This story was first seen on January 9, 2026, on NBC 5, FOX 4, and Telemundo.
A blank wall can hold a lot of potential. At Cigarroa Elementary, it now reflects something even more powerful: the school’s shared values and vision.
Through a collaborative vision mural at Cigarroa Elementary, students helped transform an everyday campus space into a visible message of pride, belonging, and purpose. Because students helped shape the mural, they now see their voices reflected on campus every day.
A shared vision, made visible
Strong schools grow through more than academics alone. They also grow through culture, connection, and student voice.
United to Learn’s School Culture and Well-Being team partnered with Cigarroa campus leadership to define the values that matter most to the school community. Next, a Brinley Ash Designs muralist helped translate those values into a vibrant visual story.
More than 400 Cigarroa students helped bring the mural to life. In addition, high school volunteers from Alcuin School joined the campus to assist with the hands-on painting day.
Student voice at the center
For students, this mural is more than art on a wall. It’s a daily reminder that their ideas matter.
As a result, students see their school values reinforced in a place they walk past every day. That sense of ownership supports a positive school culture and helps students feel connected, confident, and ready to learn.
A community story, shared citywide
The mural’s impact reached beyond campus walls. Local media helped amplify the story, showing how student voice and community collaboration strengthen Dallas ISD schools.
The project was featured by NBC 5, Fox 4, and Telemundo. Watch the coverage below.
Bridging schools and community
Projects like the Cigarroa vision mural reflect United to Learn’s role as a bridge, uniting students, educators, and community partners to strengthen school culture and well-being.
Most importantly, these investments help campuses become places where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to achieve their full potential. At Cigarroa Elementary, that commitment now lives on the walls—bright, bold, and full of possibility.
If you would like to get involved with a project like this vision mural, you can learn more about United to Learn’s campus enhancement initiatives here.