With the upcoming retirement of longtime woodworking teacher, Brad Connor, USD 379 has begun the process of looking for a replacement.
Connor joined the district in 1984 and is set to retire after 41 years at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.
The caseload includes drafting and cabinetmaking classes at CCCHS and industrial arts at CCCMS in the afternoon.
Connor said the computer-aided drafting, or CAD class teaches students how to use basic drafting tools, as well as the ability to use the program to develop different types of drawings. Chief Architect software is also utilized in the class.
The class has helped create plans for a daycare facility, buildings at the Clay Center Zoo, and floor plans for the Tiger House, a house that’s built and sold annually by CCCHS students.
Followed by that course, Connor teaches cabinetmaking for two hours, where students use power tools, machines, computer numerical control (CNC) programming and operation, wood finishes, furniture design, a solar kiln, and more. Former students in this class have produced dining tables, bedside tables, gun cabinets, cabinets, bookshelves, CNC plaques, and segmented bowls.
Finally, Connor’s teaching load ends the day at CCCMS with eighth graders, who start with a basic overview of hand drawings, CAD, and general machine usage and safety. These students make cutting boards and steam-bent veneer rings.
“I can’t say enough how much support I have received from our administration and staff. I look forward to going to work and teaching such good students.” Connor said. “I can say that the Community of Clay Center is special. I had no idea that I would be here this long.”
The district said a teaching degree is not necessarily required to take the job. Anyone with a general construction degree, or has a bachelor’s degree and has worked at least two years in the construction area, they can be eligible. The district is willing to help fund license/degree fees for the right candidate. In addition, the new hire can finish their degree on the job.
To learn more about the position or to apply, go to usd379.org and click on employment.
