Highlands students create colorful community 'quilt' for library

Highlands Elementary second grader Stella Thiry slowly studied a box of markers before selecting her favorite colors.

Classmate Isabella Malinsky chose ones that reflected bright rainbow hues.

In a project aimed at fostering creativity and self-expression, the students collaborated on a colorful “quilt” to be displayed at the Community Library of Allegheny Valley.

Young students designed 168 paper squares to create what children’s librarian Susan Wilson called a beautiful example of teamwork.

“This activity helps build upon fine motor skills, visual and spatial awareness,” Wilson said.

It is a solid lesson in STEM concepts and critical thinking, she added.

The library, along Broadview Boulevard in Harrison, teams up with Highlands youngsters several times a year to boost literacy. Wilson visits classrooms for the Bite into Books program, reading to elementary students and doing related crafts.

Coloring the paper squares was part of a special project related to the library’s quilt show that is held each winter.

The tradition fills the site with bright quilts and lap throws in varying designs that include geometric, floral and whimsical.

The 24th annual contest drew 20 entries this year.

“That inspired me to include our younger patrons in making one big community quilt,” Wilson said.

Teacher Melissa McCurdy said the project allowed for classroom discussion with her second graders about designs, patterns, colors and special fabrics used to make cloth quilts.

“The students were given a square to design a pattern of their own,” McCurdy said. “My students had a lot of fun using the many different colors and being creative.”

In all, students from seven Highlands classes participated in the art project, making it wildly successful, Wilson said.

Library Director Suzy Ruskin said she was impressed with the youngsters’ imaginations.

“This project was really special, bringing our community together in a wonderful collaborative creative art project,” Ruskin said. “I am inspired by this quilt every time I see it in the library’s lobby.”