STEAM at Dr. King Students Become Activists through Living Museum

“Hi, I’m Harriet Tubman, and I led over 300 slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad.”
 
STEAM at Dr. King third grader Marley Kirkland was in character. She went on, as she rocked in her rocking chair, grey wig atop her head, relaying the life of Harriet Tubman.
 
“I never knew she started helping people when she was six years old, or how many people she helped,” Marley shared. “I love watching movies about her on Clever! I’m very excited because the little kids coming through will get to learn from me.”
 
“I’m the first Black president,” a classmate, portraying former President Barack Obama, began. A parade of younger Dr. King students made their way through the room, listening intently to the mini history lessons.
 
Third graders had just completed a unit on activist biographies, and the African American Living History Museum served as the unit’s culminating project. Through the lessons, students not only researched past activists; they also learned how studying our history can help us create change – as well as how they can work to create change in their own community.
 
“They work so hard, and every year, it’s a joy to see it come together,” third grade teacher Saida Balume reflected. “They were calling each other by their ‘character’ names for the last two weeks! They get so into it. The kids really remember what they’ve learned. If you ask the fifth graders, they still remember their characters from two years ago and will tell you all about them. That’s what makes it so impactful – that’s the best part.”
 
A woman walked through, pressing the light in front of each student and listening patiently while they “came to life” as their character. She chuckled as she watched her nephew, Muhammad Ali, press his boxing gloves together.

“He’s so in character!” she smiled, impressed.
 
We’re so proud of the STEAM at Dr. King third graders for their hard work, research, and wonderful presentation in bringing historical figures to life!