Looking to re-engage your students for school year 2020-2021 and beyond?
Supercharge Hands-on Learning at Your School With Bitspace Programs!
We're your one-stop shop for all things MAKER ED, from makerspace-building to integrating maker-focused programs into your curriculum (both virtual and in-person programs available).
We've been featured on:
The Challenge of Bringing Joy Back Into Learning After 2020
After what feels like the longest school year (ever), both students and teachers are left emotionally tapped out.
Parents are now looking for ways to restore their kids' enthusiasm for learning while teachers could use a morale boost from seeing highly engaged students once again!
Enter — more FUN hands-on learning opportunities that empower students with 21st century skills!
That's where we can help.
Here's How We've Supported Schools
1. Makerspace-Building
Starting a makerspace from scratch? We've helped schools in Chicago transform underutilized spaces into maker labs that maximize learning and grow with their students' needs.
❝The BitSpace team created a makerlab that is beyond our wildest expectations. They anticipated elements we would never have foreseen. Today our lab is by far the most sought after space in the building.❞
Katie Lechowski
Technology Teacher, Chicago
2. Professional Development Courses for Teachers
We've developed courses that help teachers deliver maker-focused programs with MINIMAL prep while earning professional development credits.
❝I have taught a ton of after school classes in my career and Bitspace Wearables class is a dream come true - seriously. I am Team Bitspace all the way! Please do keep me posted on what is coming up. I would like to stay involved and keep teaching these classes in our Makerspace.❞
Karen R.
Technology Innovation Specialist & Maker Mentor
3. Maker Ed Curriculum
If you already have a makerspace, we'll supply you with PLENTY of supplemental maker education resources from our online maker curriculum!
Our guides have helped schools like Chicago Lab integrate every subject into their makerspace.
Bringing You 6+ Years of Maker Education Expertise
We're not just makerspace-builders, we're a team of architects, artists, designers, and engineers turned maker educators. Meet two of our experts who will be working closely with you:
Kevin Smith
Our architect (who is also BitSpace's VP and Creative Director) is in the trenches of maker education EVERY DAY, leading and designing programs with students at BitSpace's innovation lab.
He's one of the most experienced makerspace experts in Chicago having built nearly 15 of these in the city — for both private schools like Chicago Lab and public schools like Lakeview High School.
Samantha Gleisten
Sam, our Director of Learner Experience Design, supports teachers through training and Professional Development in the field of maker education.
She's an Unsung Heroes awardee, recognized by Voya for her work on implementing a problem solving curriculum in the classroom and is currently Head Teacher at Rogers Park Elementary in Chicago.
We're here to support you, no matter where you are in your maker ed journey
Schools have come to us with varying needs. We'd love to book a time to chat with you so we can get a better understanding of what your goals are.