Harrison Elementary Brings History to Life
March 1, 2025 – At Harrison Elementary School, history didn’t just stay in textbooks – It came to life. For the fifth year in a row, students took part in the Black History Month Living Wax Museum, where third graders dressed up as important Black historical figures and shared their stories. The gym was filled with young versions of Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and many others, each ready to teach their classmates about the impact these figures had on the world.
Assistant Principal Kyle Powers explained why this event is so important.
“When we talk about Black History Month, people always mention names like Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King, and LeBron James,” he said. “But there are so many prominent individuals that we don’t know about. This is a fun way for students to learn — students teaching students is way better than a teacher talking to them.”
The event was a huge success for everyone who participated and was able to tour this makeshift wax museum. Students put on impressive performances, memorizing speeches and dressing up in detailed costumes. “They are so impressive,” Powers said. “Their outfits were cool, and some of them looked exactly like the real people.”
Some students went all out, adding dance moves and gestures to bring their characters to life. A student dressed as Michael Jackson had a whole routine, while others were so dedicated that they memorized their entire speeches without ever looking at their cue cards.
One moment stood out to Powers this year. “Martin Luther King is such a big figure in history. But this year, one of our students told me something I didn’t even know—his real name was actually Michael. He turned his computer to show me and I was like, ‘oh my gosh,” he laughed.
The students had plenty of fun stepping into their roles. During a break, a group dressed as famous athletes started a quick game of basketball. LeBron James and Kobe Bryant dribbled down the hall, with Jackie Robinson jumping in for a play. It was a perfect mix of learning and laughter.
As the event wrapped up, Powers expressed his excitement for the future. “They probably pulled it off the best this year,” he said proudly. “I can’t wait to see what they do next year.”
This year’s Black History Month project showed just how much young minds can accomplish when given the chance. With passion and creativity, these students proved that learning history can be powerful, meaningful, and fun.
