Messages That Matter

Exploring identity and community through a Make a Difference class project.

Eagle Hill students brought an inspiring message to the hallways of the PJM STEM Center through a collaborative community art project. Chloe Z. ’27 and Maddie D. ’27 invited community members to reflect on one positive trait they bring to Eagle Hill School. Each contribution was written on a star, collected, and assembled into a temporary mural celebrating the whole community.

Once the stars were collected from across campus, Chloe and Maddie teamed up with a group of students to bring the project to life. They planned the design, organized logistics, and assembled the art piece—sharing laughs and creating lasting memories as they admired the uplifting messages from their peers and teachers.

This project was part of Kat Thompson’s Make a Difference class, where students explore how individuals shape organizations and communities. When asked what inspired the direction of their project, Chloe said, “Coming together as a community, and doing something together that everyone will enjoy.” Maddie added that they wanted a project everyone could participate in and felt an art piece was the best way to achieve that.

“Each individual is unique, and we all come together to celebrate differences or similarities, showing what characteristics we have.”

Chloe also emphasized, “I think this project also shows that we're not alone. Each individual is unique, and we all come together to celebrate differences or similarities, showing what characteristics we have.” Chloe also added, “when you're writing down what you bring to the community, you get to learn about yourself as well. You get to understand what kind of person you are, and who other people are.”

Maddie highlighted the project’s community impact: “It’s not just students—it’s teachers, too. When they walk by, they see it and say, ‘I was part of that.’ It’s so cool to stop and see what others shared.” She also noted that reading the stars reveals our CORE values along with the unique traits of each community member. Maddie and Chloe hope that seeing it all together serves as a reminder that we’re connected and part of something bigger.

Their temporary mural is currently on display in the PJM STEM Center for community members to enjoy. Take a peek at these inspiring messages from the community and read what we all contribute to the Eagle Hill School community.