Rhode Island public schools have the opportunity to expand coursework available to students through the All Course Network (ACN).

Enriching experiences with supplemental coursework help students get a head start on postsecondary success, master the skills required of a lifelong learner, and be prepared for jobs in sectors critical to Rhode Island’s future prosperity.

Design | Make | Manufacture (DMM) is a semester-long, credit-bearing career readiness course Brenda designed and taught for 9th and 11th graders at the MET High School E-Center. Built around two parallel tracks, Project Invent on Tuesdays and Design Lab on Thursdays, students spent half their time solving real community problems through invention and the other half mastering advanced manufacturing tools including laser cutters, 3D printers, vinyl cutters, embroidery machines, and micro-controllers. Every lesson was structured around design thinking, hands-on making, and a final passion project culminating in a live pitch and a badging ceremony celebrating every skill earned along the way.

The PPL Summer STEAM Adventure is a 6-week paid internship Brenda designed for high school students at the Providence Public Library. Aligned to RIDE and Next Generation Science Standards, the program immerses students in hands-on makerspace training, community engagement, and real-world project work, from mastering laser cutters and 3D printers to leading open studio sessions and presenting at a closing showcase.