MLK Christian Academy Interactive Wax Museum
Martin Luther King's Christian Academy brought history to life with their annual Black History celebration, featuring an interactive live wax museum that captivated students, parents, and community members alike. Students from Pre-K through 8th grade participated in this creative and educational event that honored the contributions of African Americans throughout history.
The wax museum was designed by teacher Lisa Hansom and Principal Deloris Newman, who worked closely with students to research, prepare costumes, and develop presentations for their chosen historical figures. Each student stood in character at their station, coming to "life" when visitors pressed an imaginary button, delivering rehearsed speeches about their figure's achievements and legacy.
The younger students -- Pre-K through early elementary -- portrayed beloved and iconic figures including Rosa Parks, the mother of the civil rights movement; Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer who broke barriers in professional sports; and Garrett Morgan, the inventor of the traffic signal and gas mask.
Older students tackled more complex historical figures with remarkable poise and depth. Their portrayals included Anna Knight, a pioneering Seventh-day Adventist missionary and educator; Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice; Ida B. Wells, the fearless journalist and anti-lynching activist; Matthew Henson, the Arctic explorer who co-discovered the North Pole; Zora Neale Hurston, the acclaimed author and anthropologist; Colin Kaepernick, the athlete and social justice advocate; Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States; Jesse Jackson, the civil rights leader and political figure; and Dr. E.E. Cleveland, the legendary Adventist evangelist.
The quality of the presentations and the dedication of the students drew the attention of local media, bringing positive coverage to the school and its commitment to excellence in education. The wax museum stands as a shining example of how Adventist education integrates creativity, history, and character development.
