Whether they enjoy sports, reading, dance or theater, the unique talents of CGD Middle School students are celebrated on a new mural. The mural was completed a couple months ago, thanks to the helping hands of many. What makes the mural even more special is the fact that it was designed by a middle school student.
The history of the mural goes back over a year now. CGD K-8th grade art teacher Kaira Downing explained that she had wanted to see a new mural on the middle school wall for some time. She personally has done other murals in the school and had received permission for a new one in the middle school.
Rather than just take on the project herself, Downing decided to tap into the talents of the students. So last year, she put out a call to the artistic middle schoolers to design a mural. Downing said students were allowed to design the mural as they wanted, but she had one requirement. It had to incorporate the idea “Find Your Greatness.” She said about the theme, “That idea can really fit everyone, and it embraces principles from the Leader in Me program.”
Downing confirmed that there were many unique designs submitted, but one stood out. 8th grader Natalie Greving has always enjoyed art. She said the “Find Your Greatness” theme got her thinking last year. She wanted to design a concept that would celebrate as many activities as she could. “I wanted to find something we’re all good at,” said Natalie. “There’s lots of extra-curricular activities that we all like to do.”
With that in mind, Natalie came up with a colorful design that included pictures of many activities that she and her classmates enjoy. Lots of different sports were represented, as well as music, art and other hobbies. The theme “Find Your Greatness” was featured in graffiti-like font.
Downing explained that the teachers narrowed down the designs to four, and then the students themselves got to vote on their favorite. Natalie’s design grabbed the most votes. Downing said they were hoping to complete the mural last spring. But then, like with so many things, COVID put a stop to the plans.
After months of the mural idea sitting on the shelf, the ball got rolling again this school year. Throughout the months of November and December, Downing, Natalie and many helpers were busy at work. Downing first sketched out the mural on the wall, trying to stay as true to Natalie’s design as possible.
Then the long hours painting began. The pair got help from several students including Kadence Mossman, Candy Salgado-Barcenas, Carly Jones and Gabby Oppman. Teachers Hayley Anderson, Julie Klaver and Whitney Dahlgren also lent a hand. The crew spent around 33 hours on the project said Downing, working after school and even some weekends. But the end product was worth it.
Both Natalie and her teacher love how the mural turned out. “I’m proud of it because it shows that everyone, no matter what you like, belongs,” Natalie emphasized. For her part, Downing said, “I’m so proud of Natalie for working on this project and all the others who helped and also want to thank the administration who lets us be creative like this.”
Middle School Principal Steve Haberman is also pleased with the mural. “We want our students to find their passion. A project like the mural gives them an avenue for students to shine in and out of the classroom,” he said.
