Blog

The start of a new school year in Calumet City, IL, brought with it something really special: the unveiling of Lincoln Elementary School District 156’s brand-new Innovation Center. This reimagined space, designed in partnership with Inventionland Education, was officially introduced to the community during a back-to-school evening that featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and back-to-school night. Students, parents, teachers, and community members were invited to explore the dynamic learning environment, and the excitement in the air was undeniable.

A Space Designed for Innovation, STEAM, and Project-based Learning

The Innovation Center features a multi-purpose room equipped with dry-erase light panels, maker machines, and collaborative seating areas. In addition, a dedicated green screen video production and editing room provides students with hands-on opportunities to explore modern technology and creative expression. What makes this transformation even more remarkable is that the setting, a 100-year-old district office building, has been completely reinvented into a vibrant hub for exploration and discovery.

Dr. Anitia Rice, Superintendent of Lincoln Elementary School District 156, emphasized the vision behind the project: “We want our young learners to experience STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) in a stimulating, non-traditional environment. We also want to introduce our students to early career exploration, so that they can grow up in a world of possibilities.” This vision reflects the district’s commitment to providing its PreK through 5th-grade students with hands-on, project-based learning that goes far beyond the traditional classroom.

Community Excitement and Student Engagement

As attendees walked through the newly unveiled space, a sense of wonder filled the air. Parents expressed enthusiasm for the opportunities their children would now have, while students eagerly imagined the projects and possibilities that awaited them. Teachers and staff also shared in the excitement, recognizing how the Innovation Center would open new doors for interactive and engaging learning.

The collaborative effort between administrators, school board members, and educators was key to bringing this vision to life. By repurposing existing space, the district demonstrated both creativity and resourcefulness in achieving its goals.

Designed in Partnership with Inventionland Education

The Innovation Center was made possible through a partnership with Inventionland Education, a leader in creating imaginative, hands-on learning environments. Known for their award-winning Innovation Labs® and applied STEM curriculum, Inventionland Education has worked with schools across North America to reimagine traditional learning spaces. Their work is often featured in national publications and on the television show Tomorrow’s World Today, which airs on the Science and Discovery Channels.

“Education is changing, and student engagement is more important than ever,” said George Davison, Founder of Inventionland Education. “We’re inspired every day by the transformations we help facilitate, and working with the Lincoln Elementary School District 156 and their stakeholders was one of the highlights of our summer.”

Looking Ahead

The Innovation Center at Lincoln Elementary is more than just a new space. It represents a shift in how education can be delivered. With tools that foster creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving, students are being prepared not only for academic success but also for the future careers they may one day pursue.

For the community of Calumet City, this new Innovation Center is a symbol of progress, imagination, and possibility. As students step into this vibrant space, they are stepping into a world where innovation begins early, and the future is theirs to shape.