In early 2014, after having been at Clifton Hills for 6 months, I became acutely aware of my students’ lack of access to technology. I knew that I needed to provide them with access to technology in the library so that they could build digital literacy skills. I also wanted to foster a participatory learning experience which would allow students to take ownership of their learning. Numerous grant opportunities emerged through which I built a network of community partners who would share my mission and vision for the CHES Library MakerSpace.
I began by reaching out to the Chattanooga Public Library. After all, my inspiration for my library's makerspace came from spending time there. Many public library staff members contributed to the success of creating the CHES makerspace through participating in initial brainstorming and planning sessions. As we prepared to makeover the library, CPL staff members visited my school to collaborate on the best way to reconfigure the space. Neil Reid, a Leadership Chattanooga member, helped secure carts for storing books during the redesign phase and assisted with designing the CHES Library Makerspace signage.
The Public Education Foundation was a significant partner in my work as they mentored me through the STEM Fellow and TeacherPreneur programs for the 2014-2015 school year. Keri Randolph and Lauren Wade worked diligently to provide unique professional development opportunities for me. Keri inspired me when she said, "When great teachers gather together to share ideas, great things happen." Lauren made herself available to help out with projects and shopped with me for paint and supplies. More than just the standard grant-funding opportunities, both STEM Fellows and Teacherpreneur focus on developing teacher leaders who positively impact school communities.
Leadership Chattanooga's Team SuperNova helped to bring the MakerSpace to life! Sponsored by the Chattanooga Chamber, Team SuperNova coached my vision for the MakerSpace and worked to help me redesign the library and prioritize my budget. Over winter break, we rearranged the shelving, painted the space, and created four maker "nooks," flexible enough for any task. In the Spring, we installed fabulous signage. Finally, on May 13th, 2015, they assisted in the planning and hosting of our first community event: the MakerGala, which was attended by students, parents, teachers, and community members. It was the highlight of the year!
| Team SuperNova Members: Jeffery, Clint, Nel, Dionne, Lacey, Patricia, Matt, and Seth |
Jenny Whitener with Bright Spark led a Design Thinking Workshop (a problem-solving model) with my MakerClub students where we recreated the gift-giving experience. Jenny also allowed me to job-shadow her, and as a result, we continue to plan monthly design challenges which have become a key piece in the MakerSpace curriculum. This model requires students to think about their design, gather research through interviews and observations, and then synthesize that information for possible solutions. Students ultimately test the solutions and make adjustments as necessary.
The CHES MakerSpace could not be what it has become without these amazing people, and for that I am grateful. I learned so much from the opportunity to work with community partners. First, seek out opportunities. Momentum for my project came because I attended one meet-up to learn more about one grant opportunity. Second, have an elevator pitch, and don't be afraid to share it; you never know who you might meet, and you better be prepared to share your mission and vision! Third, ask for help. Fourth, remember to share your progress with your community partners. Finally, thank them every chance you get!
Look around your community... Who might be willing to help out with a specific project about which you are passionate? Do you have an elevator speech for your library? Have you shared your vision lately? Maybe you should!
