In Waterloo Region’s Catholic schools – as in all Ontario schools – there has been a growing emphasis on enhancing the teaching and learning of the STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

While these disciplines have always played a major role in the WCDSB’s robust menu of learning options, so too have the Arts.

In fact, we like to say it’s the Arts put the STEAM in STEM in our schools.

It’s been a longstanding belief in WCDSB schools that a comprehensive, quality, inclusive, faith-based education isn’t complete unless students have an opportunity to express themselves creatively in a variety of media — be it creative writing, photography, painting, music or via a range of digital platforms.

Nowhere is that opportunity for student expression more visible than at Monsignor Doyle CSS in Cambridge, where Visual Design Art teachers Lori Koebel and Andriana Cipric are carrying on a quarter-century old tradition called, simply, the “Monsignor Doyle Mural Project”.

Thanks to the “Mural Project”, when you take your first step inside the school it is instantly clear that the creativity splashed across the walls, in the hallways, and in the classrooms is woven into the fabric of what makes “The Home of the Mustangs” truly unique.

The spectacular murals throughout the school have been created over the years by Visual and Design Art Students, as part of their program.

As program participants, Grade 11 and 12 students learn through The Creative Process individually and collaboratively how to address a variety of creative challenges.

Through exploration and experimentation, they apply the elements and principles of design with increasing skill and creativity — producing art that comments and communicates a clear point of view on their school culture and their very own artistic paths.

They embrace the opportunity for their art to create a decorative social, cultural and faith impact in their school, for the betterment of humanity.

And their work speaks for itself.

It’s never been truer than it is in the hallways of Monsignor Doyle CSS, that a picture really CAN be worth a thousand words.