Collab Lab 16: Up-cycling for Makerspaces/Fab Labs

What if firms and organizations that have excess material could get it to schools that could use it?

In our Collab Labs focused on makerspaces last year, the cost of materials for student projects was consistently raised as a barrier. Last spring, in partnership with the makers from the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, we sponsored an entrepreneurial challenge through The Commons to look for an up-cycling model that could work for Milwaukee area schools. We’ve busy since then, validating assumptions and trying things out at a small scale. Now it’s time to beat up the idea some more.

We’ll take you through what we’ve been up to, what we think a model might look like, and look for your input and ideas that can get us to a model that works for you. One that:

• Expands the volume of material available to schools
• Strengthens connections between schools and local firms
• Simplifies the donation process for firms
• Creates new opportunities for authentic learning experiences for students

Come share ideas with your colleagues at public, private, and charter schools from across greater Milwaukee, as well as some folks outside of K12 who have a role to play.

Agenda

5:30 – 6:00 Grab something to eat and drink, say hello
6:00 – 8:30 Let’s figure out how to make this work!

Food and beverage will be provided. There is no charge for participation but space is limited!

The Collab Lab will be held in the innovation space at Ward 4. Space provided courtesy of The Commons.