The woodworking program provides an engaging space in which middle school students draw on many of the skills they have learned during the younger grades. Time spent during earlier years exploring and working with natural materials now broadens to include shaping locally sourced wood with professional grade carving tools and traditional woodworking instruments. Students hone their fine motor skills and grow their confidence while using tools that require focus and precision. Initially students familiarize themselves with carving tools by learning to taper and round square pieces of wood. They progress to carving spoons and animals. Their studies culminate in projects such as stools or bowls.