MassCUE is proud to celebrate Nick Grout as our Featured Educator for October 2025!

When Dover-Sherborn teacher Nick Grout set out to build a retro arcade machine with his students, he never expected the project would spark such excitement—or recognition. What started as his personal interest in creating a MAME (Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator) machine turned into a hands-on, collaborative experience where students built their very own arcade cabinets using Raspberry Pi, wood, wiring, and plenty of ingenuity.

Students worked in groups to design, program, and construct a variety of arcade machines, from compact bar-top models to full-size standing cabinets. Along the way, they explored skills in coding, wiring, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills that extend well beyond the walls of the classroom.

For Grout, the project wasn’t about producing perfect machines or becoming experts in electronics. It was about exposing students to new opportunities and encouraging them to take risks. As he explained, “It’s not about trying to get a kid to be an expert in any area. Just open their eyes to a potential thing they could chase.”

This philosophy of exploration and growth is at the core of his teaching. Grout recognizes that stepping out of the “expert” role and learning alongside students can be uncomfortable for teachers—but also rewarding.

“I think one of the things that teachers truly struggle with is not being the expert, not being perfect. I think we all want to stand in front of the classroom and always have all the right answers.”

By embracing this mindset, Grout has created space for students to experiment, fail, and succeed in ways that foster creativity and confidence.

The success of the arcade project has drawn attention from peers and organizations alike, leading to his recognition as MassCUE’s October Featured Educator. But for Grout, the recognition is simply an added bonus.

“I was just doing something cool with my kids and being paid to do it,” he said with a laugh. “I never expected any of this.”

Beyond the arcade project, Grout continues to explore how new tools, including AI, can support both teachers and students by streamlining workflows and sparking innovation. He also acknowledges the challenges that come with leadership roles—like navigating the logistics of conference planning—but remains motivated by the encouragement he receives from colleagues and organizations like MassCUE.

Grout’s work is a reminder that impactful teaching isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating opportunities for students to discover new passions, take risks, and grow. His arcade project is just one example of how meaningful learning can happen when curiosity leads the way.

Nick Grout Bio:

I’ve been teaching at Dover-Sherborn for 20 years, and for the last 10 years I’ve served as the Department Chair for Technology, Engineering, and Computer Science in grades 6–12. I started at DS when I was just 22 years old, right out of Fitchburg State University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree. Since then, I’ve gone on to complete a master’s degree in Technology/Engineering from Fitchburg State and a CAGS in School Administration (6–12) from American International College.

In my time at DS, I’ve taught Engineering, Woodworking, and CAD using Chief Architect. One of my biggest passions is keeping the curriculum fresh and relevant as technology evolves. Over the years, I’ve incorporated CNC machining, 3D printing, and laser cutting into my classes, giving students hands-on experience with industry-level tools. As Department Chair, I’ve also helped expand our program by adding more than a dozen new courses, aligning the curriculum across grades 6–12, and introducing AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A.

I love pushing the limits of what we can do in the classroom. Some of my favorite projects include building a 14’ x 7’ hovercraft, custom mini-chopper motorcycles, and even converting a Mercedes to run on waste oil. Recently, our full-scale arcade project was a highlight—it brought together so many skills from across our courses into one massive capstone experience.

I also believe in supporting my department and encouraging colleagues to take academic risks. It’s okay not to have all the answers, and it’s okay for students to see that you’re not perfect. In fact, they respect it when they see you willing to push your own limits and learn alongside them. That mindset has shaped how I teach, how I lead, and how I continue to grow as an educator.

Outside the classroom, I spent 12 years as the head coach of the Dover-Sherborn girls’ hockey team, where I enjoyed helping athletes grow as teammates and leaders. Whether in athletics or academics, I’m driven by the belief that students thrive when given opportunities to explore, create, and apply their skills in meaningful ways.