This fall, as students, families, and visitors returned to Lee F. Jackson, Highview Elementary, and Richard J. Bailey schools, they were greeted by vibrant, student-created art installations that celebrate culture, creativity, and community. The projects, completed through a special partnership with ArtsWestchester and Artist-in-Residence Ms. Candace Winter, now brightens hallways and entryways across the district.
Lee F. Jackson: A Seasonal Welcome in Tile
A 10-year dream has come to life at Lee F. Jackson, where students now enter the school through a collection of student tile art. Guided by Principal Simone and Ms. Winter, kindergartners and first graders painted tiles inspired by the four seasons. These works of art now adorn the front entrance and iron pillars, symbolizing the cycles of nature and reminding the community that creativity at every age is timeless.
“This project has been a dream for more than a decade,” said Principal Simone. “Seeing our youngest learners’ creativity permanently displayed at the entrance is inspiring—it tells every child and family that their contributions matter from day one.”
Highview Elementary: Cultural Heritage Murals
At Highview Elementary, colorful cultural heritage murals celebrate identity and history. Sparked by the vision of Principal Mastrangelo, the project began last year with murals honoring Hispanic Heritage Month and Indigenous Peoples’ Month. The murals remain a powerful reminder of student voice and cultural pride, and plans are in place to expand the collection during the school year.
“The cultural heritage murals are a celebration of the richness of our community,” said Principal Mastrangelo. “They serve as a daily reminder of our students’ creativity, expressed through culture and history.”
Richard J. Bailey: Mandalas for Connection and Reflection
Sixth graders at Richard J. Bailey continued the tradition of leaving their mark on the school walls through the mandala mural project, themed No Place for Hate. Mandalas—circular, repeating patterns—are not only visually striking but also provide important social-emotional learning (SEL) benefits. The design process encourages mindfulness and focus, helping students slow down, concentrate, and find calm during the school day. It also offers a safe outlet for emotional expression, allowing students to reflect on and communicate their feelings through art.
“The mindful and repetitive nature of mandala making is powerful,” said Ms. Winter. “You can hear a pin drop in the room when the students are working on them.”
A sixth grader, whose mandala mantra was ‘traits of a good friend,’ shared: “Making the mandalas was a really relaxing experience. It feels special knowing that future students at Bailey will be able to see what I created.”
Ms. Winter added, “Each year we work on the mandala project, fourth and fifth graders pass by in the hallways and ask, ‘Will I get to do this when I’m in sixth grade?’ They are always so excited to take part.”
A Lasting Impact
These installations are more than decorative pieces—they are reflections of student imagination, values, and identity. Whether celebrating heritage, honoring the seasons, or creating mandalas of unity, each project shows that art is truly for all seasons—and for the best reasons.
WANT TO SEE THESE INSTALLATIONS? CHECK OUT OUR VIDEO SLIDESHOW!
