Scott Middle School in Hammond, Indiana, has become a hub of innovation and hands-on learning thanks to the success of its makerspace designed and created by 1st Maker Space. Serving grades 7 and 8, the school—home of the Scorpions—created a modern, engaging learning environment for students. As part of a district-wide initiative to achieve STEM certification, School City of Hammond partnered with 1st Maker Space to design and implement makerspaces in multiple middle and high schools. This project, funded through Title I, II, IV, and ESSER grants, included not only cutting-edge equipment like 3D printers, laser cutters, and maker tables but also comprehensive teacher training and curriculum support.
Before students stepped foot in the space, Scott Middle School staff completed immersive professional development sessions led by 1st Maker Space. These workshops prepared educators to integrate maker-based learning into their classrooms, building confidence in using new tools and teaching project-based STEM concepts. This foundation has been crucial to the makerspace’s success, allowing teachers to guide students through meaningful, hands-on projects that develop creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Under the leadership of makerspace instructor Nick Trottier, students have fully embraced the opportunities the space provides. Nick says, “The greatest benefit of having a makerspace at Scott Middle School is being able to let students’ imagination and creativity run wild. Many of our students thrive in hands-on learning experiences and they enjoy using technology. Combining these elements has allowed us to promote the “growth mindset” and a culture of problem-solving.” From robotics and coding to engineering design and 3D fabrication, learners are exploring new technologies and applying real-world thinking to their projects. The makerspace doesn’t just build technical skills—it inspires curiosity and equips students with future-ready abilities that connect directly to potential college and career pathways.
The initiative also advances Hammond’s broader vision of STEM education. By transforming traditional classrooms into vibrant, student-driven environments, Scott Middle School is helping the school move closer to official STEM certification. The makerspace encourages interdisciplinary learning, with applications across math, science, art, and language arts, making STEM education more accessible and engaging for every student. Mr. Trottier shared this about the project that has made the biggest impact, “My favorite project to do with the students has been the cardboard carnival. I’ve been involved with two different groups of students completing this project, and both times were huge successes. In this project, students researched carnival games–how they’ve changed over the years, how they can be rigged against the player, and how to create likeable gameplay–and then brainstormed with a small group, type of games they would like to create. Using cardboard, Makedo, Glowforge, Dremel 3D printers, and some other odds and ends in the Makerspace, groups developed functional cardboard carnival games using the engineering and design process. At the end of the week, we hosted a carnival day where we invited staff members to play the games (with tickets and prizes of course). I like this project because it is relatable to the students—almost all had played a game at the fair or an arcade before. Students were motivated by the idea that their game was going to be shared with others, and it made for a memorable experience both for the students and our staff.”
Looking ahead, the school plans to showcase student projects through community STEM events, continue integrating making into various subjects, and provide ongoing professional development for staff. Scott Middle School’s partnership with 1st Maker Space demonstrates the power of modern learning environments to spark innovation and empower the next generation of problem-solvers. The Scorpions are now making, designing, and thriving—one prototype at a time.
