I am a big fan of a collaborative art project. Before the doors of YVCS opened, we began working on a large canvas which read, “Together we can…” at the top. All the kids at school, as well as others in the community, had a chance to contribute their idea for the end of that sentence. Some painted words such as “dance”, “eat BBQ”, “make the world a better place” and “grow”. This piece of art has hung in our school for the past two years. It served as a reminder that, together we can make anything happen, including making this school a success.

Over time, the paint faded. The work of art had served its purpose. We had done it; together, we had started a school.

So I wanted to do another collaborative art project to replace it. But, instead throwing it away and getting a new canvas, we decided to paint over the original piece. First, recycling is always good. Second, I liked the idea of layering something new on top of that original piece. “Working together as a community to start the school” was the foundation. On top of it, we would add the next layer of our story. We talked as class about what the new painting should be. We looked at a number of quotes and decided, by vote, which quote we felt best represented where we are now. The Socrates quote, “Wisdom begins in wonder,” received the most votes. Next we decided how we were going to paint the background. The kids wanted to do a splatter painting. I knew that would be very messy. However, it turned out to be a more difficult and time-consuming task that we had all anticipated. My arm was sore for days!

The final product is now hanging back in its original spot. I think it is beautiful and is a great reflection of our sweet, wild, creative, curious little school.