Fifth Graders Bring History to Life

Fifth graders at Marion G. Vedder Elementary School transformed their auditorium into a vibrant living wax museum on Dec. 11 as part of a culminating social studies project.
In preparation for the event, students selected influential historical figures to research, diving into their lives, accomplishments and lasting impact on the world. Drawing on their research, they each created an informational display board featuring key facts, timelines, photographs and important contributions made by their chosen figure.

To bring their learning to life, students dressed in character — donning costumes, props and accessories that reflected their historical person. When guests arrived, the museum “came alive.” Visitors prompted the historical figures to recite a short, memorized speech highlighting their achievements and significance.

Parents, staff members and classmates circulated through the museum, meeting figures such as inventors, civil rights leaders, musicians, sports figures, artists and pioneers. The interactive format helped students strengthen their public speaking and research skills while making history engaging and memorable.