Global Cardboard Challenge Ignites Creativity for Students

By: Amanda Ridder

Staff Writer

Photo Courtesy of:

Amanda Ridder

Photo Description:

(Left to Right) Matthew Sanchez, Bryan Ascencio, Dominic Calvario, Chandler Sargent, Alan Sargent, Allie Sotelo, Allison Anguiano, Christina Anguiano, Kathy Lara, Walela Hathaway, Emily Riras, Nicke’l Donnelly, Dean Phelps, Joy Hemsley, Emma Lewis, Jamie Laughlin, Agila Hathaway, Tristan Romriell, Rivers Romriell, Jayden Hemsely, Maya Medina, Jazmin Bolduc, Jodi Deroos, Monta Romriell, Nancy Blais, Kari Hemsely, Stacey Phelps, Karen Morgan, Rebecca Taua’I, and Savannah Makia’okalani.

Kids of all ages were invited to build anything they can dream of (arcades, machines, labyrinths, robots, games, etc.) using cardboard and recycled materials on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Mojave River Academy for the First Annual Global Cardboard Challenge. Inspired by the short film “Caine’s Arcade,” the event celebrated children’s creativity and the role communities can play in fostering creative development for students. Inventions such as a Marble Run, Roller Maze, Target Toss, and more were created by K-12 students at the Independent Study Charter School, which holds 13 centers throughout the Inland Empire. “Everything we do is completely individualized,” said Rebecca Taua’I, Colton Center Administrator. “We have kids that are excelling, and kids that we’re trying to get caught up. I feel like we really help a huge range of students in the community.” Students from the Ontario, Colton, Beaumont, and Fontana centers were present for the challenge. The challenge not only ignited the desire for students to utilize their imaginations, but also the desire to socialize with their fellow classmates. “Since we’re an Independent Study program, a lot of the kids don’t get social interactions that they normally do,” Taua’I added. “It’s amazing just to see their imaginations work, and seeing how they start processing how they want to put things together.” Sharing their creations with their peers gave students the opportunity to break out of their comfort zones and make new friends. “They get the chance to play together,” said Jazmin Bolduc, Elementary School. Crafty and innovative minds showcased their unique projects to friends and family who were eager to get in on the games.