NEW BEDFORD, Mass. - s4story -- - Global Learning Charter Public School (GLCPS), a tuition-free public charter school that serves 500 students in grades 5-12, is opening its Innovation Lab to students, staff and the New Bedford Community by reservations.

The lab will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-7 pm in the Joan and Irwin Jacobs STEAM Center for Education. The students at GLCPS have been very fortunate to have access to these tools in their technology courses for school projects. Now, the school is making the lab available to the public in the hopes that more people will have the opportunity to bring their ideas to light. Available for use are computers, a Cricut, a Glowforge and a 3D printer. The use of the Innovation Lab is free but there may be costs for materials.

Director of School Culture Darlease Monteiro is the brainchild behind this initiative. As the former technology teacher at GLCPS, she has been working to introduce the lab and its creative tools to the community during off-school hours. "I've wanted to open the Innovation Lab for many years to give the New Bedford community an opportunity to experience and learn new things. This lab makes that possible with the computers, laser cutter, 3D printer, and Cricut machine."

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Although this lab may seem intimidating for those who have never used these tools before, no previous experience is necessary.

"I hope people will gain a sense of confidence in being able to do creative things and learn or improve their computer skills." said Monteiro. "Whether you are new to technology, your skills are dusty, or you're a technology master; this lab is for everyone. There will be students and staff at every lab to provide assistance and ensure you're having the best experience possible."

To register go to https://bit.ly/4srGwVL and then register yourself for the lab hours that you choose to attend. Join a workshop or reserve time to work on your own project. The Innovation Lab is located in the GLCPS STEAM Center which is right next to the Main Campus building. Registration is required and space is limited. For more information contact GLCPS Director of School Culture Darlease Monteiro at 508-991-4105.