Sisters Strong T-shirts. photo by Charlie Kanzig
Sisters Strong T-shirts. photo by Charlie Kanzig
The leadership class at Sisters Middle School (SMS) wanted to make a difference in the community, especially in light of the coronavirus pandemic, and came up with a way to do so while underscoring a message of strength and togetherness.

Led by teacher Jeff Schiedler, the class decided to design and market “Sisters Strong” T-shirts as a symbol of unity in tough times.

SMS student Jack Turpen got busy working on a design. He took a hard look at the Outlaw horse logo for ideas.

“I had always tried to look for hidden symbols in the Sisters Outlaws logo, however, I had never noticed any clear ones, except for the faint shape of an arm in the middle of the horse head,” he said. “After Mr. Schiedler brought this project up, I immediately thought of how I could put such a powerful design together while keeping the theme and spirit of the original logo.”

Holly Davis, who will be the SMS student body president next year, has also worked hard to make this project get off the ground.

Schiedler said, “Both Holly and Jack bring an immense amount of passion for helping our school culture, our community belonging, and those in need. They are creative, hardworking, and compassionate. It has been such a joy working with them this year, and I look forward to being a part of their continued leadership next year. They are leaders set out to bring hope and belong to our school and community.”

Under Schiedler’s guidance, the shirts are being produced by hand, which gives them flexibility of being able to produce what is needed. He says they will continue the project as long as there is interest in the community.

Turpen is happy to be doing something positive.

“I’m so glad to see that my designs are helping my community in these difficult times. I think we all sometimes need a reminder to stay strong, especially when it feels like the world is changing so much.”

Information on how to purchase shirts and stickers can be found at www.sistersstrong.org. Shirts can be purchased directly at Paulina Springs Books and Canyon Creek Pottery in Sisters.