One of the goals of the Global Education Team in Wareham is to encourage students to be more globally minded, and by looking at a group of fifth graders associated with the group, it seems to be working.

On Tuesday evening, a group of 15 or so current fifth graders at Wareham Middle School were back at Decas Elementary for the unveiling of a mural created by the students, all of whom are involved with the aforementioned team.

The students started the mural last school year with the help of art teacher Ellen Osbourn, and more recently completed it. The mural not only portrays some of the historic landmarks and geography from the town, but it also incorporates the town’s cultural diversity, among other images.

“All of the people living in Wareham are not just Americans,” said student Makayla Semiao. “All different kinds of people live in Wareham.”

Semiao and other students spoke at the ceremony, which was attended by parents, Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Shaver-Hood, Global Education Team leaders Henry St. Julien and Jessica Andrews, high school members of the team, among others.

The mural itself is now located in the foyer of the school, taking the place of some bookshelves that previously resided there.

Each student received an individual award for their participation on the mural, which designed and painted entirely by the group.

“We realized the cultural differences through Skyping (with students from Cape Verde),” said student Bridgid Irving, “and we wanted to highlight our colorful community.

A series of flags can be seen throughout the mural, which Irving said “represents all of the countries uniting” in Wareham.

“It was a really fun project,” said Osbourn.

Principal Donna Noonan, who is new to the school this year, said it’s helped familiarize her with the town.

“It helps me to understand the community—it’s important work that you did,” she said.

Other students involved in the mural not previously mentioned include: Hayden Turner, Aidan Cox, Annmarie Perry, Colton Rasmussen, Hayden Rinta, Allison Horton, Patrick Spenard, Amber Rossignol Andre Silvia, Landon Pascual, Anajae Council, Jakob Enright, Megan England, and Adrienne Padden.