It is amazing what a slab of clay can do! I teach visual arts to 9th -12th grade high school students. Clay reaches the students who do not enjoy traditional learning. Many of these students have a two -hour bus ride and do not live close to community programs that are affordable and do not have transportation to become involved in after school activities. This makes my class extremely important for students who have limited creative experiences.
Engaging my high-risk students is a particular challenge. Reaching students with clay is a therapeutic experience. Working in clay reaches visual, auditory and kinetic learners. For many students drawing and painting is overwhelming, clay is stress relieving and enjoyable!
Over the years as an art educator it is amazing how students open up and relax when they are pounding a slab of clay on the table.
A slab roller and glazes will provide our school with the materials my classroom needs to create hand built tiles for a school mural. This project will involve my students directly to the school community. When they walk down the hall they can say to their friends, "I made that tile!" Teenagers want to belong but will often not make the effort unless they are taking a class that provides these opportunities for them.
Your gift will help make it possible to provide the resources that will help engage my students and empower them to give back to their school community.
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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