By Chelsey Brunelle, Program Manager at Turnaround Arts: California
A recent mural created by students at Echo Valley Elementary is a powerful example of what happens when we create the conditions for students to express themselves, work together, and see themselves as artists.
This spring, Echo Valley Elementary in North Monterey County partnered with the Arts Council for Monterey County to create something truly special: a 6th Grade Legacy Mural. As part of the school’s strategic arts plan to help build an inclusive culture and climate, Echo Valley 6th-grade students worked side by side with local muralist Paul Richmond to dream up and design a mural that reflects their stories, memories, and hopes. It wasn’t just about painting a mural. It was about honoring where they’ve been and leaving something meaningful behind as they transition to middle school.
The mural became a canvas not just for creativity—but for connection, teamwork, and identity.
One student, Christina, said, “I saw that I could work with other people, like teamwork. There is no other way other than working with each other [to complete the mural].”
That spirit of collaboration was echoed again and again. In fact, 100% of the students we interviewed said this project helped them see themselves as artists. Think about that: every single one of them walked away with a stronger sense of creative identity and self-worth.
This is the heart of Turnaround Arts: California’s mission.
When we talk about expanding access to the arts, we’re talking about unlocking human potential. We’re talking about giving young people the tools and opportunities to tell their stories, build community, and leave a mark—literally and figuratively—that says: I was here. I belong. I made something that matters.
This mural is more than a beautiful piece of public art. It’s a testament to what’s possible when we invest in students and invest in the belief that the arts have the power to transform schools from the inside out.
Research shows that the arts contribute to creating a positive school environment: arts engagement can help build strong bonds between students, teachers, and parents, provides students with a sense of purpose and shared ownership, and contributes to positive attendance rates.
In our 2025 survey of teachers at Turnaround Arts partner schools, 94% reported that their school’s atmosphere and culture celebrates creativity and artistic achievement.
About Naishian Rainflower Richards: Naishian Rainflower Richards is a member of the Western Shoshone tribe and a descendant of the Northern California tribes of the Hupa, Yurok, and Redwood Creek. She shares indigenous arts in the Hoopa community, previously serving as a Cultural Consultant for the 
The process started with students creating their own sketches to share their ideas of what they’d like to see represented in the mural. Liliflor reviewed student ideas and identified common themes. She then created the overall design for the art piece.
