenge was to focus on incorporating a coffee sleeve and provide a new product, teams weren’t looking for investments from the Sharks as in a regular Shark Tanks, but rather have the Sharks understand the needs and usefulness of their product,” said Westwood GT/STEM Specialist Amanda West.

Students JD, Noah and Isaac named their company Faze and developed the Faze Litter Hoop, designed to make throwing away garbage more enjoyable. The group took a medium sized garbage can and then used coffee sleeves and other materials to make a ramp around the edges of the can, compete with a miniature basketball hoop on one side.

"Throwing away garbage has never been more fun," said the Faze company. "And we guarantee you’ll never miss."

A few notable companies and products included:

• Kens Co, Customer’s Customizable Bracelet – A bracelet that can change to match any outfit, anytime
• ZJS Co., The Duct Tape Cup – A giant coffee cup guaranteed to help any coffee lover get through the day
• JG-MN Co., Easy Drinker – A simple, on the go drinking pack with straps designed for hikers and travelers
• M & M, The Pet Pack – A pack filled with entertaining toys for pets
• EYE, The Totes Awesome Tote – A tote designed for accident prone iPad users to help avoid dropping and damaging the device

View more Shark Tank photos here

Step 1: Discover

Step 2: Design

Step 3: Deliver