Dear Channahon Families,
I always marvel at the first significant snowfall of the year. This week, I enjoyed taking a walk as the large, wet flakes gently fell on the homes decorated with lights. It was not difficult to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the winter season in that moment. The following morning, the snow had collected on the tree branches lining the street, making the neighborhood look like a Thomas Kinkade painting. I pulled out my camera and took a few photos, trying to capture the artwork in front of me.
The beauty and creativity that surround us every day inspire our own creativity. As any parent or teacher with collections of drawings and paintings of butterflies, rainbows, and sunsets can attest, this is especially true for children. Case in point, this week we enjoyed a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newest public art in Channahon – a mural at the Pioneer Path bus garage featuring the Purple Cone Flower, the official flower of Channahon. This vibrant piece of art was created by students and their families, staff, board members, and others from our community. This incredible mural symbolizes the beauty of our community as well as the immense growth that takes place in our schools.
I want to extend a very special thanks to our talented Pioneer Path art teacher, Mrs. Megan Verbic, whose vision, leadership, and commitment to cultivating the wonder of art made this project possible. She has expressed gratitude to the many students and families that contributed to this project. Thanks also go to Channahon 17 Board Members, Mrs. Pat Clower and Mrs. Nichole Nyalka, who contributed significantly to this project. Board Member Clower was instrumental in pitching the idea to make this project come to life. Thanks also go to our village officials who are committed to making the community even more beautiful through art. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Mayor Schumacher and other village officials who understand the significance of this project, and we are grateful for their support!
This project is a reflection of how important programs like art and music are in our schools. These classes and clubs provide students with the opportunity to explore their creativity, build confidence, and contribute to the beauty of our community. Channahon remains steadfast in its commitment to offering students these enriching opportunities, ensuring that as long as we have schools in this community, students will have access to the arts.
If you have not had a chance to visit the new mural, I encourage you to do so! This mural is one of many pieces of public art in and around Channahon, with more to come in the future. Thank you to everyone who made this vision a reality and to all who continue to support the arts in Channahon. Together, we are building a brighter, more beautiful community. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Warmly,
Dr. Nicholas Henkle, Superintendent