SAN ANTONIO – At Cooper Academy, art transcends mere creativity; it serves as a transformative medium for students to express themselves, confront personal challenges, and commemorate lives lost in the tragic floods of July 2025 that claimed 119 victims in Kerr County, Texas.
This year, students at the San Antonio Independent School District’s specialized campus are crafting a unique Día de los Muertos ofrenda. Rather than a conventional altar, students are painting rocks inscribed with the names and ages of the victims, arranging them to mimic the flowing waters of the Guadalupe River. This poignant display also features colors and imagery that honor the Camp Mystic community and the lives that were abruptly cut short.
“The kids decided they wanted to add the ages too because that was important to see,” noted art teacher Jolene Navarro, emphasizing the project’s significance in acknowledging individual stories behind the tragedy.
For senior Alexandria Barron-Rico, the initiative resonates on a deeply personal level. “Especially writing the names and then the age, it really puts into perspective that nothing is promised,” she shared. “It’s really sad to see they had a whole life ahead of them.” Her reflections underscore the emotional weight of their artistic endeavor.
Cooper Academy provides a supportive environment for students who have faced difficulties in traditional educational settings, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. With a modest enrollment of fewer than 400 students and art classes averaging 10 to 15 participants, the academy promotes a more personalized learning experience.
Navarro highlighted the transformative power of art in helping students connect with one another, stating, “We see kids that weren’t schooled, they didn’t feel like they belonged, and now they feel like they belong. And it’s through art that they’re able to find that connection.”
Barron-Rico, who joined Cooper Academy in February, described her experience as life-changing. “I’ve been to a couple [of schools], I’ve been around four. And I never felt so cared for,” she explained. “They care. They want us to graduate. And they want us to move forward.” This sentiment reflects the nurturing atmosphere that defines Cooper Academy.
For Barron-Rico, painting has evolved into a sanctuary for her thoughts. “It quiets my mind,” she stated. “All I want to do is paint. And it really just brings peace to me.”
Looking ahead, Barron-Rico aspires to graduate in December 2026 and pursue a college degree in business administration. Her confidence shines through in her outlook on the future. “I’m gonna be successful. I will be successful,” she affirmed, embodying the hope and potential fostered at Cooper Academy.
