Ceramics Offers Opportunity for Creativity

With ten individuals enrolled, the Adult Education ceramics class in Chinook has been underway since March 10. Under the direction of Chinook High School Art Teacher Shay Waldbillig, the course will run for five weeks, with the final session planned for April 7.

Because this is Waldbillig's first class, she planned for eight total sessions over the five-week period but will likely make adjustments due to time constraints. The group meets in the high school art room from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

About the sessions, Waldbillig described: "I have shown the students direction in some of their projects. The first week was pinch pots and bowls on the wheel. This past week was mugs on the wheel. Next week, the students will make plates on the wheel. Fortunately, the students have had a chance to make their own projects in between when they've had time. I am leaving the last two weeks open for students to create something they want by using the techniques they have learned from the class."

When asked what prompted her to offer the course, Waldbillig stated: "I feel like a lot of things prompted me to offer this class. I love pottery, and many of my friends and coworkers showed interest in wanting to learn, too. Now, I get to spend more of my time doing what I love after school hours with a fun group of people eager to learn. I also wanted to challenge myself as a teacher and do something that I had not done before. I have really enjoyed teaching a different dynamic of students."

Although she is unaware of any other adult education classes currently being offered, Waldbillig claims that she hopes to set a date for another class in the future.