Logan-Hocking Middle School Art Class Receives Donation and Grant to Expand Creative Opportunities
— Logan, Ohio 5/23/25
An art class at Logan-Hocking Middle School is celebrating a boost to its creative resources thanks to a generous donation from Urban Air and a grant from the Athens Artist Memorial Project (AAMP). These contributions have allowed the class to purchase two new Chomp Saws, providing students with more diverse and hands-on opportunities for creative expression.
The Chomp Saw, a new kid-safe power tool for cutting cardboard, will be integrated into the school’s innovative art curriculum. It will allow students to safely explore three-dimensional projects such as sculpture, collaborative installations, and mixed-media pieces that integrate both artistic vision and technical skills. Its addition helps students of varying abilities engage with new materials and build confidence in a supportive and inclusive setting.
“These saws will make a real difference for our students,” said Mrs. Oldham, who teaches grades 5-8 and leads the adapted art class. “Having access to a tool like the Chomp Saw means we can offer more dynamic projects tailored to our students’ strengths and interests. It’s a huge step forward in making art more accessible and engaging for everyone.”
The donation was provided by Kirk MacKellar who heads the Urban Air Wake Up Downtown organization that raises money to benefit downtown development and charity. The grant was recently awarded from the Athens Artist Memorial Project who provides visual, literary and performing arts opportunities in addition to music. Both of these wonderful organizations recognize the lasting impact of arts education in developing creativity and problem-solving abilities.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support from Urban Air and AAMP. Their contributions directly enhance our students’ educational experiences and show the power of collaboration between schools and their supporters,” added Oldham.
As the new equipment is integrated into the classroom, Mrs. Oldham is already planning creative projects that highlight student abilities and foster collaboration, exploration, and innovation.
AAMP grants are available to teachers and individuals within southeast Ohio for Arts Education. Visual, Music, and Performance. https://www.artistsmemorialproject.org/apply-for-funds/ For more information or to learn how you can support the LHMS Art Program, please contact Mrs. Oldham at soldham@lhsd.k12.oh.us.
Gabriel Hood using the Chomp Saw in art class.