Students from seven educational institutions in the region will return to classes in a new environment
 
Paraná, February 9, 2024 – A refreshing change awaits students returning to classes at municipal schools participating in the Klabin Sowing Education Program. The walls of these institutions came to life and gained personality,  infused with graffiti depicting themes of sustainability that celebrate the ecosystem of the region.  The artistic endeavor serves as a special tribute to schools in Telêmaco Borba, Imbaú, and Ortigueira, which stood out in the pedagogical training promoted by the Klabin Sowing Education Award.

The creative process involved collaboration between Bruno Cruz, a local artist from Telêmaco Borba, elementary school students, parents and teachers, who collectively conceptualized ideas and brought them to life through paint.   The artworks took shape over the course of last year and were concluded in December.

The graffiti showcases local flora and fauna, featuring species such as the maned wolf, puma, toucan and Araucaria tree, emblematic of the Atlantic Forest and the Campos Gerais region.  Additionally, popular tourist attractions like the Telêmaco Borba Aerial Tramway, known as the Bondinho, were depicted as well. Through this initiative, the Klabin Sowing Education program aims to provide students with a more comprehensive understanding of the environmental and cultural heritage of the region, fostering teamwork and a sense of responsibility for school property – topics of paramount importance in the educational curriculum.

Uilson Paiva, manager of Social Responsibility and Community Relations at Klabin, underscores the importance of the community participation in the initiative. "This serves to acknowledge the exceptional performance of schools in the program, while nurturing a sense of pride in belonging to this territory.  At the same time, we engage children and communities as active participants,  fostering learning through hands-on experiences," he emphasized.

Strategically placed near school playgrounds, some of the graffiti installations offer children an educational backdrop for their playtime. According to Sergio José de Souza, Principal of the Antônio Ferreira Ruppel School in Ortigueira, these themes will also be integrated into classroom discussions. "We will reinforce the importance of environmental education in our curriculum, whether in the classroom or in our daily lives," he explained.

For Adriana Sokulski Paes, manager of the Tia Lú Municipal Center for Childhood Education in Imbaú, the impact extends beyond the school walls, fostering a sense of inclusion for parents and guardians.  "We've realized a dream with these beautiful murals. Parents have expressed their admiration for the artwork, which now serves as a welcoming beacon at our childcare center.”

This initiative has been equally enriching for the local artist behind the murals.  "Witnessing the enthusiasm and dedication of all involved in this artistic endeavor has been immensely gratifying. Now, they can proudly claim ownership of these artworks," he said.

The Klabin Sowing Education program was conceived to empower educators and administrators in their pursuit of excellence in education. In collaboration with the Municipal Education Departments of 20 municipalities, managers receive specialized training provided by educational consultants. Since 2019, the program has been dedicated to recognizing exemplary professionals who inspire others with their innovative and inclusive educational practices.