The Clay CoOp

 

The Classroom is our adult education space within The Clay CoOp. Our mission is to provide an exceptional learning experience in a studio that is safe, inclusive, productive, and respectful. The guidelines below will help you transition smoothly into our community of ceramic artists.

We provide clay for each student. Working in clay can be messy, so feel free to bring a towel. We supply all essential tools. You are welcome to bring your own, but please take them with you when you leave.

 

Code of Conduct

We are committed to an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected.

• Treat every person with dignity and kindness, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

• Use names and pronouns as shared by each person. If you make a mistake, correct it briefly and move on.

• Create a collaborative atmosphere. Offer help when it is wanted. Ask before giving feedback on someone’s work.

• Keep conversations considerate. Avoid heated or disruptive topics during class time. If a discussion makes someone uncomfortable, change the topic or take it outside the work area.

• No harassment, bullying, intimidation, or discriminatory language or behavior.

• Keep the studio accessible. Do not block aisles, sinks, or shared tools. Ask staff if you need an accommodation.

• If an issue arises, speak with an instructor or staff member promptly. We will address concerns privately and respectfully. Violations of this code may result in a warning, removal from class, or loss of studio access.

 

Parking

• Please use the marked spots on the side of the building without garage doors, across from The Hip Hop Shop and the Purple Narwal records.

• Parking is for active studio use only. No commuter or metro parking.

 

Clay, Glaze, and Firing

• All clay used in The Classroom must be purchased from The Clay CoOp.

• Only work made in our studio is eligible for firing. Pieces made at home are not accepted.

• Label all clay with your name and store it on the bottom shelf of the ware board rack when not in use.

• Use only glazes and underglazes provided by The Classroom unless you have prior instructor approval for a specific product that fits our firing temperature.

• The kiln loader is responsible for safe firings and may defer or exclude work that could compromise a kiln load.

• Ware boards are held for six weeks from the date on their label. After that window, unclaimed items are discarded. Please pick up finished work promptly.

 

Studio Safety

• Minimize dust. Clean with a wet sponge or other wet methods. Avoid sweeping or actions that create airborne dust.

• Leave wheels, tables, tools, and floors clean and orderly after use.

• Keep food out of clay and glaze areas. Covered drinks are fine.

• Report damaged equipment or spills to staff right away.

 

Studio Etiquette

• Do not touch or move another person’s work.

• Keep music and phone use quiet and non-disruptive. Headphones are fine if you can still hear safety instructions.

• Be mindful of shared resources. Return tools to their homes and wipe down sinks and splash zones.

• The resident artist area is private. Enter only with an instructor.

 

Attendance, Refunds, and Makeups

• We do not offer makeups. Our pricing includes built-in absences. For example, an eight week class is priced at the cost of six sessions. You are welcome to attend all eight.

• There are no refunds after a class session begins. Refund and credit details before the start date appear on each registration page.

• We reserve the right to use up to one planned absence in the event of a weather emergency.

 

Questions or Support

If you need help, have an access request, or want to share feedback, please speak with your instructor or email the studio. We are here to help you learn, create, and enjoy your time in The Classroom.