When Ariel Jacinto-Perez picks up a crochet hook, he isn’t just making chickens; he’s making connections.

Jacinto-Perez, a fourth grader at Wright City West Elementary, has turned the earliest makings of a hobby into a way to share happiness with those around him.

“I saw a video of people making animals, and I wanted to try it,” Jacinto-Perez said. “I had yarn and wanted to do it, but I wasn't sure how, so my mom (Catalina) helped me try it for the first time. Each day, I would practice again and again until I successfully made one. I kept doing it because I love making them and people get happy when they see them. I love seeing people happy. It is nice that they think I am talented and like my chickens.”

That ‘homework’ was something Jacinto-Perez eventually brought to school.

His crocheted chickens not only made an appearance to be shown off to his classmates, but Jacinto-Perez also got the chance to teach his class about crocheting.

“I like to share the happiness with my friends,” Jacinto-Perez said. “It was fun because people were asking me to show them something I know how to do. When they saw them and really liked them, it was cool how they appreciated them and my hard work.” 

Valerie Matyasi, who is Jacinto-Perez’s teacher, said that her student is not only incredibly talented but also eager to be inclusive with classmates when sharing his talent.

That’s just the kind of young man Jacinto-Perez is, the teacher said.

“He has been amazing at inviting others into his talent and is eager to share his skills with those around him,” Matyasi said. “He’s learning how to foster creativity in the classroom, and I’m grateful to be part of his journey. I have no doubt he will do great things.”

Matyasi added that Jacinto-Perez’s skill falls well into line with something on the horizon for the fourth graders at West.

With an upcoming art show and Young Entrepreneur Day, Jacinto-Perez’s effort is not only tantalizing, but it’s also timely.

She said she spoke with West Principal Sara Meadows to include Jacinto-Perez and his classmates in the upcoming event.

“I reached out to Mrs. Meadows to share how interested my students are in showcasing their work, from bracelets to 3D-printed items,” Matyasi said. “She was able to share several outlets where they can display their skills, such as the upcoming Art Show and Entrepreneur Day. I especially wanted to highlight Ariel.

“All of my students have been incredibly excited about entrepreneurship, and I’ve used that excitement as a chance to teach them what it means to put themselves out into the community,” Matyasi continued. “That mindset has helped create a positive, supportive classroom environment. One fun example is this ‘little chickens’ project, which has sparked a lot of shared joy and connection among the students, thanks to Ariel.” 

While the shared experience with his classmates has meant the world to Jacinto-Perez, the chance to branch out even further with his creations is appealing, he said.

“I would think it would be really cool and fun to share some happiness with other people beyond my friends,” he said.