Tile by Tile: Concluding a Mosaic Opinion

A Mosaic to Welcome Us

1When visitors walk into Hillcrest Elementary, the first thing they see is a long, plain wall of gray bricks. I believe our students should cover that wall with a mosaic. A mosaic is a picture made from many small pieces of tile, glass, or stone set into cement. A mosaic made by students would brighten the entrance, bring the whole school together, and last for many years.

2First, a mosaic would make the entrance bright and welcoming. Right now, the wall is so dull that most people walk past it without looking, and some visitors have even asked whether the school is closed. A mosaic can use tiles in almost every color, and shiny pieces catch the light from the front doors. A picture of the green hills and tall pine trees around our town would tell every visitor that this is a cheerful place to learn.

3Second, making a mosaic would bring the whole school together. A large mosaic is built from hundreds of small pieces, so every student could set at least one tile. Kindergartners could press in large squares, while older students could cut smaller tiles to fit around curves. Our art teacher, Mr. Lindqvist, says each class could take turns working on one section during art time. When it was finished, every student could point to the wall and say, "I helped make that."

4Finally, a mosaic would last for a very long time. Tile does not fade in sunlight the way many paints do, and it can be wiped clean with soap and water. Our school painted a sign by the bus loop a few years ago, and its colors have already started to peel. People have been making mosaics for thousands of years, and some very old mosaics can be seen in museums and buildings today. A mosaic we make now could greet students who have not even been born yet.