New Makerspace Bus Brings High-Tech Learning Opportunities to Calcasieu Parish Schools

The Calcasieu Parish School Board is excited to announce the launch of their “Mobile Makerspace” bus, which brings the latest technology to students. This initiative provides a “makerspace” for students to explore and share high-tech tools, similar to the bookmobiles of old. At Oak Park Middle School, students are using iPads and coding language to program robots to take specific routes, finding it a fun and engaging way to learn.

The Mobile Makerspace bus is equipped with various technologies such as 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, all aimed at enhancing classroom learning through activities that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. Kim LeBlanc, the chief technology officer for the school board, emphasizes the importance of preparing students for future job markets by developing a diverse set of skills.

One activity on the bus involved programming drones to drop packages. Students learned how to control these drones to deliver Amazon packages while landing at specific targets. Another activity allowed students to explore augmented reality art with Ca’leaa Simien’s digital art on an iPad.

Teachers can now book the Mobile Makerspace bus for their students and provide them with a unique opportunity for hands-on learning without leaving the school grounds. This initiative showcases the school board’s commitment to integrating technology and innovation into education in order to prepare students for tomorrow’s challenges.