With all of the rules and regulations on using dangerous materials
now, I don't know if you will be able to do this in the public schools
(Ohio has Jarod's Law - not sure if that eliminates all dangerous art
materials). Cutting styrofoam with hot wires does release toxic fumes.
Tim never had a problem doing this lesson with his students. I suppose
you could cut the pieces with a jig saw or scroll saw - but that is
very messy. Hot wires give a clean cut.