A collaborative work area opened this year at an elementary school in the Northern Lehigh School District.

In partnership with the district, Lehigh Carbon Community College’s SHINE program dedicated the new Makerspace at Slatington Elementary School.

It encourages making, exploring, learning and sharing that uses high-tech or no-tech schools.

During the school day, the district uses the space with its own STEAM curriculum, which emphasizes hands-on learning.

In the afternoon and evenings, Schools and Homes in Education uses it for project-based STEM activities as part of the after-school program.

Students have access to a 3D printer, laser cutter, CNC machines, soldering irons and other equipment that’s used in a variety of projects.

The program served about 30 children during Summer Camp, and about 50 children after school during the school year for four days a week for 36 weeks.

LCCC also has Makerspaces at the LCCC Tamaqua site in the Morgan Center, and in the main campus in Science Hall.