The 2009 graduating class at MXA

June 9th is the last day of school for students in San Francisco Unified School District. This day is especially poignant for me this year, as I will be saying good bye to many people who have had a huge impact on my life over the past years.

First, I will be sad to say good-bye to the 5th grade class at Malcolm X Academy. I feel so fortunate that we were able to work together since most of them were in 2nd grade. I learned so much about the power of unconditional love and uncritical support for creative process by working so long with them. In fact, the trusting relationship I have with so many of them as a result of our work over the years is one of my most prized possessions. I’m pleased that we were able to work on the mural together. They made me so proud with their teamwork and best efforts. I’m glad that I will have their mural to look at next year, when they are disbursed to middle schools around the city.

My other long-term relationship with a student that ends with graduation is with T., a senior at Mission High. She has been painting with me since she was a freshman. It has been delightful to watch her grow from a goofy 9th grader to an intelligent, informed young woman. Along the way, I’ve watched her grow more confident in her creativity, which I hope will serve her well. I’m not sure if she is going to graduate; due to some really crappy family circumstances that were not in her control, she was not able to attend her classes on a regular basis. Regardless, I wish her well and I hope she will carry the lessons she learned from her creative process with her, just like I carry mine with me.

The finished mural hanging in the art room.