The makerspace, which emphasizes learning in science, technology, engineering, arts and math, gives students a place to create and solve authentic problems.

“There’s a lot going on at once, but our groups are self-directed and independent,” said teacher Morgan Leider as she worked with sixth-graders using Dash and Dot smart robots.

Students used iPads to connect to the robots via Bluetooth, using an app to control movement, add sound effects and change lighting colors.

Madalyn Schweitzer said she’s learned to control and code electronics during her time in the makerspace. Designated groups visit the space each week for an hour and a half, generally working at two stations, which include LEGOs and circuitry.

“Last year it was just a library with a lot of books no one read,” Schweitzer, 11, said of the makerspace, which shares space with Lincoln’s information center.

Cameron Sackett, who was working with green screen, said he liked being able to create things, like geography projects.

“You can do almost everything you want,” said Sackett, 11.

Leider, who teaches sixth-grade science and social studies, said donations – like hot glue, egg cartons and milk jugs – have allowed for the geography projects.

“Kids have been creating amazing things with the materials, which go quickly,” she said, noting each student carefully plans beforehand, to avoid waste.

The makerspace will be open to the community 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, where attendees can learn more about projects fifth- and sixth-graders are working on during the school day.

Transcription and note by Sharon R. Becker, October of 2016