Students and Teachers Collaborate on Hallway Mural at Clara H. Carlson School
To celebrate the district’s Inclusive Community Read Program and encourage self-confidence and creative expression, Clara H. Carlson School has launched a new hallway mural initiative that brings students and staff together in a collaborative project.
Organized by the Building Advisory Committee, which includes teachers and parents, the initiative engages sixth graders and staff in designing and painting colorful murals in the main downstairs hallway. The murals are inspired by children’s novels featured in the Inclusive Community Read Program and include positive affirmations such as “You are brave” and “You are bold” to promote social-emotional learning and confidence among students.
The first mural, representing “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio, was designed by BAC member Samantha McNamara and painted with the help of volunteer sixth graders Valerie Aparicio and Madison Sledge, along with committee members Edith Chen, Yanel Cruz, Rachel Foley, Jaclyn Giantomaso and Jennifer Jiminez. This book can be read at any time throughout the school year, but is often highlighted in April as part of Autism Acceptance Month, reinforcing the school’s commitment to inclusivity.
The next mural will bring to life “The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family” by Ibtihaj Muhammad, with a new set of sixth graders volunteering to help with the painting.
The school plans to continue this mural initiative, inviting students to play an active role in shaping future designs. Students will have the chance to vote on three proposed books for the next mural, ensuring their voices and interests inspire the school’s creative environment.