Students at Wallace Elementary School in Kelso got a colorful reminder of the power of creativity when their crayon and marker drawings turned into wearable art. Each first grader’s winter hat design, crafted before the holiday break, was transformed into a real-life hat — complete with their chosen colors, patterns, and embellishments.

According to KGW’s coverage, the project brought the students together for a cheerful surprise unveiling, with teachers and parents celebrating the mix of imagination and community spirit. The initiative also reflected a growing trend in local schools of connecting creative classroom work to hands-on outcomes — a practical engagement strategy known to strengthen student confidence and participation.

For Wallace Elementary, it wasn’t just about keeping warm this winter; it was about showing kids that their ideas can become something tangible and unique. The finished hats highlighted the individuality of each student and gave them a shared sense of accomplishment to start the new year.