What happened to Alexander K. McClure Elementary School? The answer might surprise you. While today it stands as a beacon of hope and creativity, this wasn’t always the case. Situated in the Hunting Park section of North Philadelphia, Alexander K. McClure Elementary School faced a dark period in its history. In 2007, a young man was tragically shot and killed on the school playground. This horrific event shook the community and cast a shadow over the school. Parents were understandably wary, fearing for their children’s safety and the school’s overall atmosphere. However, Alexander K. McClure Elementary School was determined to overcome this tragedy and rebuild trust within the community. A remarkable transformation began in 2013 under the leadership of Principal Sharon Marino. The school partnered with COSACOSA art at large, Inc., a public art nonprofit, to adorn the building with vibrant mosaics. What were once drab walls are now canvases of colorful street scenes, flourishing gardens, and delicate butterflies, all designed by the school’s own fifth-grade students. The project received support from organizations such as the Knight Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Picasso Project. These stunning mosaics, along with new benches and a “Hope Reading Garden,” have breathed new life into Alexander K. McClure Elementary School. The positive impact extends beyond the schoolyard. The surrounding neighborhood has also experienced a revitalization, with less graffiti and a greater sense of community pride. Alexander K. McClure Elementary School stands as a testament to the power of art and community engagement to heal, inspire, and create a brighter future.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to