Hubbard Elementary School in Kuna, Idaho, is buzzing with excitement as they unveil their new state-of-the-art Robotics Explorer LEGO Lab. Thanks to a grant from Meta and collaboration with Idaho First Robotics, administrators at Hubbard Elementary transformed two classrooms into an innovative learning environment that aims to spark an early interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

Recognizing the importance of introducing STEM concepts to young minds, Hubbard Elementary Librarian Lisa Gamboa explains, “Our kids range from kindergarten to third grade, so it’s crucial to ignite an early curiosity in STEM fields. After all, that’s where the future lies.”

The idea for the lab originated from Gamboa’s research on enhancing elementary school libraries. She discovered that digital literacy was becoming a prevalent topic among librarians, alongside traditional reading literacy. This realization led her to bridge the gap between the library and STEM education. Gamboa shares, “STEM is a different kind of literacy. The ability to code and engage in these activities is vital for the next generation. It started as a small corner and blossomed into this incredible lab.”

The Robotics Explorer LEGO Lab is accessible to all students and is fully equipped with robotics kits, as well as a wide array of STEM and LEGO resources. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences that enhance their coding skills, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative spirit.

This new LEGO maker lab will not only host the LEGO Explore Club but will also serve as a dedicated space for STEM classes. Over 200 students will benefit from these educational programs, gaining valuable knowledge and skills that will shape their future endeavors.

With the Robotics Explorer LEGO Lab, Hubbard Elementary School is paving the way for a new generation of innovators and problem solvers. By nurturing a passion for STEM at an early age, they are empowering students to embrace the possibilities of the future.

FAQs

1. What is STEM?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It encompasses a range of disciplines and fields connected to scientific processes, technological advancements, engineering principles, and mathematical concepts.

2. How does the Robotics Explorer LEGO Lab benefit students?

The Robotics Explorer LEGO Lab provides students with hands-on learning experiences that enhance their coding skills, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration. It sparks early interest in STEM and equips students with valuable skills for future success.

3. Who made the Robotics Explorer LEGO Lab possible?

The Robotics Explorer LEGO Lab at Hubbard Elementary School was made possible by a grant from Meta and in collaboration with Idaho First Robotics.

4. How will the LEGO Maker Lab be utilized?

Apart from hosting the LEGO Explore Club, the LEGO Maker Lab will also be used for teaching STEM classes to over 200 students at Hubbard Elementary School.