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Celebrating Achievements & Excellence During Black History Month

Throughout the month of February, in a variety of methods and settings, students at Palmetto Christian Academy fostered vibrant celebrations learning about Black History Month, weaving it seamlessly into various academic disciplines. Middle School Math Teacher Sasha Heiney, who took part in leading this emphasis, explains how students were able to celebrate Black History Month in her class. 

"My 7th and 8th grade students embarked on a mini-project highlighting black mathematicians who made profound impacts on the world of mathematics. Students selected a person of their choice, researched them and learned about that person’s biography and achievements in the field of mathematics, and then made a poster to share their findings."

Students say this was a meaningful learning experience. Will Chandler was blown away learning about David Blackwell, “David Blackwell was brilliant and an insightful mathematician. It was interesting to learn how he contributed to probability theory and information theory.” Millie Ralph also gained appreciation for black mathematicians, “I learned about Morgan Ray who gave women a greater voice within the society among African American mathematicians.”

Kara Karnes, a history teacher at PCA, expresses delight in integrating Black History Month into her classes. She led students through a study encouraging students to dive into both familiar and lesser-known stories of contributions of Black Americans. This project not only informed but kindled excitement among students as they continually discovered new historical figures.

Elle Hinson emphasized the broader perspective gained, recognizing the diverse achievements of African Americans and their enduring impact on the fabric of America: “In this project we were able to read and learn about the many diverse achievements of different African Americans and the fundamental contributions and impact they had on America.”

Palmetto Christian Academy's commitment to such interdisciplinary, engaging initiatives during Black History Month ensures a holistic and enriching educational experience for its students. PCA remains committed to honoring the past and actively shaping compassionate and informed Christian leaders for the future.

A Walk Through History: Fourth Grade Presents Wax Museum

Jeremiah 29:11
In this verse, God assures His people of His good and purposeful plans for their lives. It reminds us that our accomplishments are intricately woven into His greater plan, filled with hope and a future that He has designed specifically for us.

This past Friday, the Welcome Center was filled with fourth grade students dressed as queens, baseball players, heroes of war, famous actresses, and everyone in between. The annual Living Wax Museum event, which has been a tradition for more than 20 years at PCA, was in full swing. 

Each year students choose a person in history who made an impact on society, to bring back to life for the day. They read a biography on the person, create a detailed tri-fold board showing facts about their person's life, and then present their findings to their class. After that, the fun really begins as students bring their research to life dressing up as their historical figure and presenting their work to PCA students, staff, and parents by way of the Living Wax Museum. Students had to hold very still, like a person made of wax, as visitors walked by to take in their displays and learn more about each person. 

Anna Turner, who portrayed Florence Nightingale said “I enjoyed when people buzzed by and I started talking about who I was, kind of like performing.”

Kara McKenzie Hoffman said Anneli Drummond-Hay inspired her because she loves horses and animals.

Declan Goulette, who was Edson Arantes do Nascimento, talked about his successful career very enthusiastically.

Isaac Cox was pleased to present John Madden’s achievements as a great coach and player, and sports commentator. 

4th Grade Teacher Mrs. Charity Light says this is such a wonderful, in-depth learning experience for the students. “The living wax museum was a way for fourth grade students to learn about historical figures and their contribution to society. Students were responsible for reading a biography on their chosen historical figure, filling out notes, writing an informative summary, and presenting a speech to their peers.” 

Students did an exemplary job at presenting their figures at the 2024 Living Wax Museum!