David Chaluh, owner and operator of Chick-fil-A on Spring Cypress and Grant roads, fifth from right, poses with CFISD fine arts educators and representatives from the fine arts department, after gifting 100 “First 100 Community Heroes” gift cards to be distributed to fine arts teachers throughout the district. The gift cards allow educators to receive free Chick-fil-A for a year. 

March 19, 2024—Representatives from Chick-fil-A on Spring Cypress and Grant roads visited the CFISD Visual and Performing Arts Center on March 6 to give back to fine arts educators throughout the district.

David Chaluh, owner and operator of Chick-fil-A on Spring Cypress and Grant roads, gave 100 “First 100 Community Heroes” gift cards to CFISD fine arts to distribute to teachers across the district. The “First 100 Community Heroes” is an initiative that allows Chick-fil-A owners and operators to choose 100 community members who will receive free Chick-fil-A for a year.

“As a former band student for seven years, I fell in love with fine arts,” Chaluh said. “Band taught me responsibility, ownership, accountability and taught me the power of being on time. To me, fine arts teachers really teach love and joy through performing. My vision for my restaurant is to spread joy and kindness. I feel like choosing fine arts teachers is very fitting for that reason. Plus, teachers deserve the world and I want to make sure they’re taken care of.”

A handful of CFISD fine arts teachers were present for the presentation of gift cards, including Gretchen Bell-Young, art teacher at Hairgrove Elementary School.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by our community for everything we do in the classroom,” Bell-Young said. “Art is my life and I love teaching the younger generation the fundamentals of art and how they can use that as they move through their lives.”

John Morrison, director of fine arts, shared his appreciation for Chaluh wanting to give back to fine arts teachers.

“We couldn’t be more thankful for the recent gift card donation made to the fine arts department from our community partners at the newest Chick-fil-A restaurant,” Morrison said. “We will be able to share with many of our fine arts teachers ‘Chick-fil-A for a year’ gift cards for the great work they do with their students.”