Teacher Resources

Have a student whose next question goes beyond the worksheet? Use these resources to support independent projects and introduce a family to Launchpad’s Dallas makerspace for gifted youth ages 11–18. Teachers, counselors, librarians, school leaders and academic-team coaches can become Talent Scouts.

The resources below are open to read, copy or print. No account or survey is needed to use them.

A Small Project Planner

Let the student choose the question and do the thinking. An adult can help identify where supervision or expert guidance is needed.

1. What do I want to find out or make? Write one question or describe something you wish worked differently.

2. Why does it interest me? Explain who it could help or what you are curious about.

3. What is the smallest version I can try? Sketch a paper model, a simple design, a short piece of code or a plan for an observation.

4. What will I need? List materials, tools, information and help. Use equipment only with appropriate permission and supervision.

5. How will I know what happened? Decide what you will observe, compare or record.

6. What will I change next? Describe what you learned and choose one next step.

Starting points inspired by Launchpad projects include a steady-beat device, weather measurements, a 3D design or a panel of programmable buttons. These are starting questions, not scheduled classes.

A Note You Can Share With a Family

Subject: Independent projects for a curious student

Hello,

I thought Launchpad Incubator might be worth exploring for your family. It is a nonprofit makerspace and idea lab in West Dallas for gifted students ages 11–18. Crewmembers pursue independent projects with access to tools, peers and mentors.

If your child enjoys exploring questions, building things and figuring out unfamiliar problems, learn about membership at https://www.launchpadincubator.org/get-involved/crewmember or start a parent application request at https://www.launchpadincubator.org/get-involved/apply.

A parent or guardian starts the request. Launchpad then sends the application; acceptance is a separate step. I am sharing an opportunity to explore, not confirming eligibility or admission.

3D Print for Your Classroom

Anyone who signs up as a Talent Scout can come to Launchpad to 3D print something for their campus or classroom for free.

Become a Talent Scout

Complete the Teacher Talent Scout Survey to introduce yourself, your school and your role. The survey asks how Launchpad might connect with your campus. It does not book a visit or confirm a school partnership.

Open the Talent Scout Survey

Family Application Request

Google sign-in is required for the embedded survey. If it does not appear below, open the Teacher Survey in a new tab.