Controversy Over Delay in School Mural

Slug: Delay in Art Mural

A mural planned for the school picnic area is behind schedule, and there
are multiple claims to the cause of the delay. The mural was supposed to Commented [1]: Just a little repetitive.

be completed by members of the Art Club, but has yet to begin.

Art Club members claimed that the delay is due to lack of provided funding,
but Principal Joe Baker denied this to be the reason for the delay.
Commented [2]: I would break this here to set up the first
quote. Keep a news lede two sentences or fewer.
Commented [3]: If you're going to start with the Art Club in
the story, make sure that they're the first part of the lede.

“The principal knew exactly what he was doing when he didn’t approve
additional funding for the mural,” Art Club president Kelly Jeffries said. “We
have plenty of students who want to paint and make this mural happen, but
he has not followed through.”

However, Principal Baker said no drawing or outline for the mural has been
provided to him, so he can not provide funding until that has been done. He
claimed that $300 was set aside for the creation of the mural, but in order
to prevent profane or inappropriate illustrations in the mural, he must see a
plan for the art.

“I have faith in my students,” Baker said. “But they need to treat this like a
professional contract. There is more than just money attached to this-our
school’s reputation and ideals are going to be present in this mural. We
need to know that our school’s best interests are on the line.”

Some Art Club members feel that arts do not receive enough attention by
Principal Baker, and that he is more invested in the betterment of computer
science courses. However, Jeffries has shared some values and ideas she
wants brought forth in the mural.
Commented [4]: I might think about cutting this. It's more
unsubstantiated rumor than anything. How do we know this to
be true?
“We’re hoping to incorporate all aspects of student life into the mural,”
Jeffries said. “ Like after school clubs, sports, classes,etc..”

The mural has not been canceled, and despite controversy, is still an
interest of Art Club members and Baker. It is intended to brighten up the
picnic area and to reflect school culture.

“Ultimately,” said Jeffries, “I just want to see the funding go through. We Commented [5]: I think this is a little too soon. I would add
this after the first sentence.
need more art students involved in these kinds of activities, and it shows
how much it means to the school to be involved in making it more
beautiful.”

Story by Willa Cornillie Commented [6]: Willa, this is SO good. You really crushed
this. I can't wait to get you started on real stories!

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