‘Journey of a Brewster Bear’ Depicted in New Mural

Students and staff cut the ribbon to officially debut the new mural on the corridor that connects C.V. Starr and H.H. Wells schools.

Brewster students, teachers, administrators, and PTA members got together April 6 for a ribbon-cutting and the unveiling of a new mural – “Journey of a Brewster Bear” – at the intermediate and middle school.

What began as a simple idea to bring color to the walls and create a meaningful give-back opportunity for students grew into a large-scale collaborative mural connecting C.V. Starr Intermediate School and H.H. Wells Middle School.

Designed by art teachers Megan Nacliero and Danielle Michielini, the mural fills the entire hallway that bridges the two schools, turning the space into the visual story of a Brewster student’s journey.

The project was a joint effort, as fifth-graders from C.V. Starr and eighth-grade art students from H.H. Wells helped paint the mural. The project was made possible through the support of the schools’ shared parent-teacher organization, which provided all of the supplies needed to bring the artwork to life.

The mural follows the path of a “Brewster Bear” – a student from John F. Kennedy Elementary School through C.V. Starr and H.H. Wells, and on to graduation at Brewster High School. The bear mascot grows and changes throughout the scene, surrounded by nature imagery that evolves from grass and flowers to a large tree symbolizing the many opportunities Brewster students experience, including academics, arts, sports, and theater.

A colorful winding pathway inspired by a board game carries the story through the mural, reflecting the fun and unpredictable journey of learning. Painted pillars represent the values that support the schools, alongside messages of pride, such as “We Are Wells” and “CV Starrs Rising.”

“My favorite feature is the tree with the books and balls and musical notes,” said Casi Prokaski.

“I painted the purple sky,” added Alexa Boyarsky.

“The Brewster mountains are my favorite part,” noted Dominick Sedito.

Together, hundreds of students helped create a mural that celebrates growth, community, and the shared journey through Brewster schools.