We Need A New Kiln!

Hello!  My name is Stephen Harrison.  I am the visual arts teacher at a local public middle school in western North Carolina (due to school regulations I cannot mention the name).  This is my fourth year at this school, although I've been teaching for 17 years in this region.  Even though my classes cover multiple art mediums, I love working in clay.  I have personally been making and selling pottery part-time for about 20 years now.  I believe my greatest contribution to my students over the years is giving them the opportunity to work and create with clay--an opportunity I did not have as a middle schooler.  

To continue this passion at my current school, we need a new kiln.  My students are excited.  I am excited.  We need you to share in our excitement and financially help us in our pursuit! 

The current kiln I was able to acquire a few years ago is outdated, pieced together, and in a situation that it's lack of safety is stressing me out! Again, I work with middle schoolers.  And whereas I love these kids, if you know middle school, you know they are not always the most careful!  

The money we are raising will allow for us to purchase a new Skutt 1027 with computer controls.  This gives me a chance to teach my students about programing while giving them opportunities to see how technology is all around them.  The programmable unit will also allow us to fire the kiln outside of class time, creating a much safer environment for our students.

HERE'S the BEST PART.  Our new school principal has offered school funds to pay for 1/2 of the purchase price!  This is why we only need $1600 through this fundraiser!  (A new unit will cost approximately $3000). Any extra money raised will allow me to start purchasing glazes for their work.  But let's take it step by step for now...

Thank you so much for considering my students and their creative minds with your support.  It is has been said "it takes a village...."  THANKS SO MUCH for being a  a part of OUR community!