Tyner Middle/High Academy
Lab description
Grade Levels:
6-8
At Tyner Middle/High Academy, the VW eLab is a cutting‑edge digital fabrication space linked to the world’s largest Fab Lab network. Integrated into the Related Arts curriculum, the lab provides a safe, industry‑standard environment where students transform ideas into reality using 3D printers, laser cutters and vinyl cutters.
VW eLab Specialist
Kyle Linfonte
Kyle Linfonte brings a decade of teaching experience in math, computer science and STEM, along with a master’s degree from St. John’s University, to his role as Tyner’s VW eLab Specialist. A passionate educator from Long Island, he champions innovation and encourages both students and colleagues to think creatively, embrace technology and connect learning to real‑world challenges.
Lab Impact
Tyner Middle/High Academy’s VW eLab is a cutting‑edge fabrication space linked to the Fab Lab network. Integrated into the Related Arts curriculum, the lab provides a safe space where students transform ideas into reality using 3D printers, laser cutters and vinyl cutters. Each design challenge begins with the same parameters, but students approach solutions in their own way. There are no instructions, only opportunities to think critically, take risks and learn from failure. Sixth graders master hand tools, 3D pens and simple circuits, creating prototypes that encourage creativity and design thinking. Seventh graders dive into digital fabrication, learning software and hardware skills to operate printers and cutters and designing products that blend art and engineering. By eighth grade, students combine these skills to build complex prototypes such as custom keychains, stickers and laser‑cut boxes, preparing them for authentic projects in the high‑school institutes. Throughout these experiences, students cultivate collaboration, perseverance and growth. Teachers integrate lab challenges into math, science and English so that concepts like geometry, physics and narrative are explored through making. Community partnerships expand possibilities: collaborations with local universities, companies and civic groups expose students to careers in technology, construction and media. The VW eLab embodies Tyner’s mission to help every student flourish through rigorous learning and meaningful connections, empowering them to lead with creativity and innovation.
Project Highlights
Tyner’s VW eLab curriculum grows with students. Sixth graders learn hand tools, 3D pens and basic circuits by creating low‑fidelity prototypes such as cardboard toys, simple machines and wearable art. They document their process and reflect on how failures lead to improvements. Seventh graders dive into digital fabrication. They learn design software and operate 3D printers, laser cutters and vinyl cutters to create custom keychains, stickers, laser‑cut puzzle boxes and lamps. Eighth graders build complex prototypes that combine multiple tools and tie into high‑school institutes. They design phone stands, assemble laser‑cut boxes with living hinges, create layered landscapes and build small wooden furniture, earning micro‑credentials that certify skills and build digital portfolios. Teachers integrate lab projects into math, science, English and social studies. Students design tessellations and scale models to explore geometry; build solar cars, wind turbines and hydraulic arms to study energy and forces; design book covers and character avatars; and recreate historical artifacts and monuments. Community partners add real‑world challenges. Students design signage and merchandise for school events, produce awards for competitions, build prototypes for local companies and create adaptive tools for senior centers. Partnerships with universities and businesses introduce careers in technology, construction and media. Students participate in robotics tournaments, design contests and entrepreneurship fairs. The VW eLab hosts a career fair where students showcase projects and meet industry professionals. Open studios let students pursue passion projects. Older students mentor younger ones, building leadership and collaboration. By the end of eighth grade, students have a portfolio of completed projects, micro‑credentials and experiences working with clients. They leave Tyner’s VW eLab ready to apply design thinking and fabrication skills to high school and beyond.
