West Tampa Elementary Students Surprised With Mural On School

TAMPA, FL — Community partners helped transform the side of West Tampa Elementary School with a mural depicting the school's motto: "Work hard, be nice," and the school's mascot.

Students gathered to see it for the first time last week and celebrate its completion with Tampa Mayor Jane Castor.

The project was made possible by The Tampa Foundation, a nonprofit that inspires the community through positive public art.

Wax & Hive is the artist of the new mural. Sponsors include Bob Smith of PAR Inc., Jorge Brea of Symphonic, Tim Moore of Diamond View and Ed Ellsasser of Prime Group Insurance.

Principal Kevin Kastner said the idea stemmed from the district's CEOs in Schools initiative. West Tampa Elementary was paired with Ed Ellsasser, who is one of the mural's sponsors and was integral in getting the Tampa Foundation involved in this project.