Adrian students are “Small but Mighty”

By KELSI KERSHNER

When the holidays draw near, it seems like we start thinking about gifts. Except for many times it’s our own list of gifts that we seem to start making out and thinking about. We tend to forget about what the season is truly about. It’s supposed to be about giving back, not just receiving.

Many times in our lives we feel like we would love to do more, help more, give more; however, sometimes it can be hard to figure out what exactly needs to be done or where to start. Many times a person will rise above expectations and soar if they are just given the opportunity to do so. That is exactly what happened with Adrian’s fourth grade students this past holiday.

During Christmas break I traveled with a small group to Texas/Mexico. The group that I was with visited a couple of children’s homes and worked on a church at the dump in Matamoros, Mexico. Food was bought for these places, and blankets, clothing, toys and other things were passed out at this dump area. I wanted to provide my 4th grade students with an opportunity to take part in this if they so chose.

Then my students were given a choice. It was entirely up to them. Instead of a normal class party gift exchange, they could use the money that they would normally spend on a small toy or bring in one of the items to make shoe boxes for the children in Mexico. Their other choice was to go ahead and do the normal gift exchange, or they could do both. When it came down to it, they unanimously wanted to help and there were a few who also still wanted to do the gift exchange. My students were so excited to be a part of this opportunity!!! The other two fourth grade classes also heard about what our class was doing and jumped on board. When it was all said and done, the Adrian fourth grade students were able to send 22 shoe boxes out of the 66 that went to the children in Mexico!!

Adrian’s 4th grade students were so enthused about what they were a part of. Their selflessness and giving attitude is what this season is all about. There is no tangible gift that could ever replace the gift of love. These students are a shining example of this. I knew that if given this opportunity that they would exceed expectations. They may be young, and they may be small, but what these fourth grade students chose to do this Christmas was mighty!

In conclusion, Will Sears expressed with the utmost sincerity: “It’s kinda sad that these kids don’t have any place to eat or live. Thank you to Ms. Kershner for helping them in Mexico and letting us help, too.”

Right: Kelsi Kershner is pictured with four very happy kids who opened presents from Adrian 4th graders.

Far right: At the Casa Hogar, children are thrilled with their Christmas surprises from Adrian students and staff.