Project Title: STEAM Mural for the JMS Innovation Lab

Project Description:
Columbia College student Amanda Szydlowski designed and painted a stunning mural for the Jefferson Middle School Innovation Lab that celebrates the integration of art into STEM—transforming STEM into STEAM. Her mural uses vibrant, imaginative imagery to represent science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics, visually reminding students that creativity is at the heart of all innovation.

Art plays a crucial role in STEAM education by encouraging students to think beyond formulas and code. It pushes them to approach problems with imagination, see connections across disciplines, and communicate their ideas visually and creatively. By blending technical skills with artistic expression, students develop the kind of flexible thinking that fuels real-world breakthroughs.

This mural serves not only as a piece of artwork but also as a daily inspiration to students, showing them that creativity and design are as essential as logic and analysis. For all kids—whether they see themselves as artists, scientists, builders, or inventors—STEAM highlights the truth that innovation thrives when creativity and knowledge work hand-in-hand.