With the support of a generous grant from the Picerne Family Foundation, students at Gary and Jerri-Ann Jacobs High Tech High are rolling up their sleeves, diving into hands-on projects, and gaining access to cutting-edge tools and materials that bring real-world learning to life. This investment is not only transforming classrooms but also equipping educators with the resources and training to take project-based learning to the next level.

Bringing Food Systems to Life in the Classroom

One of the primary goals of this grant was to provide students with a deeper understanding of food systems—from production to consumption—while integrating cutting-edge design and fabrication processes. With the grant’s support, High Tech High supplemented equipment and materials in our shop spaces, enabling students to engage in the hands-on components of their projects with greater depth and efficiency.

This investment in our workshops has transformed student learning experiences. By using tools and processes aligned with industry standards, students are not only learning about food systems but also developing practical skills in engineering, design, and problem-solving. Student reflections on this initiative indicate overwhelmingly positive outcomes, underscoring the value of hands-on education in reinforcing complex concepts.

The Maker’s Toolbox: A New Resource for Educators

Another exciting component of the grant’s implementation is the Maker’s Toolbox—a resource designed to support

teachers in bringing hands-on ‘making’ into their classrooms. The vision behind the toolbox is to provide educators with ready-to-use materials and a structured professional development (PD) program to help them integrate fabrication and design into their curriculum.

Over the past few months, the High Tech High team has:

• Designed and begun constructing the Maker’s Toolbox, which will be ready for use later this spring.
• Developed a PD protocol to train teachers on how to effectively use the toolbox in their classrooms.
• Started recruiting teachers to pilot this new resource in preparation for next year’s projects.
• The response from educators and administrators has been incredibly enthusiastic, highlighting a strong demand for hands-on learning resources that align with our project-based model.

Looking Ahead

With the continued support of the Picerne Family Foundation, High Tech High is on track to broaden access to innovative, hands-on learning opportunities for both students and teachers. The impact of this initiative is already evident in the engagement and growth of our students, and as we roll out the Maker’s Toolbox and accompanying professional development.

–Courtesy of teachers Pat Holder and John Santos