Hosting Organization: Wayne Hills High School
County: Passaic
Thanks to a generous grant from the New Jersey STEM Pathways Network, Wayne Hills High School transformed into a hub of creativity and innovation during its highly successful MakersWeek, held in celebration of NJ Makers Day.
Nearly 1,300 students and staff took part in the weeklong event, diving into hands-on activities that encouraged them to unplug, collaborate, and create. The only rule? Make something—no phones allowed.
In a refreshing change of pace, texting was swapped out for real conversations, and scrolling gave way to building, crafting, and designing. Students channeled their creativity into a wide range of activities, from solving puzzles and making Shrinky Dinks and bracelets to upcycling old shirts, jackets, and sweatpants into unique fashion pieces.
With over 15 interactive stations to explore, students discovered new hobbies, developed practical skills, and tapped into their imaginations. Activities included:
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Sublimation design and printing on t-shirts and mugs
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Sewing and clay modeling
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Lego building and Perler bead designs
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Mandala art projects
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Collage making and more
Whether designing a mug or creating a wearable art piece, there was truly something for everyone.
MakersWeek not only gave students the chance to explore creative expression—it also served as a launchpad for future innovation. By removing digital distractions and placing tools in students’ hands, the event emphasized the power of thinking outside the box and making ideas come to life.
We’re thrilled that this experience has ignited student interest in MakerSpaces and hands-on learning, and we look forward to continuing to foster creativity, curiosity, and collaboration at Wayne Hills for years to come.