Grade 6 students at St. John Paul II School left a beautiful and unique legacy at their school this year, by building a stained glass representation of the brand new school logo.
The stained glass tree logo was brought to life in a 4 ft glass mosaic that now hangs in the window above the main foyer.
"I was pretty shocked that our Grade did that. It was cool to see our work come together and it looks really nice," said graduated Grade 6 student, Trinity Van Aertselaer.
The Grade 6 class worked with artist Kris Gould from Fragile Glass Studio. Kris helped the students learn the different techniques of glass cutting and welding. They were able to practice before taking on the big project of recreating the school logo.
"Kris is a natural artist! She was able to work with the many students in smaller groups both at the school and at her shop. She was very patient with the students, teaching them the skills of the trade. The students would always come back to the school raving about what they did that day and everything they learned," said Grade 6 teacher Jon Walters.
The students made both the large cross that hangs in the window of the foyer as well as a smaller cross that has their names etched into it that hangs in the learning commons.
"It was fun. Cutting the stained glass and learning how to cut it was my favourite part. I didn't know you could actually shape glass like that," said student Jim Whiteway.
Walters added that while many students started off hesitant, they were quick to jump into the project and enjoy learning more about glass art. The best part however was the big reveal at the Grade 6 Graduation Celebration.
"The students were able to see their progress throughout the year but when they revealed the final two pieces at their grade 6 celebration, both students and their families were able to see all the hard work that was put into creating the art pieces. It was a magical experience for the students to be able to showcase the hard work they collaboratively did throughout the year," he said.
The Grade 6 legacy project is something that takes place every year at the school, but this year's project was extra special with the unveiling of the new school logo.
