Rowe Elementary School 5th Grade students will reach the culmination day of their “Robot Petting Zoo” project on Friday, November 7th according to a press release issued by the Portland Public Schools early this afternoon.

It will be the conclusion of a four-day lesson in which pairs of studens were tasked with using the engineering design process to build a creature that can move, make sounds and light up, seeming to come to life.

“Day 4 is an exciting day because students are attaching motors to their robots and parts like ears, wings, tails and more begin to move,” said Karen Shibles, Portland Public Schools Makerspace Coordinator.  “This project integrates all aspects of  STEAM — science, technology, engineering, art, and math.  It’s a high-tech project utilizing Chromebooks, micro:bits, along with lights, motors and more.”

Shibles runs PPS Mobile Makerspace, which serves elementary schools across the district by bringing hands-on STEAM experiences like the “Robot Petting Zoo” directly to students in grades Pre-K through 5.  The program offers a variety of activities, from low-risk creative challenges to advanced technology integration, that emphasize the engineering design process.

“Through these hands-on experiences,” Shibles said, “students develop essential 21st- century skills including cooperation, critical thinking, perserverance and creativity.  By bringing the Makerspace directly to each elementary school, we ensure equitable access to high-quality STEAM education and foster joyful learning for all students in our district.”