The Waterloo Middle School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) unveiled a vibrant new mural in the school’s courtyard last week.

The celebration was attended by several district leaders including Middle School Principal Ms. Christal Kent, Assistant Middle School Principal Mr. Vincent Vitale, Superintendent of Schools Mrs. Sarah Cupelli, Secondary Executive Principal Mrs. Katie Tucker, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Mrs. Christine Taylor, and other invited guests.

The mural was the vision of Anna Gray, who served as a NJHS member during her 8th grade year.

“We wanted to make something that people could look at and appreciate,” said Gray. She and her NJHS peers decided to base the mural on heroes that students could look up to. The final design incorporates the likenesses of Abraham Lincoln, Michael Jordan, Amelia Earhart, and more.

Work on the mural began in March 2025 under the guidance of the club’s advisors, Mrs. Hope Brown and Mr. Joe Demetro. 23 NJHS members met after school throughout the year to sketch and paint on the brick facade of the courtyard’s western wall. 

“It was great for them to celebrate the completion of such a big project,” said Mrs. Brown. “I can’t wait to see what our current members come up with next.”

The Waterloo chapter of the NJHS was formed during the 2022-23 school year. It consists of 7th and 8th graders who are dedicated to elevating the school's commitment to the values of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.