As part of the implementation of the Chattanooga Design Your Neighborhood Curriculum students at Howard connect elementary installed art work to enhance their urban environment. The final murals, designed by students through local artist, Alecia Buckles, include two different designs. The first solution on the sidewalks focuses on the school mascot, a tiger, by using paw prints and color blocks to create a clear safe route that indicated you’ve arrive on school grounds. The mural covering the entrance walk to the school highlights the gears that represent the students and schools creativity.

After classwork workshops and group review the students were able to select their final designs and help install the murals. Seeing how they can implement change to their urban environment in real time.

Teal Thibaud previously worked with Hamilton County Schools on a project-based learning program which has now been adopted by their Innovation Department. She is able to combine this experience with her understanding of community-informed planning and the school system in this unique project. The curriculum, which has been updated for Chattanooga, includes 140 hours of hands-on lessons taught in traditional classroom settings, allowing for neighborhood tours, mapping exercises, games, and collaborative group projects. The program also supports teachers by providing training, project materials, and access to a network of design professionals as classroom volunteers.