WEST ORANGE, NJ – Redwood and Kelly Elementary Schools ended Black History Month in the West Orange School District on a high note with their Living Wax Museums, starring famous figures portrayed by talented third grade students.

Students selected a well-known – or not – Black American who impacted history. They studied, researched, and prepared a presentation. It was a posterboard, a book, a diorama, sculpture, or other creative means of visual information. They then dressed in costume and gave a short presentation on their characters when visitors pressed a red button, bringing them "to life."

The results were impressive. Parents, faculty members, and fellow students filled the Redwood and Kelly gyms to hear about superstars like Michael Jackson, George Washington Carver, Kobe Bryant, and Saquon Barkley, and lesser-known figures Bessie Coleman, Mary Eliza Mahoney, and James Weiss. Redwood also held an evening “Art Walk” with inspired creations by students.

The Living Wax Museum serves as an interactive educational tool for students and families, who learn about the important contributions of Black people to American history. Students themselves gain confidence in writing, public speaking, and art. As parents and students enjoyed the event, everyone came away knowing a lot more about Black Americans who made such an impact on history.

SEE ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THE REDWOOD LIVING WAX MUSEUM AND ART WALK HERE.

BOE member Eric Stevenson with wife Rasheba and son Joshua (aka Matthew Henson)

Art Show

SEE ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THE KELLY LIVING WAX MUSEUM HERE.

Principal David Marion with students