Stacy Hansen

Hansen’s innovative teaching idea, “Curious Minds MAKE It,” is focused on creating a “Makerspace” in her school where students between kindergarten through fifth grade are provided with an opportunity to tinker, explore and create through hands-on learning. She believes it is important for students to discover answers on their own, and to be encouraged to be curious and innovative in their daily lives. With Voya’s grant, Hansen will be able to purchase a variety of materials for students to use and explore with during school, including circuit boards and repurposed items like cardboard. She says that students will be given the opportunity to explore, build, ask questions and investigate how things work and operate. They will also be empowered to have a choice in what they learn and how they share it with others.