HES Students Learn About Black History During Project

Published March 8, 2022

In honor of Black History Month, fifth graders at Heritage Elementary spent much of February learning about Black historical figures who have impacted the world.

Each student selected someone who has made a positive impact on society. They researched the person's early life, their character traits, what they're famous for, their struggles and where they are now. In addition to the research, the students create a three-dimensional representation of their figure using a Pringles can.

Characters included everyone from Frederick Douglas and Mae Jemison to Jessie Owens and Simone Biles.

"I enjoyed learning who my person was and how they changed our world today," said HES student Delaney Gibson. "I loved getting to present it and show my class how my character helped us."

Fifth-grade teacher Alexandra Martorano says the project pushes students to go above and beyond in their research and learn about historical figures who may not be well-known.

"I liked the Character in a Can because I loved the fact that students were able to be creative," said HES student Luna Collins. "We are able to teach others about important people in our history."