As the school counselor at West Middlesex High School, I am proud to say that I have had the privilege of working alongside two outstanding students – Junior, Shawn Hoffman and Senior, Cora Jones – through the Midwestern IU IV Extreme Leadership Program this year. Shawn and Cora were selected by our High School Principal, Mrs. Simmons, and myself based on the leadership qualities they consistently demonstrate each day within our school community.

The Extreme Leadership Program brings together students from Mercer, Butler, and Lawrence Counties to collaborate on ways to improve their schools and communities. Throughout the program, Shawn and Cora met weekly to discuss how they could make a meaningful and lasting impact at West Middlesex High School. From those conversations, “Project Refresh” was created.

Project Refresh is a student-led initiative designed to bring new life into West Middlesex High School by creating a brighter, more welcoming environment through fresh paint, student artwork, and meaningful murals throughout the building. Shawn and Cora conducted extensive research showing that positive and visually engaging school environments can improve student learning, reduce stress, and boost morale for both students and staff.

Their vision includes repainting the school hallways with clean, light colors to create a brighter atmosphere while incorporating student-created murals that promote school pride and reflect the subjects taught throughout each hallway.

Although our school already displays wonderful student-led artwork, these students hope to expand creativity throughout the entire building and transform our hallways into spaces that bring joy to our students even on some challenging days.

Shawn and Cora recently presented their project to local superintendents and 17 of our school clubs. They have received approval from the school board to begin fundraising efforts within the community. Their long-term goal is to create a project that will continue for years to come, even after they graduate. Future plans include partnering with local businesses to sponsor ceiling tiles and involving school clubs and graduating senior classes in creating artwork that leaves a lasting legacy within the school.

Now, these students are asking for the support of our community to help bring Project Refresh to life. Please take a minute to listen to what they have to say in the video. 

Funds raised will go directly toward paint, materials, supplies, and other resources needed to transform our school into a place students and staff can feel proud of every day. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help support this meaningful student-driven initiative.

Donations can be made through the school website under the Guidance Department’s “Extreme Leadership” link. Cash or checks can also be brought to West Middlesex High School and made payable to “Extreme Leadership.”

Thank you for supporting our students, their vision, and their commitment to making a positive impact on our Big Red school community.