At Metea Valley High School, the start of fall isn’t marked by the changing leaves; it’s marked by chalk: pastels, club logos, inspiring messages, and students laughing over pizza, and learning about each other’s interests.
“So far, I would describe it as a learning purpose to learn about other people’s clubs, and you also get to design your own club,” freshman Justice Stephens said.
Students and staff agree that Chalk the Walk is more than sidewalk sketches; it’s a chance to showcase student organizations and spark creativity. The annual chalk the walk event isn’t just about art; it’s about connection.
“I love being creative, and being able to kind of show it where everyone gets to see it when they walk in,” senior Kathryn Linnert said. “I get to show off and talk with other members of my clubs. So it’s just a really nice experience to connect with people in my club and be able to share my club with other people.”
Even staff find that it’s a great way for students to socialize and build their school spirit.
“It’s a super informal, casual way for people to come out and advertise their clubs, but also just have a good time,” social studies and English teacher Robert Tesmond said. “It’s a good opportunity for people to have some fellowship, bounce off each other’s energy, and just create more of a community.”
At Metea, the annual chalk the walk event isn’t just about art; it’s about connecting with people you have never met before.
It’s also a great way to meet new people, like, there [are] people in Rho Kappa I didn’t know and that I just met today!” Senior Ariana Azaruddin said.
Overall, students say that Chalk the Walk is just a fun event to participate in.
“It’s been really fun,” Azaruddin said. “Every year I’ve done it, it’s good to get your creative process going.”
“I like to help out with different clubs and hang out with my friends,” junior Brynn Ellsworth said.
When asked why she decided to participate in the event, she says, “Just for fun, I like being a part of it.”
This year, the freshman student government took on the task of planning our 2025 Chalk the Walk. This included everything from inviting club sponsors, to ensuring there’s enough chalk and pizza for everyone.
Metea staff also feels that there is great value in the Chalk the Walk experience.
“I love seeing my students outside the classroom, just getting involved and having fun,” English teacher Karen Aigner said. “It’s festive, it’s social, and it’s something they remember.”
Despite Metea Valley being a relatively young school, Chalk the Walk has become a beloved tradition that helps build identity and spirit. For the school, it’s a sign that all the clubs and activities are off and running, and it’s a colorful kickoff to a busy and exciting year, as well as Homecoming week.
“Honestly, when I think of the start of Homecoming, I think of Chalk the Walk,” social Studies teacher Susan Fuhrer said.“It’s one of the most well-attended Homecoming events,” she said. “It’s simple, it’s fun, and it gets students outside, connecting with each other.”
For so many students and staff, Chalk the Walk is about more than drawings or free pizza. It gives clubs across Metea a chance to showcase their identities and reach new members. It’s also a rare opportunity to see so many different students, from every grade and every corner of the school, gathered in the same place. Chalk the Walk is all about connection, school spirit, and the simple joy of sharing our interests with one another.
