North Middlesex High School Graduate Paints Mural for Ashby Elementary School

TOWNSEND — Superintendent Brad Morgan and Ashby Elementary School Principal Anne Cromwell-Gapp are pleased to share that Caleigh Hardy, a graduate of North Middlesex High School’s class of 2022, has returned to the North Middlesex Regional School District to paint a series of wall murals in the main lobby of Ashby Elementary School.

Hardy, who is now in her second year at Endicott College in Beverly, spent the duration of her spring break on March 18-22 painting inspirational and welcoming messages on the lobby walls.

“She captured the North Middlesex spirit perfectly,” said Anne Cromwell-Gapp, Principal of Ashby Elementary School. “We’re honored that she took time off from her college break to make our building more welcoming to students.”

Vicki Domings, the visual arts teacher at North Middlesex Regional High School, connected Hardy, a former visual arts student in her class, with Principal Cromwell-Gapp for the project. Domings lended her expertise on the logistics of the mural endeavor.

Cromwell-Gapp provided the positive messaging for Hardy to paint on the walls. Phrases such as “You Belong Here,” “Home of the Patriots” and “Welcome to Ashby Elementary” now line the lobby halls. Cromwell-Gapp added that the students love the murals and Hardy has been asked to paint more murals in the school cafeteria over the summer.

“We’re thankful that Caleigh Hardy was able to give back to our school community that has served her as well over the years,” said Superintendent Brad Morgan. “I’m glad that her work can welcome students at the elementary school for years to come!”

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