South Side San Antonio has witnessed a transformation from the traditional classroom to a hands-on learning utopia, thanks to a collaboration with the DoSeum and a renovated Harlandale ISD campus. The once-special needs school now serves as a breeding ground for young creators in what is arguably one of the largest campus-based "makerspaces" in the region.
The DoSeum, renowned for its interactive exhibits, has brought its magic to the district, introducing technology and creativity in a tangible way, refreshing the concept of education. According to the San Antonio Report, Eugene Jimenez, a senior educator at the DoSeum, mentors students as they build drones, quipping that "failure is a first attempt in learning," amidst occasional tech-driven pandemonium.
Since its inception last October, the makerspace has expanded educational horizons, providing students from across the district with opportunities to engage not only in STEM activities but also in creative ventures such as esports, gardening, and culinary arts. The inclusive initiative has repurposed furniture and equipment from other closed campuses, offering a sustainable model for community engagement.
Meghan Guerrero, the district's CTE, STEM, and gifted and talented coordinator, told the San Antonio Report, “We’re still learning and growing and building, and prototyping.” Despite the challenges, the space has quickly become a hive of innovation where the mundane desks of yesterday meet the futuristic tech of tomorrow.
It's not just about flying drones; it's about drawing parallels to real-world scenarios. Taking a cue from recent aviation safety concerns, students tasked with transporting a Lego figurine across a gap reflected the relevant discussions making headlines such as issues with Boeing 737 MAX planes. As the kids brainstormed, they didn't just grapple with the mechanics of flight but also the responsibility that accompanies the act of sending objects skyward.
Dolores Madrid, a veteran teacher with a legacy of pioneering STEM on her local campus, is amazed at how opportunities have flourished since her early days bringing a robot onto campus. Her inventive use of technology in education over the years now finds a new home in this transformative space. "It’s a dream come true," Madrid reflected, as recounted by the San Antonio Report.
