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La Conner Schools officials are fired up about the district’s arts program’s newest addition.

It is, after all, a kiln for students to use to fire pottery.

The acquisition is made possible by a $2,500 donation from the Anacortes-based Rick Epting Foundation, accepted at the school board’s October meeting.

Director of Special Programs Andy Wheeler explained that the Epting Foundation, an all-volunteer organization that raises money for the arts, had decided on a gift of up to $1,500.

Wheeler checked with teachers and heard from Steve DeLeon that a new kiln would be appreciated. The Foundation then offered the larger sum.

Foundation representatives are coming to campus today (Wednesday) for a 3 p.m. presentation.

“We’re thankful the Foundation is helping the district buy a new kiln,” said Wheeler.

The Epting Foundation’s mission is to raise money to promote and encourage the arts in Skagit County. It is named for the late Rick Epting, a founding member of the Lincoln Theatre Center and Skagit Performing Arts Council. He was instrumental in the planning for Skagit Valley College’s McIntyre Hall and a member of the Washington State Arts Commission.

Epting supported county arts groups and organizations until his death in 2005.

The La Conner Fourth of July concert at the marina is a fundraiser benefiting the Foundation.