MakerSpace and the Arts
Where Ideas Take Shape
The Wye River Upper School Middendorf Makerspace opened its doors in 2019, thanks to funding provided by The Middendorf Foundation and the Gracye B. Kerr Fund, Inc. Located adjacent to the school's main campus, the 1000-square-foot renovated facility houses a range of low-and high-tech tools that inspire our students' design and production skills
Centered around project-based learning and real-world problem solving, the Makerspace also fosters the 4 C’s: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication, values that Wye River Upper School promotes throughout its curriculum with dedication. Access to the Makerspace is through dedicated classes and cross-curricular planning with all WRUS content teachers, with measurable student outcomes that are embedded and monitored throughout a yearly instruction plan.
Theater provides another opportunity for students to create, collaborate, and express themselves through hands-on learning. From performing and storytelling to set design, lighting, and production, students can explore different aspects of the theatrical process while building confidence, communication, and teamwork skills. Through theater and the performing arts, students are encouraged to take creative risks, discover their strengths, and bring their ideas to life. Fine arts provide additional opportunities to explore drawing, pottery and kiln work, community art, and three-dimensional art while experimenting with different materials and techniques.
CREATIVE & EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
AT WYE RIVER UPPER SCHOOL
Making & Fabrication
Students take an idea from concept to completion, setting goals, organizing materials, managing their time, and working through challenges as they build.
Arts & Design
Students use iPads and Adobe creative tools to pursue projects that reflect their interests, experimenting with design, digital art, photography, and visual storytelling.
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Theater
Students bring stories to life through one to two theater productions each year, exploring acting, production, and the many creative roles behind the scenes.
How do students use and access the MakerSpace?
The Middendorf Makerspace is located in a dedicated 1,000-square-foot facility just steps from the main school building. Students walk independently to the Makerspace for dedicated classes and cross-curricular projects, where they have access to specialized tools, technology, and hands-on learning experiences.
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How long do students have to complete Makerspace projects?
Every project is different, so there is no set timeline for completing Makerspace work. Students are given the time they need to thoughtfully develop, test, and complete their projects, allowing the focus to remain on the learning and process rather than simply finishing by a deadline.
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What other creative and elective opportunities are available to students?
The Makerspace is one part of Wye River Upper Schools broader offering of creative and hands-on learning opportunities. Students can explore electives such as photography and fine arts, with access to specialized resources and materials, including a kiln and beadwork supplies, to support a range of creative projects and interests.
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