first Fab Lab, established more than a decade ago in partnership with MIT and the local community. The lab serves as a creative hub where students can design, prototype, and invent—learning through collaboration and experimentation. “When the Fab Lab began, it wasn’t tied to a single department,” Keyser explains. “Art teachers, tech ed teachers, math and science instructors all trained through MIT’s Fab Lab program. The goal was to make design thinking a shared language across disciplines.” Today, the Fab Lab connects directly to Stoughton’s STEM and STEAM curriculum. Middle school students begin with exploratory courses that feed into high school engineering, design, and business tracks. Ahlgren says the district has worked hard to create a seamless transition. “Our middle and high school teachers collaborate so students can see what’s ahead. We want them to understand how the skills they’re learning now—whether in math, technology, or art—translate into real-world applications.” Every student in the district is equipped with an iPad or Chromebook, ensuring that technology enhances learning rather than distracting from it.“Technology is a catalyst,”Ahlgren says.“It’s not about the device— it’s about what students can do with it.” LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Stoughton’s approach to education embraces a broader definition of learning—one that extends beyond the traditional four walls of a classroom. Through the district’s youth apprenticeship program, students gain hands-on experience in local businesses across manufacturing, finance, and technology sectors. The district’s strong ties to area employers give students early exposure to real work environments. “Our youth apprenticeship numbers are climbing every year,” Ahlgren notes.“Our community partners are incredibly generous.They open their doors to our students, providing mentorship and opportunities that complement classroom learning.” Keyser sees this as part of a larger shift in education. “The high school experience is evolving,” he says. 340 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12
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