For the past three years, Ms.Kellie Clark has partnered with Cuero Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on a heartfelt service-learning project known as “Art Has Heart.” The initiative teaches students an important lesson that extends far beyond the classroom — that the greatest joy during the holidays comes not from receiving, but from giving to others.
This year, the project grew even more meaningful thanks to support from the Cuero ISD Education Foundation. Ms. Clark applied for and received a grant to purchase sturdy, insulated 32-ounce cups with lids and straws, along with boxes of tissues for each of the center’s 94 residents.
With supplies in hand, students got to work creating personalized gifts. Each tissue box was transformed into a colorful “Valentine Village,” carefully designed to brighten residents’ rooms. The insulated cups were handpainted and customized with each resident’s first name, along with an original theme thoughtfully chosen by the student artist.
The project combined creativity with compassion, as students considered the personalities and preferences of the residents while designing each piece.
Cuero Junior High art students stand with a few residents receiving their personalized gifts. Students pictured along with their teacher Ms. Kellie Clark are Aryana Donovan, 7th grade, Evelyn Nezhad, 7th grade, Da’Kelvion Johnson, 6th grade, Marian Edwards, 7th grade, Carson Castillo, 7th grade. Residents pictured are Lorain Gonzales, Kristan Rush, Mary Jane Debee, along with CNRC Activity Director Jennifer Wilson. Photo by Myranda Trentman- Shaffer See the E- edition of this paper for more photos
On Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, several student representatives from the art program visited Cuero Nursing and Rehabilitation Center to personally deliver and present the gifts. The visit provided students with the opportunity to connect with residents and witness firsthand the impact of their generosity.
Through Art Has Heart, Ms. Clark continues to instill in her students a powerful message: art can do more than decorate — it can uplift, connect and spread love throughout the community.
