Middle School Makerspace
Where Curiosity Gets Built.
Makerspace
Funded by the CEF, the CPS After-School Makerspace Program is an innovative, choice-based initiative centered on student interests and individual creativity. Our mission is to provide a dedicated environment where students hone their craft in industrial technologies—including woodworking, robotics, engineering, fiber arts, ceramics, and leatherworking.
We strive to cultivate hands-on expertise while empowering students to envision, design, and execute projects they are passionate about. By encouraging students to take full creative control, we foster an environment of inquiry that develops essential STEAM habits of mind.
Current Middle School Program - Fall 2026
How to register
Complete the Makerspace Google Form.
Fiber Lab:
Beginner and Intermediate Crochet
Mondays: Nov 16, 23, 30, Dec 7, 14, 21
3 pm - 5pm
Teachers: Jamie Lynn Hart/Amy Brodeur
CPS Makerspace: Engineering Room
Grades 5 - 8
Max Enrollment: 12
Course Fee: $180
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All Skill Levels Welcome:
Tailored for complete beginners learning the fundamentals as well as intermediate crafters seeking troubleshooting and skill-building mentorship.
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Core Technique Instruction:
Covers essential mechanics, including proper hook hold, chain stitching, single and double crochet, and working in the round.
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Hands-On Projects:
Create finished pieces such as a hat or headband, potholder, granny square pouch, and a small stuffy.
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Open Studio Time:
Dedicate class time to pursuing personal, independent projects with supportive, expert guidance.
Ceramics:
Hand Building with Clay
Tuesdays: Nov 17, 24, Dec 1, 8, 15, 22.
3 pm - 5pm
Teachers: Elena Bertolino/Amy Brodeur
CPS Makerspace: Engineering Room
Grades 5 - 8
Max Enrollment: 12
Course Fee: $180
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Core Handbuilding Techniques:
Learn and refine foundational clay methods, including pinch, coil, and slab construction, along with proper attachment processes.
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Creative Exploration:
Experiment with texture, form, and design to sculpt unique, handmade pieces.
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All Experience Levels Welcome:
Perfect for beginners and intermediate artists alike—no prior clay experience required, just imagination and a willingness to get messy.
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CPS Faculty Instructors:
Co-taught by Elena Bertolino (Speech Language Pathologist) and Amy Brodeur (Occupational Therapist).
Leatherworking
Monday Nov 2 & Tuesday Nov 3
3 pm - 5pm
Teachers: Will Parra/Amy Brodeur
Grades 5 - 8
CPS Makerspace: Engineering Room
Max Enrollment: 12
Course Fee: $75
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Traditional Leathercraft:
Learn time-honored techniques—including cutting, gluing, and hand-stitching—to craft a custom, over-the-shoulder pouch built to last a lifetime.
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Heritage Materials:
Work with deer hides from Pergamena, a historic family-run New York tannery operating for over 500 years, using locally sourced hides and ancient tanning methods.
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Time-Tested Techniques:
Practice centuries-old artisan skills preserved and passed down through generations of craftspeople.
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Professional Instruction:
Led by a Carlisle Public Schools alum with seven years of experience as a professional leather artisan.
Woodworking:
Beginner and Intermediate
Wednesdays: Oct 28, Nov 4, 18,
Dec 2, 9, 16
3 pm - 5pm
Teachers: Peter Yutakis/Amy Brodeur
CPS Makerspace: Engineering Room
Grades 5 - 8
Max Enrollment: 8
Course Fee: $180
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Tool Safety & Fundamentals:
Learn and practice foundational woodworking skills using traditional hand tools, with a strong focus on correct technique and safety.
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Skill-Building Starter Project:
Master the basics through hands-on practice by building a marble maze or other foundational project.
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Independent Invention:
Apply newly acquired skills to dream up, design, and construct an original wood project of your own.
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Supportive Instruction:
Led with patience and humor by instructor Peter Yakutis, alongside assistant teacher and CPS Occupational Therapist / Makerspace Liaison Amy Brodeur.
Register through the STEAM brochure on ParentSquare.
Current Program for Elementary Grades - Fall 2026
Below programs are offered to elementary grade students.
(Grade 1 to 5)
How to register
Register through the STEAM brochure on ParentSquare.
Creating Art with Natural Materials
Mondays: Oct 19 to 11/9 (4 weeks)
3 pm - 4:30pm
Teachers: Emily Barrow/Amy Brodeur
CPS Makerspace: Meet in the Engineering Room, but plan on being outdoors!
Grades 1 - 4
Course Fee: $130
Students will closely observe nature, using it as both a source of inspiration and a bountiful resource for raw material! Learn new ways to make familiar art supplies as we make our own paper and paints from potentially unexpected sources that could be found across Carlisle; build three-dimensional art with techniques that have been used for centuries and are still used today. What could we build together if we knew more about the magic all around us? Let's find out!
Nature Observation:
Watercolor & Scientific Illustration
Tuesdays: Oct 13 to Nov 3 (4 weeks)
3 pm - 5pm
Teachers: Elena Bertolino/Amy Brodeur
CPS Makerspace: Meet in the Engineering Room, but plan on being outdoors!
Grades 1 - 4
Course Fee: $150
Art and science meld in a STEAM course dedicated to outdoor observation. Learn watercolor and illustration techniques to document the natural world of Carlisle. Enjoy the sights of fall through nature walks and create plein air paintings (paintings in the open air) of what inspires YOU! Taught by Elena Bertolino, CPS's own Speech Language Pathologist and Amy Brodeur, CPS's own Occupational Therapist.
CPS Parent
“My child is taking woodworking and has come home so enthusiastic about the course. Thanks for bringing this to CPS!"
CPS Parent
"It has provided an outlet for my child to relax and let their creativity and messiness flow.."
CPS Parent
“The teacher allowed them to explore more things than a standard curriculum. It was really fun as a result. ”
Makerspace Photo Gallery
