Sep. 29, 2022 -- It all started with some graffiti. No, not in the form of vandalism; in the form of a lesson.

Students at Noble Elementary School’s STREAM Summer Camp spent a week learning about graffiti – its history, techniques and varied uses – and were inspired to create some of their own. Their vision led to two new murals, finished just in time to welcome Noble students and families back to school.

Heights High alumnus ('94) and local artist Jimmy Hayden painted two murals inside the school, one in a main hallway and another in the cafeteria. According to Principal Patrick Carpenter, “They’re both a celebration of our students and of Noble’s 100th anniversary,” which is being celebrated this entire school year. 

“The students absolutely love them,” he said, reporting that at the Meet the Teacher event before school began, many students excitedly approached him to ask, “Have you seen the murals?”

Both murals, which were funded by the 21st Century Grant that also funds Noble STREAM, represent the school’s diversity and students’ eagerness to explore and discover, showcasing children playing instruments, conducting science experiments and writing in journals. 

The mural in the cafeteria includes the phrase “Show your Noble pride,” which Principal Carpenter says they repeat often at the school. Meghan McMahon, who helps coordinate 21st Century Grants for the district, says that Mr. Hayden “wanted the kids to sit in the lunchroom and be inspired by their surroundings.”

And they are. Principal Carpenter reports that in the past week many students have told him that they hope to be artists someday.