Jr. Innovation Lab
Where Young Minds Explore, Create, and Innovate!
Welcome!
In Jr. Innovation Lab, young learners embark on an exciting journey of discovery, where curiosity is sparked, and creativity thrives through hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities. Designed for grades 1-3, this dynamic program empowers kids to experiment, build, design, and explore in a fun, engaging environment.
From constructing towering structures to diving into the world of coding, each session is packed with interactive projects, problem-solving challenges, and teamwork-driven exploration. Our mission is to cultivate a lifelong passion for innovation while strengthening critical thinking skills and confidence in every child.
We are so glad you stopped by to see how we use STEAM education to learn at FPDS. At the top of this page, you will find a tab for each grade that provides insight to the lessons, websites, apps, and projects we are working on. The "Links" tab offers a ton of links to educational websites, games, and cool apps. Also included is the "After School Activities" tab for my after school clubs, and the "Summer Camps" tab for my current camps offered in the summer. We also have Facebook and Instagram accounts. You can find us at FPDS Innovation Lab on Facebook and fpdsilab on Instagram. We will be using the hashtags: #THEilab, #FPDSinnovationlab, #technologyrocks, and #fullSTEAMahead. Check us out!
Join us as we dream, tinker, and bring ideas to life—one exciting experience at a time!
Meet the teacher!
Hello! My name is Mrs. Brister, and I serve as the Innovation Lab instructor at FPDS. With 31 years of teaching experience—20 years in traditional 3rd and 4th-grade classrooms and 11 years specializing in Technology and STEM education—I am passionate about fostering creativity and critical thinking in young learners. I joined the FPDS community in 2010 and have been blessed to be part of such a faith-centered environment ever since.
I am married to Mr. Trey Brister, who is a former Hinds County Investigator and now, a valued member of our school's security team. Together, we have two wonderful daughters, ages 30 and 21, and two precious granddaughters. Teaching at FPDS is an absolute joy, as it allows me to integrate my Christian faith into education while inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Should you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. My email is cbrister@fpds.org.