Several new additions to the Quitman Junior High School atrium were unveiled to the public during a special dedication ceremony on August 13.

A large mural, created by local artist Erica Fry, was one of the main attractions. The academically- themed mural spans the entire length of one wall, and took months to paint, Fry said.

Two memorial benches were also unveiled. One bench bears a plaque honoring the late Delbert Ballard, a coach, teacher, and administrator at the Quitman Independent School District for more than 50 years. The other bench was dedicated to Jacob Coats, a Quitman Junior High School student who passed away suddenly in January. The families of both Delbert Ballard and Jacob Coats were present at the ceremony.

A rock fountain now graces the entrance of the junior high school atrium, which was also designed by Fry. The creation of the fountain was made possible by Debbie Skinner and Tim Yeager of Texas Farm Bureau Insurance.

Svetra Panky, a Quitman Junior High School teacher and advisor for the student council, presented the improvements she had made to the atrium garden over the summer to the small crowd gathered at the ceremony. She said she had worked hard to maintain the garden, as well as add new plants and other decorations.

Quitman Junior High School Principal Garland Willis said he hoped the atrium could be a place of quiet refl ection and relaxation not only for students, but for the greater Quitman community.