I have to say, one of the coolest aspects of my job is the unexpected surprises that come my way. I experienced another one last week. While taking photos of the Soares Invitational at Hunt Elementary School on Friday, someone invited me to look in on the wax museum on campus. Now, that sounded intriguing.

Once I had finished with the scheduled photos I headed over to check it out. What I discovered was two classrooms, one second grade and one third grade, across the hall from one another, with students participating in a unique biography assignment.

Each student was instructed to research a famous person of their choice and then construct a demonstration using a tri-fold display board with facts, a timeline and a poem they had written about the person they selected. Students wore costumes portraying their subjects standing or sitting next to the displays on their desks, waiting as still as wax figures for visitors to attend their museum. When a visitor pushed the start button on the display, the student actors came alive and gave a prepared speech about their subjects before “returning to wax” once again.

Very impressive! Keep in mind, these are second- and third-grade students giving clear and concise speeches at the push of a button. Amazing, and very interesting. I learned facts about famous people I hadn’t known before like information about William Shakespeare’s wife and kids and that Florence Nightingale lived to the age of 90. There were astronauts, physicians, presidents, authors, scientists, entertainers, hall of famers…the list goes on, all fascinating and well represented.

Most impressive was the confidence of these young students as they stepped into character and began to give their speeches. I remember getting similar assignments in school but it was only to write a paper, and maybe present it in front of the class. This was such a clever way to make the assignment interesting, not only for the student doing the research but for all who learned from them as well. And what a fantastic way to incorporate public speaking skills into the assignment – what a great experience at such a young age! I can only imagine the wonderful things that will materialize for them in their future education.

Teacher Jennifer Sexton said it was the first year they attempted this project and she is encouraged by the results. The students exceeded her expectations and she looks forward to the next one being even bigger and better.

A wax museum at Hunt Elementary School – good job kids! Thanks for catching me on campus and inviting me to experience your extraordinary work!

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