To foster creativity in science, tech, engineering, and math (STEM) we need a maker-space. This is a learning environment that is more like a mad scientist's best-lab-ever, than a "traditional" classroom. It allows kids to tinker, wonder, build, solve, grapple, and learn together in a neat new way.
We are creators in every sense of the word!
The productive buzz in our room generates buzz around the school and in our community about the work we do. Our classroom community values creativity, inquiry, and taking apart problems big and small. We are in love with the unknown (it's much more fun than the known!) and enjoy getting as close to the bottom of things as we can--it helps us be in a constant state of curiosity and collaborative problem solving, which is how we operate best!
My Project
This raspberry pi isn't for dessert! The items we are requesting might seem like they would be at home in a garage or workshop, but we are going to use them to figure out how the world works, one toggle switch at a time. The materials we need for our maker-space will be complemented by donations from basements around the community (we are already promised an old, non-working TV!) and the tools we are asking for will give us a great foundation for tinkering and exploring. Our dream is an always-open (and very large) corner of the room that we can dip into when we are feeling inspired or need to unwind. Working with our hands is something we are always game for and our very own maker-space is just what we need to stoke our creative fires.
Nothing feels better than seeing someone or something light up and a maker-space will give us the opportunity for both!
Our community is a place where ideas light up all the time and a well-stocked maker-space will help us light up literally and figuratively. We suspect that the chance to fiddle and tinker with these creative materials will give kids practical opportunities to find out how things work but also inspire them to be a part of a collaborative scientific community.
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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. Gagner and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.