Our school is one of the few high schools in Oregon that still offers traditional jewelry making and metalsmithing classes. Classes are hugely popular and provide a creative outlet for disadvantaged students. Our biggest challenge is funding for materials and equipment.
Ours is the biggest and, with 77% of students on free and reduced lunch, one of the poorest high schools in Oregon.
It's also one of the most diverse with over 55 languages spoken. Despite the adversity and challenges students face, In 2010, Education Week named our school one of 21 national "education overachievers" for a graduation rate that outperforms expectations. That pride and desire to succeed starts with teachers and students who work together foster a sense of community and belonging that is immediately evident in the classroom.
Part of that success is also due to the dynamic programs offered at David Douglas High, like the jewelry making program. But, jewelry and metalsmithing classes operate on a limited budget! This makes maintaining equipment and materials a constant challenge. Our students deserve a great art program with equipment that is up to date and safe.
My Project
My students need two polishing bristle brushes, two lapidary blades, and two flex shaft grinders. These are all essential pieces of equipment in our studio and our current equipment is decades old and beyond repair. The bristle brushes will replace silica based polishing compounds and are cleaner and safer for students to use.
Students use traditional materials like copper, brass and silver to make unique works of art. Courses emphasize jewelry making as a fine art form where students explore a variety of artistic explorations, from personal narrative to historical and cultural art.
The arts play a vital role in the lives of students. This is especially true for students who face challenges; whether academic, economic or both. Many students face school life with little experience of personal success and their self esteem is often critically low. The arts offer opportunities for these students to succeed in their own way, building self esteem and confidence.
Success in the creative arts leads to greater self esteem, critical thinking skills, literacy and success in every area of student's lives.
Your donation will enrich the lives of children who need it most. Our students deserve dynamic art programs and your donation can make that happen. Thank you!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Denty and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.