Anderson Preparatory Academy

K-12 Charter School • Anderson, Indiana

Learning Goals: Create a place dedicated to STEM and PBL at each grade band for Anderson Preparatory Academy

Highlighted Products: Magnetic Maker Table Bundle, 100 W. Laser Cutter Bundle, MapleWoodShop Program, Spin Soft Seating

Anderson Preparatory Academy (APA) is a project-based learning (PBL) charter school located in Anderson, Indiana. APA began working with 1st Maker Space to bring hands-on learning life and was interested in using the STEM Grant from the Indiana Department of Education for the funding needed to begin the project. In 2018, APA received the STEM Grant from the IDOE based on the leadership and vision of Curriculum Director Jessica Hornocker. APA introduced making at the elementary level, followed by the middle and high school level, creating three makerspaces that appeal to the age level for which they were designed. The elementary makerspace has a mix of Mobile Maker Tables and whiteboard HON Snap tables, which allow for either fabrication or ideation (or a mix of both).

APA is implementing the makerspace by designating it as a drop-in lab space for all educators. Each makerspace has a maker manager that completed the 1MS Maker Manger Program in 2020. APA also partnered with Magnify Learning to bring PBL to every classroom. APA is continuing to create new community partnerships now that the makerspace is in place, and is looking forward to hosting Maker Community Nights in the near future.