This winter, MP3 families were invited to campus to see firsthand the incredible projects and student learning taking place. The first ever Share Fair highlighted work completed by students in every grade and subject. Students were so proud to showcase their learning for their families.

Part of the Share Fair included the “wax museum,” fourth grade literacy project. Students brought their learning to life in Glenda Elgersma’s class. Students researched different important figures throughout history. They collected their research, organized it and then displayed their findings on tri-fold boards.

The project didn’t end there. Students also dressed up as the historical figure and got into character. Each student in the fourth grade class was dressed as their historical figure.

As part of the Share Fair, families and students in other grades toured the “wax museum.” Visitors could ask questions and listen to narratives provided by the students in character. Historical figures that were featured included Anne Frank, Cleopatra, Helen Keller, Walt Disney, Albert Einstein, Franklin Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln and more.

The inspiration for this unique project was from MP3 fifth grader Caprice Scellick who wrote a persuasive essay last spring, outlining why a project like this would be beneficial to the school.

“When I thought of a topic to write for class I wanted it to be something fun but still educational so I combined both. Since there are so many different people in history it wouldn’t be hard to find a person to dress up as. Also, since students can pick whoever they want to do their report on that means they would be interested in the person they pick,” Caprice said.

Since this project was part of Elgersma’s literacy class, one goal of the project was to read biographies. Students selected a historical figure they wanted to read about and then completed a five paragraph report highlighting information about the historical person. This information was also displayed on tri-fold presentation boards.

Elgersma explained that during this project students covered reading, writing, speaking and social studies learning standards. It involved reading for understanding and comprehension with a focus on informational text. Students also wrote an informational piece following their research and reading of the biography.

Elgersma said they hope to do this project again and that younger students were already talking about who they might be next year.

“Overall, my biggest joy was seeing students excited about and engaging in their own learning! The project highlighted our commitments of belonging and learning. It also called attention to communication and support between school and families,” Elgersma said. “It definitely brought about a feeling of community and belonging both within and outside of the fourth grade class.”

Caprice expressed gratitude for the project being made a reality at MP3.

“It was cool to know that the essay I wrote made the whole event happen, and that people worked hard to make this project happen,” Caprice said.