Educators often get a front row seat to see their students realizing their potential. Those lightbulb moments when a new concept clicks are what a lot of educators say keep them going. Intervention Specialist Elena North and Occupational Therapist Maddy Schnabel recently got a front row seat to see their student, Cy, write his name for the first time - something that was possible because of the custom assistive device they designed and 3-D printed to enable him to use crayons, markers, and pens, just like his peers. In this episode, Maddy and Elena share their ongoing journey to overcome challenges to help unlock Cy's potential. And they share their dreams for Cy's future: Whatever he dreams for himself.

SEE CY IN ACTION | Click here to watch the Ohio School Spotlight video featuring Cy's story, or watch this short social media video to see Cy using his new assistive device for yourself.

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES | Educators who are considering whether 3-D printed devices can help their students are welcome to pick Maddy and Elena's brains about what they've learned so far in the design and printing process. Please email [email protected] to get in touch with them.

SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE | If you have an education topic you're passionate about or know about great work educators are doing in your Local, we want to hear from you on the podcast! Please email us at [email protected]

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Featured Public Education Matters guests: 

• Elena North, Intervention Specialist, Anthony Wayne Education Association member
  • Elena North is an Intervention Specialist at Monclova Primary School with a background in Special Education and certifications in Mild–Moderate and Moderate–Intensive disabilities, serving students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. 
  • Now in her third year of teaching, Elena is committed to providing student centered-instruction that meets learners where they are and supports their growth across academic, social, and daily living skills. 
  • Guided by the belief that every child deserves an equitable education, Elena emphasizes adapting instruction to match how students learn best. She prioritizes maintaining a structured, predictable learning environment where students can expect clear expectations and consistency–an approach that reduces anxiety, builds trust, and supports meaningful communication and positive behavior. 
  • A recent highlight of Elena’s work is her role in co-leading the Reaching for Independence while Striving for Excellence (R.I.S.E.) program alongside colleague Lauren Whalen. The weekly program provides students with authentic, real-world opportunities to practice social, academic, and functional life skills. Through her work, Elena strives to help students build confidence, independence, and essential skills needed to reach their fullest potential beyond the classroom.
• Maddy Schnabel, OTD, OTR/L, Teachers Association of Lucas County Schools member
  • Madeline Schnabel is a school-based occupational therapist with a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of Toledo with a graduate certificate in Teaming in Early Childhood. With three and half years of experience, she is dedicated to helping students participate in meaningful school activities and develop skills that support their independence now and into the future. 
  • Employed by the Educational Service Center of Northwest Ohio and serving the Anthony Wayne Local Schools district, Maddy also serves as an adjunct faculty member in The University of Toledo’s OTD program. 
  • Maddy builds strong relationships with students, helping them feel supported and confident when facing new or challenging tasks. A recent highlight of her work includes creating a 3-D printed device to enhance student participation in the classroom.

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About us:

• The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio’s schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio’s children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio’s schools.
• Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. 

This episode was recorded on November 20, 2025.