Clark-Shawnee partners with Springfield Township for Paint the Plow

As snow falls this season, Clark-Shawnee students will see their original design displayed on the roadways. The Clark-Shawnee Local School District has teamed up with Springfield Township for the inaugural Paint the Plow Program. 

This initiative, created by Springfield Township, aims to promote winter driving safety while providing local students the opportunity to showcase their artwork.

Springfield Township invited Shawnee High School students to submit designs promoting winter driving safety in the spring of 2024. Over 50 students submitted designs to be considered and the Township selected the design created by Darcey Willmeth.

“The students were excited for the opportunity to create artwork that would be displayed in such a fun and unusual way,” said Mrs. Brigitte Williams, Art Teacher at Shawnee High School. “Students partnered with the Township to create a community art piece, while also using their creative and collaborative skills to plan, develop, then bring to life their final designs.”

The snowplow blade was delivered in the fall of 2024 and students and staff created a plan to bring Darcey’s design to life. From start to finish, the painting process took approximately 10 hours. The design was painted by high school students Darcey Willmeth, Abby Reardon, and Vivian Ranger-DeWell with final touches by Art Teachers Mrs. Brigitte Williams and Mrs. Catherine Holt.

Students began by cleaning the blade thoroughly and lightly sanding its surface. They then applied a primer coat of white paint, followed by layers of swirling snow and ice designs. The final steps included carefully painting the letters and the Clark-Shawnee logo.

"All three artists were thrilled to bring Darcey's artwork to life," said Williams. “They were happy to be a part of such a positive community project.”

In addition to the design and creative element of the project, Mrs. Williams used Paint the Plow as a teaching moment for students to understand the dynamic between a client and an artist along with the value of community collaboration.

Like in most client-based careers, the client submitted a design request and the artist used their unique talents and creative perspective to make their ideas a reality. This often takes multiple versions and conversations with peers to accurately depict the client’s vision. 

Through this project, students saw how community collaboration enhances an artist’s creative abilities while encouraging them to use their skills for the benefit of the community. They learned that through collaboration, an artist can grow personally, professionally, and socially as they work with others toward a common goal. 

"We are incredibly grateful to Springfield Township and the Clark-Shawnee Administration for their support throughout this entire process. Their support of our district’s Fine Art program and their encouragement of students' work is truly appreciated,” said Mrs. Williams.

Springfield Township Trustees invited the artists to their meeting for special recognition on November 18, 2024. Following the recognition, students started the township meeting by leading those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance.