How a new art installation promotes acceptance and inclusivity at State College school

Students at Young Scholars unveiled a permanent, movable art installation they helped to create on Friday in an assembly centered on acceptance and inclusion.

Twenty-four students from kindergarten to eighth grade created canvases that can be rearranged and moved to make different shapes and patterns.

Two students were chosen from each grade by their teachers, along with six students receiving specialized services, Kate Bish, director of student services, said.

The installation will hang in the school’s hallway and can be arranged in different variations. The project is in collaboration with Mikayla’s Voice, a Pennsylvania nonprofit organization focused on the inclusion of people with disabilities.

Kim Resh, the founder, started the organization as a way to teach about disabilities and inclusion. The Wheels of Friendship art project started as a way to involve her daughter Mikayla, who used a wheelchair, in art projects by putting paint on the wheels and rolling across canvases. Mikayla died in 2019 but Resh is using her legacy to continue spreading the message of kindness and acceptance.

“A week later, if I have one kid sit down with a kid they didn’t know before, that’s what its all about,” Resh said. “It’s about making those connections.”

Resh now tours schools throughout Pennsylvania teaching students about being kind and inclusive to everyone.

The art unveiling is part of a yearlong program with the Young Scholars students, including book readings and assemblies about Mikayla’s Voice led by Resh.

Although each canvas is unique, they all include a wheelchair track and yellow spot, representing a ladybug spot, part of the Mikayla’s Voice logo.

Resh read “The Spot” by Holden Frey, a book written by a student Resh met while touring schools, and talked with students about what inclusivity meant.

Seventh grader Al Brooks said she’s excited to see the artwork she helped create every day in the hallways.

Fifth grade students Gavin Henry and Kai Kelley said the project and the message really resonated with them.

“I connected with the book and everyone who’s going through being bullied at school, I’ve felt that and it hurts,” Kai said.

Bish said she’s been wanting to work with Mikayla’s Voice for three years and was excited for the school and its students to have this opportunity.

“It’s a great remembrance of the time we spent together and the meaning behind it,” Bish said. “We work really hard here to promote acceptance and kindness and understanding of one another’s differences.”