In a vibrant collaboration with St. Petersburg muralist Nicole Salgar, students at John Hopkins Middle School co-created Nourishing Growth, a mural that transforms the cafeteria stage’s flanking walls into a joyful celebration of learning and nature. Part of the school’s identity as the Center for the Arts, Journalism and Gifted Students, this project embraced art as a living part of education.

From initial sketches to brushstroke contributions, students engaged deeply in every stage—learning shading, depth, and expressive detail as they painted alongside Nicole. Their involvement wasn’t just technical; it was empowering.