In December 2019, Kaimuki Middle School Library was awarded a $10,000 Innovation Grant by the Department of Education.

The goal of the grant is to provide students with STEM opportunities to use cutting-edge technology in the Library Makerspace to make the Design Thinking Process (Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test) come alive. Students are encouraged to think differently and use innovative ideas to creatively solve real-world problems. The Design Thinking process itself is meant to empower students with a growth mindset as failure is seen not as the end but as part of the learning process. The project also promotes equity as equipment is housed in the library where every student has access and is welcomed and nurtured.