Students made their own pinwheels for peace
There’s no better way to celebrate World Peace Day than Ashworth Elementary’s annual Pinwheels for Peace event.
That’s because the school continues to use their art to make the world a better place.
In fact, that was the goal for Ashworth art teacher Karen Piveral when she brought the tradition to Ashworth in 2010.
Started by two teachers in Florida, Pinwheels for Peace was a way for students to express their emotions about personal experiences and what was going on in the world. The concept quickly grew into a worldwide tradition for educators like Piveral.
“I just love the concept of using art to spread peace, love and kindness,” she said. “I wanted to bring a fun activity for my students at the beginning of the year and it just stuck.”
For 14 years, Ashworth students have expressed their creativity on their own pinwheel projects in art class.
“It’s a way for our students to know they have a voice in the world,” Piveral said.
But it’s more than just a celebration of peace. It’s a celebration of community.
At 6 a.m. last Friday, Seguin High School’s Key Club planted each pinwheel in front of Ashworth. Drumline, choir, Starline, cheer and National Art Society students lined the school’s entrance to welcome the Mustangs in celebrating school spirit and unity.
Even Arlington police officers and firefighters joined the celebration, reinforcing the message of peace and reminding students to carry that mission forward every single day.
“We want to make sure that everyone knows that all of us, whether we’re three years old or 50 years old, that we can help create peace in our corner of the world with our kind words and our kind actions,” said Ashworth Principal Stacey Maddoux.
Piveral couldn’t agree more.
“We love that everybody is here to support and to be at peace with each other,” she said. “It’s so special.”