Horizon 2025 - Flipbook - Page 31
SHELTON’S “WHO WE ARE” ART INSTALLATION
In 2025, the Shelton School unveiled an extraordinary art
installation in Charger blue — an illuminated 27-foot-wide
by 10-foot-tall “S” composed of custom-made and found
objects. Displayed prominently in the dining hall, the piece
celebrates Shelton’s four educational pillars: Academics,
Athletics, Fine Arts and STEM. Embedded within the
assemblage are Montessori materials and STEM elements,
representing Shelton’s unique multisensory approach. The
overarching message: These pillars work together to create
a dynamic, well-rounded learning environment that reflects
the heart of the Shelton experience.
A Collaborative Artistic Vision
The project was a true collaborative effort. Kellie Sirna,
Shelton parent and founder of Studio 11 Design, led the
design execution, helping bring the vision to life as a
thoughtful reflection of Shelton’s vibrant and supportive
community. Middle School art teacher Kathleen Goree and
Shelton parent Aphrodite Paulos designed the initial layout,
while Christy O’Neal, an in-house artist at Lou Verne by
Studio 11 Design, brought the vision to life with her artistic
expertise. The Aphrodite and Sam Paulos Foundation
played a key role in making the project possible with a
generous contribution.
From left: Kellie Sirna, Shelton parent and founder of Studio 11 Design;
Middle School Visual Arts Teacher Kathleen Goree; Shelton parent
Aphrodite Paulos of the Aphrodite and Sam Paulos Foundation; and
Shelton Executive Director Suzanne Stell.
“This installation is deeply personal to me. Shelton isn’t
just where our children learn; it’s a community we pour our
hearts into,” said Sirna. “We are not just supporters. We
are mothers who are grateful for the opportunity to play a
part in its ongoing legacy. Looking ahead to Shelton’s 50th
anniversary in 2025-2026, this piece serves as a foundation
for future traditions, and I’m especially proud that our sons
will be part of that celebration, continuing the legacy we’ve
helped shape.”
The Meaning Behind the Artwork
Shelton Executive Director Suzanne Stell
said the artwork embodies Shelton’s
commitment to making a difference in
the lives of students who learn differently.
“Every day, it reminds students that their
unique ways of learning are strengths
to be celebrated and that confidence,
perseverance and a love for learning open
endless possibilities.”
From left: Shelton eighth-grader Reid Sirna, Kellie Sirna, Shelton parent and founder of Studio 11
Design; Middle School Visual Arts Teacher Kathleen Goree, Shelton 11th-grader Richard Goree;
Shelton parent Aphrodite Paulos of the Aphrodite and Sam Paulos Foundation, and Shelton
eighth-grader Dimitri Paulos.
SHELTON SCHOOL
THE HORIZON
NOVEMBER 2025
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