Pine Island Elementary art teacher Nichole Pichon with the \u201cOur Art Community\u201d mural. PHOTO PROVIDEF<\/p>\n
Bright smiles, fresh school supplies and high energy filled the halls of Pine Island Elementary on Tuesday, Aug. 11, as students and staff officially kicked off the 2026-2027 school year.<\/p>\n
Thanks to the hard work of the dedicated P.I.E. faculty and staff, the classrooms and school grounds were in tip-top shape, offering a warm and welcoming environment for returning Eagles and new faces alike. Teachers were eager to open their doors, greet their new classes, and jump right into a year full of learning and growth.<\/p>\n
A Masterpiece of Community<\/p>\n
To mark the beginning of the year, art teacher Nichole Pichon led the entire student body in a special, collaborative opening art unit. Every single student at P.I.E. created a unique self-portrait. Joined together, these individual works of art form a massive mural titled\u00a0\u201cOur Art Community,\u201d\u00a0which is now proudly displayed on the cafeteria stage.<\/p>\n
Dr. Galbreath, the school\u2019s principal, shared\u00a0\u201cThis creative artwork was a fantastic way to start the school year. It reminds us all that we are one united school community.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Visitors to the school can take a look at this colorful masterpiece whenever they are in the cafeteria. Beyond its visual charm, the mural serves as a daily visual reminder of P.I.E.\u2019s core mission and vision: to be\u00a0kind, caring, respectful, responsible, and safe, while encouraging every student to try their best in everything they do.<\/p>\n
School officials report, \u201cWith a vibrant new mural setting the tone and a community united behind its core values, one thing is certain-it\u2019s going to be a fantastic school year at Pine Island Elementary!\u201d<\/p>\n
Pine Island Elementary is at 5360 Ridgewood Drive, just east of The Center, Bokeelia. For additional information about the school, please visit https:\/\/pie.leeschools.net\/<\/a> or call (239) 283-0505<\/p>\n