Alamo School
with
National
Blue Ribbon Award

Funded Programs
Music
Ceramics
Visual Arts
Physical Education
The ceramics program at Alamo School is much more than just working with clay. It is a curriculum that includes some of the history of ceramics, using examples from many cultures. Each grade level builds on their previous year's experience. This way students are able to continue developing different skills in working with clay.

Kindergarten students are introduced to clay by making a clay impression of their own handprint. This is one of the most "cherished pieces" that parents always proudly display.

In first grade, the students actually begin working with clay. They complete four projects. Each project teaches different techniques and includes firing and glazing.

Second grade students also do four projects, but they use different techniques. They make bowls and self-portrait tiles and learn more about sculptural functions.

In the third grade, teachers usually have special requests, and students are also given a "free choice" clay day. This year something special has happened. Our students were asked to decorate a Christmas tree in Davis Symphony Hall. Stanley Edwards, Alamo's Ceramics Teacher, made different shaped ornaments, using the skills and talents of the students. This was done in collaboration with Jennifer Tong, the visual arts teacher, who helped the students paint these ornaments.

In fourth grade students make intricate baskets and fill them with a variety of different objects. The focus is a "still-life celebration."

Fifth grade students use a different type of clay. They make ceramic tiles using native animals and insects. These tiles will decorate the school and garden area. Students will also make large pots to use in the outdoor garden.

This program has been so successful with the students that the Foundation funded the purchase of a second kiln to handle the volume of the clay works created by the classes. Thanks to the generosity of contributors like you who made this possible.

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