M-DCPS Unveils Innovation Space at W.R. Thomas Middle School

M-DCPS Unveils Innovation Space at W.R. Thomas Middle School

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) unveiled a redesigned, technology-rich Innovation Space at W.R. Thomas Middle School's media center. The new space includes a "Jump 'n Learn" Active Floor, a Makerspace area with robotics for hands-on learning, and new furniture in an open area where students can engage in creative group activities.

"By creating such a positive space, such an innovative space, it allows our students to be all that they can be," said M-DCPS Deputy Superintendent Michael Lewis.

The Active Floor "Jump 'n Learn" is designed for students to play virtual soccer, race cars, and many other games, but they can also take interactive quizzes that align with the math and science curriculum. The Makerspace area includes robotics, as well as arts and crafts, and other hands-on technology.

"This has totally transformed the media center into a very innovative, comfortable space for kids, challenging their curiosity," said W.R. Thomas Principal Giovanna M. Handal. "For readers there is the reading corner with bean bag chairs. For those who are creative and like to build we have the building tools and for those who can't sit still we have the active floor."

Students at W.R. Thomas Middle School playing on the "Jump 'n Learn" Active Floor.<_o3a_p>

The media center redesign also includes modular, comfortable furniture to accommodate a variety of uses with six high-top tables to accommodate the media center's six desktop computers. There are also three tables with bins on the side full of building tools for creative play.

"I think this innovation space is a very creative space and that a lot of students will benefit from it, socially and creatively," said eighth-grader Alexandria Pacheco. "I think it really gets your mind going on how to do things and it just makes class more interesting."

Over the next year, a total of 18 M-DCPS middle school media centers will have been redesigned to meet the unique social, emotional, and academic needs of students and teachers. The project was funded by a $2 million partnership between M-DCPS, the College Football Playoff Foundation, and the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship Game Host Committee.

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TOP CAPTION: W.R. Thomas Middle School students using new creative building tools at the school's new Innovation Space.

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