When students at Cuyahoga Heights Elementary School come together, the result can be something beautiful. The evidence – a 4- by 9-ft. collage composed of individually designed paw prints – hangs across from the main office at the school entrance.
“It’s more than just a picture,” said art teacher Sean Garrow. “It’s a reflection of who we are as a school family. Each piece reflects a unique part of us, coming together to build not just a collage, but a community where everyone belongs.”
A drawing of a paw print was selected because it represents the Wolf Pup, a younger version of the district’s Red Wolf mascot. Every student, from Pre-K to grade five, and all staff members, contributed to the project. Grades 1-5 used colored pencils and markers to create their design. Kindergarteners used crayons, markers, and colored pencils.
Garrow used the exercise to assess the students’ art skills and ability to use these drawing instruments, as well as to help them to get comfortable with Art Room procedures. Once the paw prints were completed, some teachers and staff members spent about three hours after school over a three-day period to help Garrow assemble and hang the collage.
“One of the things I love most about art is that it is a great way to connect with people without them even knowing it,” noted Garrow. In seeing their artwork showcased for all to see, Garrow is hopeful that the college will inspire students to be creative and know that they are supported in all their learning endeavors. “I want the students to know that being creative through art is just as important as their other classes and it can be a great outlet for the human experience.”
He is hopeful that the project helped the students learn that no matter what, “We are a team, a family, and that we can all work together to accomplish something. And that by working together, we can make beautiful things happen.”
