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. Seventh grade students in Mrs. Bartosic’s World Studies class used their critical thinking skills to determine the strength of Roman concrete versus modern-day concrete, using the Makerspace area to make and evaluate the strength of bricks composed of each type of concrete. This project was also made possible through donated materials such as hydrogenated lime, aggregates, and volcanic ash.

 

Under the guidance of the district’s occupational therapy team, Berkshire Elementary School students in Mr. Kostiha’s Makerspace classroom applied their creativity to design, print, and install sensory and vinyl decals to create a sensory motor wall. The new educational feature supports the diverse needs of students while fostering their overall development and academic success.

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 in the third 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.