Elementary School Mural Memorializes Teacher Who Battled Cancer
Photo of the “Mehan Trail” mural in the Schuylerville Elementary School building via the district’s website. The mural was painted by 5th graders in honor of a former teacher who succumbed to cancer in 2023.
CHUYLERVILLE — Schuylerville Elementary School students have painted a mural in their school’s hallway in memory of Dave Mehan, a teacher who passed away in 2023 after battling cancer.
The mural, named “Mehan Trail,” is filled with images of nature, reading, kindness, and peace; images that are reflective of Mehan’s legacy. During his tenure of almost 26 years, Mehan was known as a devoted educator who had a unique ability to connect with students and staff in a meaningful way.
Shortly after Mehan’s passing, Schuylerville faculty and staff members wrote reflections of their experiences with the beloved teacher. One faculty member wrote:
“When I was going through my own cancer battle in 2016, he helped to organize my fundraiser. When he himself became sick, I could not believe the strength and determination he had. He has fought so hard this past year, traveling to whatever doctor he needed to, never giving up hope that he would beat it. I saw him for the last time a week ago and although exhausted and in pain, he was still cracking jokes and being the sarcastic Dave we all know and love.”