M-DCPS Unveils Innovation Space at Georgia Jones-Ayers Middle School

Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) unveiled a redesigned, technology-rich, innovation space at Georgia Jones Ayers Middle School’s media center last Thursday. The new space includes virtual reality (VR) headsets, new technology, a Makerspace area with robotics for hands-on learning, and new furniture in an open area where students can engage in creative group activities.

"These innovation spaces really enhance the learning experience for our students," said Lourdes Diaz, Chief Academic Officer for M-DCPS. "They're doing such great things. Thank you so much to all of our partners for making this place possible.”

The project was funded by a $2 million partnership between M-DCPS, the College Football Playoff Foundation, and the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship Game Host Committee.

"Before, the media center had old chairs and a couple of computers here and there. Now it's this amazing space filled with color, filled with life, filled with technology," said Nathalie Fehrenbach, a science teacher at the school. "Now students have a comfortable study space and a variety of ways they can learn, using new books or the VR headsets, other technology.  Definitely a game changer."

Students testing out the new VR headsets at Georgia Jones- Ayers Middle School's Innovation Space.

"I was amazed at how it looks.  I've been at this school for three years now but this is something new and comfortable more mindful," said eighth grader Jada Brown, "It's my last year but students coming in should use this space as an opportunity to learn and grow."

Over the next two years, a total of 18 M-DCPS middle school media centers will be redesigned to meet the unique social, emotional, and academic needs of students and teachers.

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TOP CAPTION: Pictured left to right: Representatives from the College Football Playoff Foundation, Georgia Ayers-Jones Middle School District students, Georgia Ayers-Jones Middle School Principal Dr. Carol Sampson, Chief Academic Officer Lourdes Diaz accompanied by District and school staff to unveil the school’s new Innovative Space.