The Essex Community School District is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to support our innovative MakerSpace program. Volunteers provide hands-on assistance, encouragement, and mentorship as students explore new skills, hobbies, trades, and creative interests.
At Essex Community School District, MakerSpace is more than a traditional makerspace—it is an opportunity for students to discover lifelong hobbies, trades, skills, and passions through authentic, hands-on learning experiences. MakerSpace meets one Friday each month from approximately 8:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Students participate in multi-age MakerSpace groups: ● Elementary: Grades K–5 ● Middle School: Grades 6–8 ● High School: Grades 9–12
Each MakerSpace connects classroom learning with real-world experiences while fostering creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Volunteers are encouraged to share a hobby, trade, or special skill. Examples include sewing, woodworking, cooking, gardening, painting, robotics, photography, quilting, music, crafts, woodworking, and many others. Whether teaching a lifelong hobby or introducing students to a new experience, volunteers help inspire curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning.
Volunteer Responsibilities ● Welcome and encourage students in grades K–12. ● Assist students with hands-on MakerSpace projects and activities. ● Share a hobby, trade, craft, or other area of expertise. ● Encourage creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. ● Help maintain a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment. ● Maintain the privacy and confidentiality of students and their families. ● Work collaboratively with teachers, staff, and fellow volunteers.
Qualifications & Requirements Volunteers should: ● Be 55 years of age or older (RSVP requirement). ● Enjoy working with children and youth. ● Be dependable, patient, and encouraging. ● Work cooperatively with school staff and other volunteers. ● Be willing to share a hobby, trade, or life skill—or simply assist students as they learn. ● Successfully complete the required RSVP background check before volunteering.
Benefits of Volunteering ● Make a meaningful difference in the lives of students. ● Become a trusted mentor and positive role model. ● Share your talents and passions with the next generation. ● Build relationships with students, staff, and fellow volunteers. ● Learn new skills while participating in MakerSpace activities. ● Receive supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see RSVP brochure).
Supervision MakerSpace volunteers work under the supervision of an Essex Community School District staff member.
