An informal “unveiling” of a new Flag Mural at King Middle School took place Nov. 29  during a family multicultural potluck at the school.

The colorful mural, covering the length of an entire hallway along the front corridor of the school, was designed and painted by parent volunteer Lucy Bergen, a local muralist and sign painter, with the help of King students. The mural is a patchwork of flags that spell out the phrase: “WE ARE THE FUTURE.” 

Several months in the making, its design was inspired by the astounding number of nationalities represented at King Middle School.  A survey sent out to students in the spring of 2023 revealed that over 70 countries were represented at King – countries where either  students themselves were born or from which their parents originated.

Bergen sketched the words on the corridor wall with a patchwork of flags embedded, and over the next several months, students helped to paint the mural. Bergen and a small group of adult volunteers polished up the details. 

“There have been countless hours spent in both the planning and painting phases of this project, which we hope will give our diverse student body a feeling of pride and inclusion in their school, with a deep nod to their roots,” Bergen said. “The mural is approaching completion and we are extremely proud to share it with the community!”