The Excellence in Education Foundation proudly funded $1,354 to support a third-grade ceramics grant at Truckee Elementary School, making it possible for classrooms to have clay carving tools, sponges, Mayco ceramic glazes, and texture rollers. The grant was submitted by third-grade teacher Dana Seaborg, and gives over 75 students the chance to explore ceramic art.
The funding supports Ms. Seaborg’s program that introduces students to foundational hand-building techniques, including pinch pots, coil building, and slab construction. Through monthly projects, students are learning that art is a creative process that takes time and patience.
As students shape, join, and glaze their creations, they strengthen fine motor skills, improve problem-solving skills, and learn to stick with a project from start to finish.
“Students love each step in the ceramics process,” Dana shared. “From wedging the clay with their hands to experimenting with glazes, they love the multi-day process and beg for more.”
During the 2025/26 school year, students took inspiration from their Dreaming Tree field trip to create festive mini jack-o-lanterns for Halloween. With each project, the excitement among students continues to build. Here’s what they have to say about working with ceramics:
“I like to be crafty. I like to use our imaginations for what we want our creations to look like.” — Clara
“I love how smooth the glazes come out. Don’t be a Lazy Glazy!” — Lily
“I like doing ceramics and art to express myself.” — Alexa
Looking ahead, all third-grade classes will continue to share the materials funded by this grant. Dana is also putting together a curriculum guide with lesson plans and project ideas so the program can continue for years to come. And at the end of the year, a third-grade art show in the school library will bring everyone together, including families, teachers, and students, to celebrate the creativity, growth, and pride in every ceramic piece.
Ms. Seaborg’s ceramics program is a perfect example of what can happen when great ideas and community support come together! Excellence in Education is proud to support teacher-led innovation that enriches learning, sparks creativity, and gives students the chance to learn by doing, one handful of clay at a time.