Student ambassadors’ stained glass project brightens George V

A spirited student project has brought a dash of colour to a well-known architectural feature at École George V School.

“The Linkway,” as it is known by students and staff alike at George V, is a windowed corridor that connects the older main school building with a more recent addition. It is a well-travelled hall that is used every day by students and staff.

A group of 12 student ambassadors were chosen to each create a stained glass artwork window for The Linkway.

“I sent an email to all of the staff in the school, asking them to nominate one or two students from their class who are consistently being kind and helpful to other students and teachers,” said music teacher Liz Riel.

George V has embraced a school-wide philosophy of being “bucket-fillers.” Through compliments, encouragement and acts of kindness, students can brighten each others’ day and fill their “bucket.” Author Carol McCloud popularized the concept in her book Have You Filled a Bucket Today?

“Our school has really focused on being bucket fillers,” Ms. Riel said. “We always talk about being kind, being helpful and how we can fill other peoples’ buckets.”

When it came to the art project, students chose their own designs; they painted the windows with Tempra paint (diluted with water and dish soap for easier removal) and used carefully placed painters’ tape to help stencil their artwork.

Grade 3 student Tahlia Quartel painted a landscape for her window: “I just did something normal, like mountains with grass at the bottom and a bird up high, that Ms. Riel helped me with. I just like nature a lot.”

Grade 4 student Ava Munoz painted a striking graphic design for her window.

“I painted a shooting star, and had my initials at the bottom with other tiny stars,” she said, adding that she chose the design “because it defines my personality.”

Both students said they were honoured to work on the project, and they practise kindness every single day.

“We are good in class and always try to be helpful to others,” Tahlia said.

“I am kind because I want to set a good example for the younger kids,” Ava said.

Ms. Riel said the artwork has made a lasting impression on students and staff alike.

“It brightens up the Linkway and it celebrates the students,” Ms. Riel said. “The other kids were really excited about it, they are always looking at this beautiful artwork as they walk by.”

While the students’ creations are temporary, they will grace the Linkway for the remainder of the school year.

“We plan on doing this once or twice a year in the future, as a way of recognizing and celebrating George V students,” Ms. Riel said.