Etc. Center

Story from the Co-President,Allison:

This week during student teaching I was introduced to the best kept secret in Springfield, MO. THE ETC. CENTER! If you're an art teacher or just a teacher, or a student teacher (even practicum student) I want you to visit this place if you haven't already! Behind Bailey Alternative High School there are a set of doors that read Welcome to the Etc. Center. After calling the school secretary and getting the okay, you'll gain access to what's behind those doors. You sign in and grab a bag and let yourself go. This is an art teacher's dream come true and I have no idea why MSU Art Ed students were not told about it.

 

This shop is run by students at Bailey. Each barrel and shelf is filled (and extremely organized) with recycled goods that are PERFECT for classroom art projects. While I was there with my cooperating teacher we grabbed THIRTY plastic sandwich containers for a paper mache bowl project. 

Some other goodies I saw:
Glass bottles

Pill bottles
Hallmark Cards
Plastic Bags
Plastic Bottle Caps
Paper Bags

Styrofoam
Large Coffee Cans (metal and plastic)
Drink Umbrellas
Three Ring Binders
School Books
Folders
Milk Jugs

and the list goes on and on. The best part is that there are enough of each item to fill a material list for almost any art project! Check it out for yourself!!! Call Bailey High School and explain yourself and ask when it would be convenient for them to let you in. They are open Tuesdays and Thursdays 2-4pm, all other hours must be requested over the phone.

501 West Central Street  Springfield, MO 65802-3930

(417) 523-2700