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.

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National Coloring Book Day, celebrated annually on August 2nd, is more than just a day to bring out the crayons and colored pencils. It celebrates creativity and imagination, offering an excellent opportunity for students to express themselves artistically. This seemingly simple activity can profoundly impact cognitive and emotional development, fostering a rich environment for creative growth.

Coloring books are about more than just filling spaces with color. They provide a structured yet flexible framework where students can explore various hues and shades, enhancing their understanding of color theory and improving their fine motor skills. This creative expression also serves as a stress reliever, allowing students to focus on the present moment and engage in a calming, meditative activity.

Coloring encourages decision-making and problem-solving. Students must choose which colors to use and determine how to apply them, which fosters critical thinking and artistic skills. These decisions, though small, are crucial steps in the creative process, helping to build confidence and independence in young minds.

Innovation Labs® by Inventionland Education: Fostering Extreme Creativity

While National Coloring Book Day provides a burst of creative activity, sustaining this creativity throughout the year requires a dedicated environment. This is where Innovation Labs® by Inventionland Education comes into play. Designed to inspire and cultivate creativity, these labs provide students with a unique and immersive educational experience.

Innovation Labs® are more than just classrooms; they are dynamic spaces that use color theory to encourage creativity and exploration.   

In these amazing environments, students can brainstorm, design, and create their projects, transforming their ideas into tangible outcomes. This hands-on approach to learning helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, making education a more engaging and impactful experience.

One of Innovation Labs®’ core principles is promoting a mindset of ‘thinking outside the box.’ These labs nurture creative problem-solving skills by encouraging students to look beyond traditional solutions and explore alternative approaches. This environment supports artistic endeavors and fosters innovation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

In addition, the collaborative atmosphere within Innovation Labs® is instrumental in cultivating creativity. Students work together on projects, sharing ideas and learning from each other. This teamwork enhances communication skills and exposes students to diverse perspectives, further enriching their creative experience.

Moreover, Innovation Labs® integrates real-world challenges into the curriculum, allowing students to apply their creativity to solve practical problems. This real-world application of creative skills helps students see the relevance of their education and prepares them for future careers where innovation is critical.

National Coloring Book Day and Innovation Labs® by Inventionland Education play significant roles in cultivating creativity among students. While the former provides an accessible and enjoyable means of artistic expression, the latter offers a comprehensive and immersive environment that nurtures creative thinking and innovation year-round. Together, they ensure that students not only develop their creative skills but also learn to apply them in meaningful and impactful ways.

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