Makerspace

One of the key ways Berkshire Local Schools is helping to equip students of all ages with the future-ready skills and attributes required for today’s competitive workforce is through the district’s Makerspace classroom. Overseen by Mr. Chis Kostiha, the Makerspace provides students in grades PK-12 with opportunities to apply their creativity and classroom knowledge in a student-driven, hands-on environment to produce finished products. Students have at their disposal an assortment of machines including 3-D printers and carving machines, a laser etcher and printer, and vinyl printer. Additional hardware, materials, and related programs are used in conjunction with the machines to create an assortment of professional grade, final products including posters, decals, plaques, and other items.

Before beginning any project, students learn important safety procedures and become familiar with using the equipment that will be utilized for the project. Students at each school also learn a developmentally appropriate model of the engineering design process which they practice and implement while creating their finished product.

There are three main types of projects that utilize the Makerspace. Through Project Based Learning (PBL) projects, students take the lead in the learning process under the supervision of classroom teachers and Mr. Kostiha. The culture and innovations of Ancient Rome came to life for seventh grade World Studies class students thanks to an engaging project-based learning opportunity in the district’s Makerspace. Incorporating the study of Roman culture, art, and the “lost” formula of Roman concrete and mortar, the project began by asking students to design a “Romanesque” image that featured elements representing the Berkshire Locals Schools. Using various tools in the Makerspace, students transformed their creative design into Mosaic pieces which were then adhered to a wall backing using Roman mortar composed of authentic volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius! The mosaic will now be displayed prominently in the school as a source of Badger pride and inspiration for future generations of students. 

Berkshire’s home track meets will now prominently feature community sponsors on hurdle signage thanks to a collaboration between the Athletic Department and the district’s Makespace. Student-athletes utilized various Makerspace tools and machines, digital programs, and power tools to complete the project. After deconstructing the track hurdles, students brought them to the Makerspace for preparation. Using a large format printer, the students printed labels of Berkshire Athletics sponsors on a specialized weather resistant vinyl which was then adhered to the hurdle facings. The new signage feature not only celebrates our community sponsors for their dedicated support but reflects the Badger pride that our students take in their academic and co-curricular activities. Watch the following video for highlights of our students using the Makerspace to create the hurdle signage!

Students can also assist with on-demand projects from teachers and administrators, such as instructional and promotional materials using the Makerspace. From posters advertising upcoming school events and fundraisers to simple repairs on classroom items, these projects empower students to sharpen their skills and knowledge while making a positive impact in the district.

The Makerspace also provides opportunities to help community partners and local businesses. Students engage in real-world learning by fulfilling a variety of project requests. Kent State Geauga Campus has enlisted the help of students to create a variety of printed items, including a Pledge Card for the School of Nursing’s White Coat Ceremony and a vinyl poster displaying the faculty for each academic department.

Now entering the fourth year at the district's state-of-the-art PK-12 campus, Berkshire teachers and students alike will continue to explore the endless possibilities for creativity and project-based learning through the Makerspace.