The MFSC Maker Educator Cohort has been meeting throughout the school year and recently had an opportunity to visit Master Maker Educator Lou Lahana at the Makerspace at PS 188. Dr. Lahana has been teaching Maker Education for 17 years at PS 188. His work has slowly, and organically grown into the rich, robust program that it is today. Also known as The Techbrarian, Lou uses his Web site, The Tech Cafe, as a platform to teach students about social issues that they then design a solution for with something they can make in the Makerspace. Examples of projects include making blankets for the homeless or blessing bags.

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Lou’s space contains many tools but one of his favorites is his Cricut, which he uses to cut out stencils or cut out vinyl that, using a tshirt press, you can make tshirts with a message. The Cohort was very excited to see the Cricut in action. We then got a quick lesson on how to make jewelry by designing metal pendants and doing leather work.

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When looking at Lou’s Makerspace you can see a potential that was realized through creative curiosity and exploration. Come talk with Lou about Making at the Maker Ed Forum on May 19th.