To the Members of the Ohio Arts Council: 

First, thank you for providing this opportunity and allowing our school to resubmit a second application. It has been an amazing year! I have loved being a part of this program and getting to know all of these wonderful people. The students have been such a pleasant bunch and have really taken to the clay. Monroe Central High School has taken the steps to build a strong foundation for ceramics in this area. Now, we need to continue to move forward.

This year has been one of exploration, and resourcefulness. Reclaiming clay, firing kilns, and carving out studio space has been a challenge, but we have made it work. I hope that we will be able to continue to purchase equipment and grow this program. The interest is here and we are making an impact on these students.

Many students have voiced a desire to work in clay and have asked if we will be teaching ceramics next year. Our hope for this fall is to provide courses in introductory and advanced ceramic. We will take what we have learned this year and continue to refine our approach.

The most transformative part of this whole experience has been myself. These kids and the staff at MCHS have had a lasting impression on my views as a mentor and educator. The kids are incredibly complex and in need of positive passionate people. We talk about college and life and they truly are amazing. It would be wonderful to continue teaching here. Again, thank you for providing this opportunity and thank you for your time and consideration. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Aaron Anslow
Associate Professor of Fine Arts
Bethany College
Bethany WV, 26032
aanslow@bethanywv.edu
724-986-8922

Additional details:

• Yearlong artist in residence at Monroe Central
• Taught pottery
• Aaron Anslow was the artist in residence at Monroe Central during the 2018-19 academic school year. Students obtained skills in developing a variety pottery pieces that were exhibited at the school’s art show.
• A grant was written to the Ohio Arts Council to have Aaron returned for another year. 142 students stated they would register for either a Ceramic I or Ceramic II class in the 19-20 year.
• The Ohio Arts Council is funded through the state.