In a recent event that highlighted the inventive prowess of young minds, the Columbus City Schools Invention Convention showcased the ingenuity of its students as they unveiled solutions to various real-world issues. As reported by CCS, the convention featured 36 students from various schools working on their inventive projects, tapping into their creativity to solve day-to-day challenges.

Among the participants was fifth-grader James Spoonmore from Ecole Kenwood French Immersion, who invented The Clap Cutter, a pair of scissors designed for those with hand disabilities. Using 3D printing technology, Spoonmore and his father developed a prototype that allows the user to cut by inserting a finger from each hand. "This was fun, and my dad got to help me," Spoonmore told CCS.

The convention is a stepping stone for further competition, with students aspiring to advance to the Regional Ohio Invention Competition after gaining strong feedback. Success at the regional level could lead to the State Competition and, possibly, the RTX Invention Convention U.S. Nationals in Michigan, with opportunities for awards, scholarships, and potential patent pursuits.

For Ridgeview sixth graders Mohammad Amiri and Haroon Takal, the trouble of sharing footwear in a home bustling with siblings inspired The 3-in-1 Shoe, an adaptable shoe that can function as a slipper, shoe, or boot. "It was going to cost too much for each person, so if we combine them all in one, it saves money," Amiri explained in a statement obtained by CCS. The initiative to foster innovation was echoed by Lovie Debnam, a gifted intervention specialist, and Debra Gill, who recounted the larger turnouts before the pandemic and her commitment to revitalizing the event's stature.

Participants were not only rewarded with a certificate and vital feedback but also with the realization that their creativity could significantly contribute to addressing the challenges their communities face. "There are some great minds in this room, and these students have amazing ideas," Gill highlighted the significance of the event and its potential in shaping the future, as noted by CCS. The CCS Invention Convention serves as a testament to the power of young inventors in transcending boundaries through creativity and determination.