Students dress up as historical and cultural figures
Anderson Elementary was buzzing with excitement yesterday as students transformed into some of the world’s most influential figures for second grade’s Living Wax Museum. Families and staff walked through hallways lined with “icons” such as Albert Einstein, Cristiano Ronaldo, Selena Quintanilla, Neil Armstrong, and Princess Diana.
The Living Wax Museum began last year thanks to a $10,000 Arlington ISD Education Foundation grant awarded to Anderson librarian Christina Stewart. The grant funded a new collection of biographies, giving students access to engaging texts about historical and pop culture figures.
“The students work very hard researching their historical or pop culture figure, writing a speech as that person, creating a visual display, and dressing up in costume as their person,” Stewart said.
The hands-on learning experience helps blend reading, writing, research, and public speaking.
Leading up to the event, students spent weeks immersing themselves in the lives of their chosen figures. They researched biographies, created posters, rehearsed their lines, and pulled together costumes that made their characters instantly recognizable. By the time families arrived at the event, each student was prepared to “come to life” at the press of a button.
“They revised their writing, strengthened their speaking skills, and rehearsed until they felt prepared and confident,” second-grade team lead Tammy Owens said. “I am incredibly proud of the dedication, perseverance, and responsibility our students have shown.”
With two successful years behind them, Anderson’s Living Wax Museum has continued to inspire curiosity, build academic skills, and allow students to shine in front of their community.
The project is a powerful example of how innovative teaching, strong collaboration, and support from the Arlington ISD Education Foundation create unforgettable learning experiences for students.