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Every Student Paints a Rock for the Most Awesome Elementary Art Project Ever
This vibrant school-wide art initiative carries a meaningful message. An elementary school in Indiana has blended creativity with literature to craft a stunning art installation that will inspire students for years to come to embrace their individuality. At Maplewood Elementary in Newburgh, IN, students from kindergarten through fifth grade painted rocks inspired by the book Only One You, written by Linda Kranz, resulting in a colorful stone pathway leading up to the school’s entrance.
This creative endeavor was conceived by art instructor Sarah Jenkins. Although the project has only recently been completed, she has been diligently working on it for quite some time. “The funding came from a local foundation that supports unique projects in our school district,” she shared. “I applied for the grant and was fortunate to receive it earlier this year.”
Only One You tells the heartwarming story of a young fish named Adri who is about to embark on an adventure in the ocean. His parents impart valuable life lessons to him, encouraging him to “always be on the lookout for a new friend” and to “find your own way. You don’t have to follow the crowd.” The book emphasizes the uniqueness of every individual and how each person has something special to contribute to the world. “There’s only one you in this great big world. Make it a better place.”
Jenkins posted photos of her students painting the rocks, as well as the finished product, on the school’s art class Facebook page, where the images have garnered over 18,000 shares and counting. Parents and fellow educators are in awe of the project, with many expressing a desire to encourage their own schools to take a page from Maplewood Elementary’s book.
Jenkins read the book to all her students, and each child created their own distinctive rock inspired by the characters in the story using glossy indoor/outdoor acrylic paint. With around 740 students participating, they’ve made a stunning path of brilliantly colored rocks outside the main entrance.
Elementary school is a time of significant growth for kids—not just in height but in their personal development. It’s a phase where meaningful friendships blossom and children start navigating the complexities of social interactions independently. These colorful stones do more than beautify the school; they serve as a daily reminder that every student is unique and has the potential to make a difference in the world. This project, while simple in its materials, delivers a powerful message.
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In summary, Maplewood Elementary’s rock painting project is not just an art initiative; it’s a vibrant celebration of individuality and creativity that will inspire students for years to come.