The Hoban Innovation Center, a new space for students to create, communicate and experiment, is on track to be fully functional by Oct. 1, replacing the school library. The newly renovated space trades paperback books for two high-tech learning areas: a Makerspace and a Distance Learning Studio, separated by a walk-through glass corridor.

Focussing on Science, Technology, English, Art and Math (STEAM), the Makerspace will be occupied with 3D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, graphic design software, di-sublimation printers and circuit and coding equipment for students to create and experiment with. Power tools and building materials such as plastic, metal, paint, etc., will be available for students to invent and create prototypes when experimenting with robotics. Senior Jared Armsey is looking forward to the opening of the Makerspace.

“I’m personally excited, because I want to pursue a career in engineering, so any advantage I can gain in high school is a great privilege and excites me for the future,” Armsey said.

This lab side of the innovation center will create a hands-on experience that will simulate what students read about in textbooks. It creates a new level of learning that is expected to be utilized by science, art and math classes.

The Distance Learning Studio will engage and test creativity and critical thinking skills. Students will be able to link with professionals from all around the world in all fields with the technology donated by Cisco Systems Inc. Videoconferencing will be available for students and teachers to speak face-to-face with experts and receive instruction and information. In addition to this, business and entrepreneurial opportunities will be available. This side of the center is especially focussed toward business studies. It is expected to be used by foreign language, science and history classes.

Dr. Todd Sweda, one of the center’s biggest advocates, anticipates an abundance of learning and creating that he believes will take place in the center. He believes that the center will encourage persistence in the students’ efforts.

“It’s an opportunity for students to begin testing their creative limits,” Sweda said.

Teachers will be able to sign up for time in the innovation center during their classes. After getting to know the materials and resources in the center, they will better be able to design lessons centered around the new elements of the center. Hoban’s more modern direction and advancement toward a more interactive learning experience follows a new trend toward makerspaces.

As for the old library, paperback books will no longer be available to check out, papers are no longer going to be to be printed, and there will no longer be a lounge area for students to relax or study before school, after school or during lunch. The library will be missed by senior Emma Izo, and many other students.

“I miss the library. It was my place to go to get my work done and relax without a lot of distractions,” Izo said.

Foley Commons, as well as a few designated classrooms, will be available before and after school for anyone to gather. Students will be able to print in Mr. Tocchi’s room before or after school only.

Although the plans have not yet been confirmed, a possible future project for Hoban according to Sweda may be updating the cafeteria into a student union. This would be a place for students to spend time together, catch up on homework, or pass time before practice.