We live in a world that changes rapidly and presents new challenges with no known solutions. We all saw this with the global pandemic. We were all thrust into a situation where we had to adjust our lives with no roadmap. It is certain that our students will face challenges in their future where no directions are provided. It is important for students to create, problem solve real world issues, code, design, question, research with discernment, and communicate in a variety of ways with skill. It is no longer enough for students to follow set instructions to achieve a specified goal. Rather, with the skills to critically think and the confidence in themselves, students are able to face and solve unpredicted challenges.
With the generous support from several Clairbourn families, the Liu-Peng Innovation Lab is now open. It was built during the summer and in order to redesign and modernize the space, we removed walls and posts creating a productive functional space. We also provided efficient HVAC and additional storage for the student tools and projects. We performed an electrical upgrade to ensure proper ventilation for new equipment. Finally, the exterior was modified to allow for direct access to the space. A ramp and new landscaping were added for the finishing touches! The Liu-Peng Innovation Lab, located in the Robert W. Nafie Building, contains robotics parts, tools, programing software, 3D printers, a laser cutter, Cricut machines, a vacuum former, workbenches, green screen abilities, and lots of supplies for creative problem solving!
Students practice a way of thinking and learning that is specifically designed for new challenges that need new solutions. The mindset where we embrace a process is called Design Thinking. The process is non-linear but takes the thinker through a process that includes empathizing, defining, ideating, prototyping, and testing. In this process each conversation gives us perspective, each trial helps to improve, each prototype gets us closer to a solution, each “failure” gives important information, and each bit of feedback is crucial. Our students are going to get specific practice at design thinking. They will learn to work together in new ways and to build on each other’s ideas. As we walk through the lab, we can’t help but feel excited for the countless opportunities our students will have to explore, grow and expand their problem solving mindset!
Special thank you to all our generous donors. Mr. Alex Liu and Ms. Angela Peng were our lead donors, providing over half of the funding needed for this project. Mr. Jun Lu, Mr. Oscar Duan and Ms. Kelly Ling, and Ms. Fiona Zhang all made significant contributions to fund the other half of the project. These generous donors all shared our vision of a new space to support student growth. They see the potential in investing in our students to support problem solving and creative thinking needed in our ever-changing world. We are very grateful for their support, leadership, and generosity extended to our students and our school. We have much to look forward to!
