10-30-2025 1:54pm

North Plainfield Middle School Art Students to Paint Mural at NPFD

Donnella Tilery Editor

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Art and community are coming together in North Plainfield in a project that celebrates creativity and civic pride. Through a partnership between North Plainfield Middle School and the North Plainfield Fire Department (NPFD), one of the school’s art classes will soon paint a mural on the fire department’s entry foyer wall — a lasting symbol of connection between students and first responders.

The project grew out of a conversation within C-Platoon, one of NPFD’s fire shifts led by Captain Michael Ceccato. The team saw the mural as an opportunity to engage local students in a meaningful, hands-on experience while bringing new life to the department’s space. After developing the concept, they presented it to Principal Lake, who immediately supported the idea.

Firefighter/EMT Michael Kennedy played a key role in coordinating the effort, working closely with the school to bring the vision to life. Under the guidance of Art Teacher Lisa Faitoute and Alfred Hadinger, Supervisor of Fine, Practical, and Performing Arts, students visited the firehouse last week to gather inspiration and finalize their design.

The young artists were encouraged to include a fire emblem within their mural, blending artistic creativity with respect for the department’s mission. The project not only allows students to showcase their talent but also strengthens the bond between the borough’s youth and its public safety team.

Once completed, the mural will stand as a colorful tribute to North Plainfield’s community spirit — and to the partnership between education and service that continues to make the borough shine.