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Moline Elementary launches Fab Lab after $25,000 grant and district match
Summary
Mosinee School District trustees heard an update on a new elementary Fab Lab at Moline Elementary, funded by a $25,000 grant plus a $12,500 district match, that will provide 3-D printing, cardboard routing, circuitry kits and community-use plans.
Mosinee School District trustees on Jan. 20 heard a presentation on a new Fab Lab at Moline Elementary, funded by a $25,000 grant and a $12,500 district match, that district staff say will bring hands-on design and engineering tools into elementary classrooms.
The Fab Lab team described tools already purchased and the next steps for teacher training and community involvement. "We're really excited to share, kind of where we've come and where we're headed with our elementary school Fab Lab," said Derek, a presenter with the project team. "We were awarded a grant, and... we are moving full force, and great things are happening."
The presentation outlined equipment intended for classroom and mobile use: a cardboard router for model making, classroom and handheld 3-D printers, snap-circuit kits for early learners, two mobile carts for classroom checkout, a weather station, Cricut cutting tools, two laser cutters, a sublimation mug printer and rotary engraving tools. Lori Hodgson said teachers will train on the equipment during in-service days so lessons can be integrated across library, art, STEM and classroom time.
The team emphasized curriculum ties and safety. "Starting with safety and proper use of the equipment right away... we're going to start having them put on [safety goggles] right away and just get used to it," Hodgson said. Staff described current lessons that pair 2-D computer design with 3-D printing, and classroom activities that teach circuitry and renewable-energy concepts using the new tools.
Presenters said the district plans mobile carts so teachers can bring equipment into classrooms and to host summer offerings. "Part of that great thing is to get this kind of up and running and trying it out during summer school," Derek said, adding the team is discussing wraparound care with local daycare partners to support summer or alternate-day programming.
The team also said they have consulted with area schools and a STEAM network to decide which tools to buy and how to run the lab; visiting teams will view the space in April. Board members applauded the cross-grade collaboration and community-use potential.
The district did not take a formal vote on the report; presenters said next steps include teacher training, creating a K–12 STEAM alignment, and scheduling community access and summer programming.
