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RAHS Innovation Center Sprouts New Skills For Students:
RAHS Innovation Center Sprouts New Skills For Students:
By, McKenzie Osborne
RAHS Students and staff have officially gained access to the new school Innovation Center, which was constructed over the summer in response to last year’s successful referendum. The center brings a modern space with an incredible array of technology for students to use for real-world learning.
“We’re looking to combine kids’ artistic abilities with 21st century skills so that they can design and create things in their own spaces,” said Associate Principal, Mr. Matt Bauer.
The new facility will serve as a “maker’s space” and features labs in fabrication, textiles, and 3-D printing. This includes digital modeling and engineering software as well as Cricut machines and heat presses. Such technology allows students to put their creative ideas into action.
“I think that being in the space will be a great opportunity for hands-on activities and really foster entrepreneurship skills for students,” said Principal Mrs. Katie Mathews.
How to Use the Innovation Center:
The official opening day for the fabrication labs has not yet been determined as staff continues to be trained on how to use all the equipment successfully. Second semester will feature the Innovation Center’s emerging capabilities when the school’s first prototyping and design class kicks off under the expertise of Mr. Mark Gronley.
Innovation Center computer lab.
Students looking to check out a conference room can talk to the new innovation center paraprofessional, Ms. Lindsay Schultz to find out availability options. If they are planning on working in a conference or flex classroom during a scheduled class period, students will need to provide a pass from their teacher before beginning to work.
“Our hope is to eventually be open in the evening for the community if people want to come in and utilize some of our stuff here,” said Mathews.
After students and staff have become used to the space, the plan is to offer an open house date in late October or early November for anybody in Reedsburg to come and experience the Innovation Center for themselves. Until then, it will only be available for students during school hours.
“It looks pretty good, I’m excited.” said Aidan Liegel '27 in regards to the Innovation Center.
Whether students have formulated their opinion on the new school space or not, the Innovation Center is here to stay, and it will be waiting for those ready to use it.
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