Have you heard? The Ely Folk School is renovating our kitchen!

Have You Heard?

The Ely Folk School is renovating our kitchen!

For 10 years, Ely Folk School has been a place of learning, innovation, and community. Now, we’re investing in our facilities to elevate your classroom experience.

Our new kitchen will:

• Expand capacity

• Improve flow, counter space, and storage

• Create a fresh, welcoming environment

Our goals:

1. Enhance the student experience

2. Enhance the instructor experience

3. Ensure our facility reflects the value of our programs

You can help make this possible by supporting our kitchen registry or donating directly to the Ely Folk School. Together, we’ll build a stronger, more functional community space.

Why Now?

Since our kitchen classroom was built in 2017, it has hosted potlucks, community meetings, and countless classes. It has served us well—but we’ve outgrown it. Last year’s Thanksgiving Potluck overflowed the space, reminding us how essential it is to have a beautiful, functional kitchen that matches our community’s growth.

This renovation is designed with both students and instructors in mind. With a new layout, improved flow, and modern equipment, classes will be easier to teach and more enjoyable to attend. No more awkward traffic around the coffee station or a stove that faces away from the classroom.

Led by architect and EFS Board Member Steve Klar, the renovation will enrich every class, workshop, and gathering we host.

October Programming Update

During October, while local contractors bring our new kitchen to life, Ely Folk School will run a limited program schedule at alternate locations in Ely. Our Mercantile and main facility will be closed, but staff will be available Fridays and Saturdays in the Blue Classroom, located just behind our pocket park next to the main building.

Designed for Our Community

From professional chefs to local bakers, herbalists, and collaborative cooking instructors, our teachers deserve a space that supports their unique programs. With their input, we’ve designed a kitchen that works better for them—and for you.

Your learning experience will be intuitive, comfortable, and focused. A modern, clean space with equipment to match will allow you to concentrate on craft, technique, and connection.

Thank you for helping us strengthen  Intergenerational, Non-Competitive, Learning for Life.

The Ely Folk School kitchen serves as the heart of our programming, and the heart of our community. 

We're seeking your help in making the kitchen a success! You can contribute to our community potlucks and knowledge sharing by purchasing a piece of the new kitchen here! 

Contact

Reach out to Lucy at lucy@elyfolkschool.org with any questions or for more specifics.