A Lesson In Learning

By Michael Gresham

Shy demeanor quickly turned to joyous celebration as dozens of underprivileged Helen Edwards Early Childhood Center children received an early Christmas surprise Friday at Kaufman High School.

Continuing a nearly two decade tradition, Kaufman High School's Family Career and Community Leaders of America students headed up this year's effort, which benefited 65 children.

“This is our sixth year to organize the event,” said Christy Lucas, FCCLA teacher. “The students are really pumped about it and really excited to do something for the children.”

Staff at Helen Edwards determines which children will take part in the event then each KHS class adopts at least one child.

“The class receives a wish list from the child then the students go out and buy the gifts,” Lucas said. “When the child shows up, he is treated to snacks, a celebration and a bunch of gifts such as clothes and toys that he or she may not have received otherwise.”

For the high school's FCCLA students, the annual event is special.

“It makes you feel good to know that you're getting to help out people who are less fortunate,” said Kimberly Maldanado, a senior at KHS.

The magnitude of the moment isn't lost on classmate Karolann Grimsley.

“It makes me cry because all those children are getting a gift that they may not have gotten otherwise,” she said. “It's really touching.”

And while it takes weeks of organization and a campus-wide effort, KHS junior and FCCLA president Barbara Gonzales said it's all worth it.

“To be there when they child gets that gift and help put a smile on their face, that makes it all worth it to me,” Gonzales said.

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