Amy Stemman

The Story Behind the Square...

"Learning doesn't stop at the classroom. This is something that Mary Wilson, principle and teacher at the MHARS school knew well because she made sure her students were exposed to the wide world surrounding their little town. My quilt square depicts Mary Wilson standing outside the school bus against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains.

One of the things that previous students remember fondly from their time spent at the school are the field trips they took to places like natural geysers and the Smoky Mountains. my quilt square is inspired by photograph from the collection of The Friends Committee which features Miss Wilson standing in front of the school bus with the mountains behind her. This image reminds us of the importance of carrying the pedagogy of our educational values outside the building and fully committing to teaching students no matter where you may find yourself. "

- Amy Stemman