Making a Makerspace

I am interested in starting a Makerspace and am working on formulating a plan.
I want students to be able to explore and investigate different kinds of tools and materials, both physical and virtual design and test their own ideas and solve problems pursue their own interests create (not just consume) engage in STEAM education. I want to give students these opportunities to be creative and use problem solving skills in a hand-on way. They don’t often have these opportunities in the classroom because of our focus on testing and scores. I would like to help teachers find ways to incorporate maker activities into their curriculum.

My budget currently consists of what I can get through grants and/or sites like DonorsChoose. I just submitted a DonorsChoose project for a LittleBits kit as well as some K’Nex. I also applied for a grant for Lego WeDos from my state technology educators’ association (ICE). I currently do not have any money “in the bank” to begin the Maker Space, and my library budget was lowered this year. However, we do already have 5 sets of Makey Makeys and the Squishy Circuit kits, although would need more LEDs for that. I can ask my PTO for additional funding but they are funding our 1:1 iPad mini program (we started with 3rd last year and now are moving up to 3rd and 4th) and that is their main focus.

I would like to focus on both technology and hands-on building.

I would like to give students some design challenges to figure out. This could be things like building a parachute out of certain supplies, lifting a brick off the ground with just paper, etc. My audience is our K-5 students and our staff! I would love to incorporate some books with a maker challenge (such as Rosie Revere Engineer).

Questions I have:

• Where should the space be? The former computer lab next to the library is ideal although there is a tech person that may not be happy about us encroaching on her space. We also have one empty classroom upstairs near 5th grade, which would be more accessible to 4th and 5th grades. 
• When should they use the space? I would like teachers to take their classes in anytime, but I’m wondering if it might make sense to start with activities during their library time. 
• What is my role and the teachers’ role? 
• How can I inform and convince the teachers, principal and families about the need for a Maker Space? 
• How does this fit in the curriculum? 
• How will we organize and set up the space? 
• What should be my first priority to try to buy? 

What about you? Do you have a Makerspace? Would you like to start one?I would love to join others on their journey!