New Hope-Solebury’s Lower Elementary School introduced a custom-built LiteBrite wall designed to engage students in grades K-2 in sensory exploration, creativity and academic learning. Local educators indicate this groundbreaking project, inspired by district educators and powered by student collaboration, transformed a traditional elementary school hallway into a dynamic, interactive learning environment.
Lower Elementary Principal Jennifer Bloom, Ph.D., says she recognized the limitations of conventional bulletin boards in reflecting and supporting the diverse learning experiences of students. In partnership with a committee of teachers, she and her team created a vision for a safe space for sensory exploration that could remove the stigma often associated with needing moments of regulation.
As a member of the committee, Lower Elementary special education teacher Michelle Reynolds contributed her knowledge of Applied Educational Neuroscience. Michelle says she envisioned a space where students could engage in constructive play and experience the calming effects of rhythmic, repetitive activities to regulate their emotions. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences with her kindergarten-aged son, she championed the integration of activities such as assembling Legos and manipulating LiteBrite pegs to promote self-regulation among students.
The construction of the LiteBrite wall was a collaborative effort involving both educators and students using the resources of New Hope-Solebury High School’s brand-new, state-of-the-art STEAM wing the district renovated last year.
The STEAM Wing houses a CNC router, an industry-grade precision wood-cutting machine used in most modern manufacturing. Under the guidance of STEAM instructors Richard Curtis and Craig Balmer, New Hope-Solebury high school students designed and fabricated the wall, applying their problem-solving skills and demonstrating the exciting possibilities for hands-on learning made available with their enhanced resources.
The project repurposed discarded electronics and LED panels, enabling them to create an installation valued at $8,000 for only $1,500.
As New Hope-Solebury School District educators continue to explore innovative approaches to education, the new LiteBrite wall stands as an important example of successful collaboration and student-led learning. Since its installation, the LiteBrite wall has emerged as a versatile educational resource, facilitating instruction in mathematics, phonics, collaboration and problem-solving.