FAQ
What is a Makerspace?
A Makerspace is a creative educational environment outfitted with electronics, hardware and software, craft supplies and tools, where our learning community can gather to create, invent and learn. We are focusing on providing structure and supports for inquiry based learning across the curriculum.
What is the Background & Purpose?
The genesis of this initiative started in the spring of 2015, when our school improvement council (SIC) met to establish strategic goals for the Kennedy School over the next 3 years. During our discussions, the SIC desired to (1) expand our school learning focus to Science - not only to the subjects of ELA and Math that often receive considerable supports due to standardized testing. (2) provide access to all students to engage in 21st century learning. Whether or not our families have the ability to provide STEAM structure and support at home, we believe it is essential to provide all students with 21st century skills and creative learning opportunities in school that promote critical thinking. To summarize, the goal of this initiative is to support Science education and give all students exposure to 21st century skills and knowledge - from circuits to robots to creative thinking and inquiry.
How did we select a partner?
After meeting with several local universities and 2 education start-up companies about a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) partnership, the SIC believed that collaborating with Lesley University would best serve our learning community. Lesley is a renowned graduate school of education and fortunately is right in our backyard. Our new partnership will include helping us to design and build out a Makerspace/ Innovation Lab and ongoing coaching from trained Lesley Staff to co-design 21st century STEAM learning projects with our Kennedy Teachers in the spring. Ultimately, we believe that a Makerspace designed for K-8 students naturally ignites creativity, collaboration, and problem solving among children and helps develop 21st century skills. Whether engaging in simple programming with KIBOs (robot kits) or Scratch, to complex kinetic art sculptures or 3D printing, both students and educators will have an opportunity to be involved with activities and resources fully supporting STEAM content and practice standards.
How Can I Help?
If you are interested in helping with our makerspace, please contact Lindsey Tosches, Makerspace Coordinator, directly at ltosches@k12.somerville.ma.us
How can I engage my child at home?
There are many online resources for at home STEAM activities. For some ideas, check out the link below to our STEAM Activities pinterest board.
