We need to see "the library as a place of creation and not just a place of consumption" -Carson Block, Demco webninar. I am challenging myself, my students and my community to understand the evolving role of libraries as just not a repository for books, but a place to create!
I am the librarian at a small public school which is nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina.
My school has 150 students of many diverse and unique backgrounds. We are a Title 1 school with over 65% of our students qualifying for free or reduced lunch. Numerous families receive weekend food assistance in their child's backpack from our local food bank. Many of my students are reluctant readers and an academic success does not come easily or quickly. I strive to create a media center that is warm, safe and welcoming while maintaining a fun, creative learning atmosphere.
My Project
With these materials my students will take the beginning steps to create a Makerspace area in our library media center. Makerspaces are where students can collaboratively and creatively extend their learning by doing or making. Perhaps students will recreate the setting in a book we just read aloud or use the Legos to create an an alternate ending to a story. The sky is the limit! Additionally, I wish to create a collaborative, school wide Lego Makerspace at our checkout area. Each month will feature a theme (seasons,weather, animal, etc.) and for every book a child reads, they can add a Lego to the developing creation. We will take a daily picture of the evolving creation and at the end of the month, make a video of the creation from beginning to end. With shrinking school budgets, it is hard to cobble together supplies to fund a Makerspace. I know these materials will help get their creative juices flowing!
While my media center still performs the essential function of connecting kids with quality reading material, my students need the materials to create a 21st century Makerspace.
As an educator, it is motivating to see your students eager to collaborate and use critical thinking skills to make innovative, creative learning projects. Please help my students realize ALL students have artistic talents and academic abilities. Help us creatively shape our world!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Lunsford and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
