Greensburg Salem middle school celebrates summer with 'chalk the walk'

The sidewalk outside Greensburg Salem Middle School on Main Street is a colorful celebration of summer.

It’s tradition on the last week of school for students and teachers to “chalk the walk,” scrawling pictures and encouraging messages outside, said art teacher Brenda Tarris.

Tarris organizes the event with fellow art teacher Darryl Audia.

Chalk the walk is one of several traditions, including a kickball game and shaved ice truck, that give students the chance to unwind and celebrate the end of another school year, Tarris said.

“It’s a way to have our classes outside, and still have them engaged in some art-centered activities,” she said.

The chalk drawings include positive messages like “Creativity takes courage” and “We must all make the choice between what is right and what is easy.”

“We always get a lot of positive feedback, because Mr. Audia will have his students include positive and encouraging quotes, and a lot of teachers like to see that at the end of the school year,” Tarris said.