By Li Wen Su, PR Specialist
In a vibrant fusion of education, community, and creativity, a two-year partnership between Alief ISD and METRO culminated in unveiling four stunning bus shelter art installations created by high school students and inspired by their school culture and community values.
The initiative began in November 2023 when Fine Arts lead teacher, Dr. Keri Reynolds, connected with METRO representatives Brad Kaplan and Luis Garcia. What followed was a districtwide arts-based competition that challenged students from Elsik, Hastings, Kerr, and Taylor High Schools to express their school pride through visual art.
“Partnering with METRO has been a wonderful opportunity for the high school art students across Alief,” said Dr. Reynolds. “Through this partnership, students engaged in powerful real-world learning experiences and were empowered to represent their schools through art. This partnership showcases the lasting impacts of the visual arts and their ability to foster critical thinking, inspire others, and enhance the Alief community!”
Throughout the process, students worked closely with METRO staff, including graphic designers and public engagement professionals. They participated in on-campus visits, mentorship sessions, and field trips to METRO headquarters, gaining valuable insights into the intersection of art, design, and public service.
After a rigorous judging process, winners were selected from each participating high school.
Elsik High School: Ashleen Calderón
Kerr High School: Kimberly Cáceres
Hastings High School: Justin Caxaj
Taylor High School: Leslie Yáñez and Andrea Sánchez
Their designs were professionally reimagined and installed in the bus shelters near their campuses. The final artworks were unveiled in April during a districtwide celebration attended by students, educators, and METRO staff.
“METRO is proud to collaborate with Alief ISD on a project that blends art and public transit in such a meaningful way,” said Luis Garcia, METRO Senior Public Engagement Representative. “The bus shelters are now part of the fabric of the Alief community – functional, vibrant, and expressive thanks to the work of the talented Alief ISD students.”
For students like Kimberly Caceres of Kerr High School, the experience went far beyond winning a competition. “What I loved about participating in the Metro Art Bus Shelter project is that I got the chance to express and demonstrate what Kerr means to me,” she said. “Projects like these give students opportunities to put their art out there, show their creativity, and connect with more people.”
Elsik High School student Ashleen Calderon echoed the sense of pride and purpose. “I am honored for the opportunity to leave a long-lasting mark at Elsik High School through my artwork,” she said. “It is truly a privilege to leave behind something meaningful that reflects our school spirit and community.”
With these permanent installations now enriching the everyday lives of Alief residents, the collaboration between Alief ISD and METRO stands as a model for how public partnerships can support youth, foster creativity, and beautify communities—one bus shelter at a time.
