HMS received a $10,000 grant from the Henderson IDS Education Foundation for a makerspace project. A makerspace is a collaborative learning environment where students can explore, create, and innovate. It is also a place where the normal rules of classroom learning are tossed aside in favor of just a couple—have fun, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
A makerspace project can be done by individuals or teams with varying ability levels. An HMS makerspace will provide various tools and materials, such as electronics, robotics, 3D printing, sewing, art, Legos, and more. Students will be able to work on projects that are fun, educational, and rewarding, as it allows participants to express their creativity, learn new skills, and solve real-world challenges. Many of these activities will directly support curriculum in the classroom. However, makerspace learning provides benefits beyond academics. Makerspaces teach skills such as flexibility, collaboration, adaptability, oral and written communication, information literacy, technology literacy, productivity, social skills, leadership, initiative, critical thinking, and problem solving. A makerspace allows learning new skills through trial and error, experiencing failure of an initial idea, the exploration of possible alternatives, and then problem solving to improve on an idea. Finally, makerspaces support goals such as equity of access, creating meaningful relationships, and promoting lifelong learning. HMS has the goal to create a makerspace learning environment that makes our students feel safe, inspired, and capable. We look forward to seeing this space take shape and watching our students learn and create.