Inspired by a high school senior’s vision, the Middle School Market was established this semester to provide middle school students with their own version of the high school’s Laser Locker. Intern Jakob O., moved by the collaborative and creative spirit of middle schoolers, helped bring this concept to life within the library. This space has become a dynamic Makerspace where students engage in rotating, hands-on activities—prioritizing growth and experimentation over grades in a supportive, safe-to-fail environment.
Jake recognized the tremendous potential within the middle school’s Makerspace opportunities. Drawing on his Kettle Moraine High School coursework in Marketing, Psychology, Industrial Technology, and Graphic Design, he set out to inspire students to be part of something bigger than themselves. Eighth-grader Alice H. was the first to step forward, quickly emerging as a natural leader with innovative ideas and a willingness to learn new processes while designing and producing products.
As Jake and Alice worked through trial and error to refine the core inventory, they found the perfect mobile cart to house the micro-business. Partnering with the middle school Library Instructional Specialist, they approached Mr. Kitzerow for support in purchasing the cart—an idea he supported without hesitation.
Momentum grew when Mrs. Schlueter and Miss Arts’ 7th-grade students showcased their Literacy Book Club projects that connected to their Social Studies curriculum. In partnership with the library, students used Makerspace activities to demonstrate their learning. The experience sparked excitement, and many students asked to join the growing school store team. As interest expanded, Jake and Alice recognized the need for clearly defined roles and responsibilities—marking the beginning of their Design-to-Sales operations.
