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"Makerspaces" and "fab spaces" are nothing new in schools. For many years we called them laboratories and workshops.
They were expensive then and the cost just keeps going up. Outfitting a laboratory with high-tech microscopes that last until they are damaged is one thing. Constantly upgrading computer hardware and software because the old models are outmoded can be even more costly.
Ohio County Board of Education members need to keep that in mind after hearing a presentation last week. It was in regard to the massive $76 million repair and improvement project at county schools.
Part of the plan is to create "makerspaces" and "fab spaces" at schools. Much of the media center at Wheeling Park High School is to be converted for such use. Consideration is being given to installing such areas at elementary and middle schools.
It was explained to board members that "makerspaces" and "fab spaces" will be equipped with high-tech devices and supplies to help teach problem-solving skills and inspire creativity among students.
JoJo Shay, the school district's innovation coordinator, said the new areas will provide "high-ticket items" such as three-dimensional printers and laser cutters. Among activities envisioned are work in robotics and software coding.
Shay added that less exotic equipment such as hand tools and sewing machines also will be provided in the spaces.
Regardless of what one calls the areas, they are a good idea. Ohio County students deserve to have the same opportunities already enjoyed by many of their peers elsewhere.
But keeping some of the "makerspace" equipment and material up to date will be expensive. If it is not regularly evaluated and upgraded, it will lose its value.
Ohio County school officials already set aside some money for technological innovation. That is a good foundation for ensuring that, long after the $76 million improvement project is completed, funding is available to keep the "makerspaces" and "fab spaces" valuable to students. Such a fund needs to be built into the school system's annual budget -- and funded at a realistic level every year.