Penn Hills Elementary Opens “The PHactory,” A Maker Learning Space That Puts Creativity on Display

Penn Hills Elementary School has unveiled The PHactory, a dynamic new maker learning space designed to put creativity, innovation, and student imagination front and center. Located in the school’s main entrance, The PHactory ensures that every visitor sees what learning looks like in Penn Hills the moment they walk through the doors.

The PHactory was developed through the vision of Mrs. Kirsten Kriss, a Penn Hills Innovation Institute Fellow, who imagined a space where students could explore ideas, experiment with materials, and bring their inventions to life. What began as a concept rooted in design thinking has evolved into a visible, hands-on learning environment that celebrates curiosity and problem-solving at every grade level.

“The PHactory is a perfect example of how teacher-led innovation can transform how students experience learning in Penn Hills,” said Dr. John Mozzocio, Superintendent. “It embodies our commitment to making learning visible, where imagination, exploration, and creation are part of the daily experience.”

Built around the Design Thinking Process—Empathize → Define → Ideate → Prototype → Test—The PHactory provides students with the tools and mindset to turn ideas into real-world solutions. Students engage in maker projects that blend art, science, and engineering, learning to collaborate, iterate, and innovate through hands-on experiences.

“When you walk into Penn Hills Elementary, you don’t just see a school, you see learning in motion,” said Principal Mr. Chris Cence. “The PHactory captures the spirit of innovation that defines our district and the belief that every child is a creator.”

The PHactory is part of a broader district-wide effort to redefine what learning looks like through the Penn Hills Innovation Institute and the PHorge Academy. Each initiative empowers students and educators to explore new ideas, apply technology in meaningful ways, and connect learning to the world beyond the classroom.