How to Start a Makerspace

A makerspace is a collaborative, engaging workspace where students can explore, create, and learn through hands-on experiences. In K-8 schools, a makerspace encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity while integrating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. This guide will help you start a makerspace tailored for elementary and middle school students. At High Country, we have chosen CE Makerspace to focus on Career Exploration (CE) in all fields of STEM.

Step 1: Define Your Vision and Goals

· Establish the purpose of your makerspace (e.g., STEM learning, creativity, teamwork, safe-to-fail zone, exploration, supplemental vs everyday schedule, etc). Identify the target age group and adapt activities to their skill levels. Align goals with school curriculum and learning objectives.

Step 2: Find a Location

· Choose a safe, accessible space within the school (classroom, library, unused room). Ensure the room is well-lit, has plenty of electricity, and has ample space for maker furniture, equipment, and supplies. Wish list items for a location include access to water, strong wifi connection, close proximity to commons space or extra space indoors or outside for various extended activities and challenges.

Step 3: Equipment and Materials

· Age-appropriate equipment such as 3D printers and laser engravers will be recommended by your consultant, along with age-appropriate STEM activities and lesson plans. Save recyclable DIY art and craft supplies: Paper, markers, cardboard, clay, tape, shoe boxes, paper towel rolls, cardboard, etc.  Hands-on learning kits, tinkering and engineering kits, electronics, coding, design modeling, and many more educational zones can be created throughout the makerspace.

Step 4: Secure Funding and Support

· Apply for grants from local community grant opportunities, educational and STEM-focused organizations, and national grants. There are LOTS of grant opportunities throughout the calendar year. Partner with parents, PTAs, and local businesses for donations. Organize fundraising events to gather resources. Public school funds and grants that have assisted with makerspace funding include Title funds, Operations funds, Capital Projects funds, CTE grants, Summer School grants, 21st Century grants, etc.

Step 5: Develop Programs and Activities

· Create structured activities suitable for different age levels. Offer guided projects such as building simple circuits, coding games, or designing structures. Encourage open-ended exploration where students can create freely. Focus real-world problem-solving initiatives to apply in the classroom and in the local community.

Step 6: Foster a Collaborative Environment

· Promote teamwork and problem-solving through group projects. Train teachers and volunteers to facilitate makerspace activities. Display student creations to encourage pride and engagement. Develop career connections and ask local workforce to connect with the makerspace initiatives and share career opportunities that relate.

Step 7: Ensure Sustainability

· Regularly restock materials and maintain equipment. Integrate makerspace activities into the regular curriculum. Gather feedback from students and educators to improve the space. Market the makerspace by recording school events, presenting daily announcements, and performing the edits and behind the scenes efforts from within the makerspace.

In conclusion, elementary and middle school makerspace can spark creativity, innovation, and a love for STEM learning at an early age. By providing a structured yet flexible environment, students can develop essential skills that will follow them to the high school, all while having fun. With proper planning and support, your makerspace will become a valuable part of the school community.

For more information, contact Chad Hudson at [email protected] or (317) 649-0280