What do LEGOS, duct tape, boxes, and straws have in common? They have the makings for innovation and creativity. Often, I see a student enter St. Philip carrying a box or roll of tape. When questioned why, a typical response is, “My friends and I are going to make something at recess.” Ultimately, these items will be used to construct something.

Over the years, St. Philip received several dreams including LEGOS, a STEM cart, and coding robots. All of these previous grant items will set the foundation for a designated Makerspace. It is my wish to build on this foundation by adding several components listed in the Dream. The LEGO baseplates will be used to create a LEGO wall. Students can build their creations vertically rather than only horizontal. Students may use the art materials to explore their artistic abilities. The K-NEX Maker Kit, Keva planks, and Brackitz STEM Classic Inventor Kit will be used for design and invention. The 3D printer will expand the students’ spatial reasoning skills and 2D to 3D conversion. They can design, create, and ultimately visualize their imaginations.

This Makerspace Dream is designed for children of all ages from preschool through eighth grade. There is something for every age and ability level. I envision this area as an evolving space and it is my hope to continue to add to this space over time.

Realization of this Extreme Makeover: Makerspace Edition Dream would provide our students with a space filled with items in which to build critical thinking skills. Teachers can use the Makerspace with their students to provide connections between lessons and the real world. Students are encouraged to think “outside the box” as they design, create, test, and problem-solve. They can collaborate with others and learn to work together as a team. The Makerspace will also help students develop 21st century thinking skills. It is our hope the Makerspace helps students discover new interests and potential career paths.

 

Fund this Dream for $1,896.03.