Indianapolis, Indiana – At Rousseau McClellan School 91, A Montessori School in Indianapolis, something remarkable is happening inside the art classroom. Among brushes, paints, and paper, a quiet but joyful revolution is taking place—one led not by a teacher or a student, but by a goose. Her name is Mona Geesa, and she’s quickly become the school’s most unexpected star.
What began as a lighthearted summer purchase by art teacher Ashley Lowe Brown has transformed into a living, breathing symbol of creativity, curiosity, and laughter. Mona isn’t just decoration—she’s a part of the classroom culture, and every student knows it. Each week, the beloved porch goose greets children in a new outfit, from tiny scarves to whimsical costumes. The ritual has become so popular that students rush into class to see what Mona’s wearing next, leaving behind notes, trinkets, and even drawings in her honor.
“I didn’t realize that Mona wouldn’t just sit on my porch. Instead, she’d transform my classroom,” said Brown, who has worked with Indianapolis Public Schools for more than 15 years, beginning as a paraprofessional supporting students on the autism spectrum. “From the very first day of school, she’s brought joy, laughter, and a whole lot of goose-sized personality into the art room.”
Brown’s teaching philosophy has always centered on connection—finding the small sparks that inspire students to express themselves. Mona, in many ways, became that spark. A former Rousseau McClellan student herself, and the daughter of IPS educators, Brown knows that great teaching often emerges from creativity and heart rather than strict structure. The goose, with her rotating wardrobe and playful presence, naturally draws students into moments of wonder and shared laughter.
“Students from all over the school look forward to seeing what outfit Mona is wearing each week, and they can’t wait to say hello or even bring her tiny gifts,” Brown said. “Their excitement has made our classroom a brighter, happier space—and honestly, it’s given me a new joy in teaching. Watching my students laugh, smile, and wonder, ‘what will Mona do next?’ has been the highlight of this year.”
Mona’s influence has spread far beyond the art room walls. Walk through Rousseau McClellan School 91 on any given morning, and you’ll overhear students whispering about her latest look or guessing what adventure she might embark on next. She’s become a point of connection between grade levels and classrooms—something that ties the whole school together in a shared story.
Principal Kathy Lause sees Mona’s impact every day. “We love Mona Geesa! She has quickly become a beloved part of our school community,” Lause said. “Students love to visit her during art class and before school, and everyone enjoys contributing to the stories about her daily adventures. From the excitement of seeing what outfit she’ll wear next to the joy and laughter she brings to students and staff alike, Mona has truly taken root at Rousseau McClellan 91. We’re grateful she’s decided to roost with us each day.”
The sense of belonging that Mona brings may be one of her greatest lessons. In an age where screens often dominate attention, Mona invites children to slow down and notice the small, delightful details around them. She teaches observation, patience, and collaboration—values that align perfectly with Montessori principles.
But Mona is not merely a mascot. In Brown’s hands, she’s a teaching tool, a muse, and sometimes, a mischievous prankster. Brown loves to surprise her students by hiding Mona’s picture in unexpected places—puzzles, worksheets, or even bulletin boards. “The kids never know when Mona will pop up next,” Brown said with a laugh. “That little mystery has become one of their favorite parts of art class.”
Her classroom has become a world of storytelling, with Mona at its center. Brown turns each week’s outfit into an opportunity for narrative exploration. Students imagine where Mona might be headed, what she’s doing, and what adventures she might have along the way. Over time, these creative exercises have grown into full-fledged projects that strengthen students’ artistic voices.
“I’ve created many slide shows to document her adventures, such as her trips, her hobbies, and even her famous friendships,” Brown said. “Yes, Mona and Taylor Swift are basically besties. The students eagerly watch each slideshow to see where Mona’s been and what she’s been up to, and they often add their own ideas for her next big adventure. They really want her to visit Paris!”
Through these lighthearted activities, Brown is cultivating skills that go beyond the art curriculum. Observation, storytelling, and problem-solving are all woven into Mona’s presence. Students learn to look carefully, think critically, and express their ideas in new ways—all while laughing and bonding over their shared affection for a plastic goose in fancy attire.
There’s a sense of innocence and magic in how Mona’s story has unfolded. What started as a decorative porch ornament has evolved into a cherished classroom companion—one that brings joy to hundreds of children each week. Teachers from other departments have even joined in the fun, stopping by the art room to see Mona’s latest ensemble or drop off a miniature gift.
“Sometimes the best teaching tools don’t come from a supply catalog. They come with feathers, pranks, and a whole lot of personality,” Brown said. “Mona Geesa is proof that a little creativity can turn a classroom into a place where learning feels like an adventure, and every lesson begins with a smile. Ok, and a few honks.”
The ripple effect of Mona’s presence goes deeper than laughter. She has become a living metaphor for what education can be when imagination leads the way—a reminder that joy and curiosity are essential parts of learning. Every outfit, every hidden image, and every giggle that follows carries a message: creativity belongs everywhere, not just in art.
For the students at Rousseau McClellan, Mona represents consistency in a world that often changes too fast. Every week, she’s there—steady, cheerful, and dressed for her next adventure. And for Brown, she’s a daily reminder of why she became a teacher in the first place: to nurture not just skill, but spirit.
The story of Mona Geesa might sound simple, but its impact is profound. Within one classroom, a teacher’s playful idea has turned into something much greater—a shared symbol of imagination, belonging, and discovery. As Mona continues to “roost” in the art room, she does more than brighten the walls; she strengthens the threads that tie a school community together.
At Rousseau McClellan School 91, art isn’t confined to paint or paper anymore. It walks, honks, and dresses up for the occasion. And with every giggle and every curious glance, Mona Geesa proves that even the smallest spark of creativity—yes, even one shaped like a goose—can grow wings and fly.
