Scott McElroy is about to add a new toy to his classroom’s technological toolbox.

Through the online charity DonorsChoose.org, the technology education teacher raised $2,453 to purchase a 3D printer for his students.

“It’s the latest and greatest technology,” said McElroy, who teaches at Old Rochester Regional High School. The printer will let students “download” digital assignments into the class.

The SketchUp design program lets students produce three-dimensional models. McElroy said without the printer this is where the hands-on part of the lesson ends.

Instead of remaining on screen, students will soon be able to hold their creations courtesy of the printer.

Using spools of plastic, the machine builds a design by melting plastic in layers as thin as one millimeter, from the bottom up. It will allow students learn about the future of manufacturing from concept to the creation of a physical model, all in one room.

With school budgets tight, McElroy took advantage of an offer from MakerBot, a manufacturer of 3D printers.

During the fundraiser, the company matched community donations, up to a $100, for a week. On Nov. 21, enough money had been raised to purchase and deliver the printer.

The company wants to put a 3D printer in every school. Students will benefit by using cutting edge manufacturing technology, McElroy said.

“[MakerBot] has made a real big push in recent years to get theses printers into classrooms,” McElroy said.