Program Partners: Incline Elementary School PTA, Nevada Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation & Technology, Britney Bladel State Farm Insurance, Tahoe Lending Group, Hyatt Incline, AAUW Tahoe Nevada, Rotary Club of Incline Village and Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline
Over the past four years, the Incline Elementary School Makerspace has evolved into a dynamic, hands-on learning environment where students develop critical 21st-century skills. What began as a space for tinkering and exploration has transformed into an integral part of our STEM curriculum, fostering collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation.
One of the most significant shifts has been in how students embrace the engineering design process. They are learning that failure is not an endpoint but a steppingstone to success. By testing ideas, analyzing results, and iterating on their designs, Incline students develop perseverance, resilience, and a growth mindset—skills that extend far beyond the Makerspace.
Students are becoming proficient in block coding, a foundational skill that introduces them to computational thinking in an engaging way. Through a structured progression of robotics challenges, by using tools like Bee Bots, Ozobots, Lego Spike Prime and Sphero, students deepen their understanding of programming while strengthening their ability to think critically and work as a team. This extension of classroom learning, reinforces concepts across subject areas.
The Incline Elementary School Makerspace is more than just a classroom—it’s a launchpad for creativity, exploration, and future careers in STEM. With continued support from IEF, the program is expanding its technology and tools to ensure students have hands-on access to the latest innovations in science, engineering, and design.
Students can also fuel their competitive spirit through the Robotics Club, where they team up to take on regional FIRST LEGO League challenges.
By the time they leave elementary school, these young learners aren’t just equipped with technical know-how—they carry with them the confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving skills to take on the world. This program is laying the foundation for the next generation of engineers, innovators, and changemakers.
“IEF made the MakerSpace project come to life. Now, we have a full suite of exciting new tools. The kids absolutely love it and are learning critical thinking skills at an early age that will help prepare them for middle and high school classes.”
Trina Kleinhenz, Makerspace Teacher Incline Elementary School
