Lakeville Students Create a Living Wax Museum to Showcase History

Lakeville Elementary School Hosts First Living Wax Museum, Bringing History to Life

On May 8, 2025, Lakeville Elementary School in Great Neck, New York, launched its inaugural Living Wax Museum, where third-grade students captivated parents and faculty by embodying historical figures from various fields. This innovative event served not only as a platform for creative expression but also as an engaging educational experience that highlighted the importance of history in a unique and interactive manner.

Students from various classrooms—including those of teachers Ms. Mino, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Weiss, Ms. Chai, Ms. Smith, and Ms. Baker—immersed themselves in extensive research about notable personalities from history. They prepared detailed informational displays, designed creative costumes, and rehearsed biographical speeches to ensure they accurately portrayed their selected figures. This preparation was pivotal in transforming the traditionally passive learning experience into an active historical exploration.

As part of the event, students donned costumes that represented iconic figures across different spheres—such as athletes, inventors, musicians, scientists, and political leaders. Posing as lifelike statues in the school’s auditorium, they awaited the moment when parents and faculty members could engage with them by pressing a button at each exhibit. This interactive feature prompted the students to “come to life,” stepping away from their statue-like poses to deliver spirited presentations about their historical counterparts.

For many families, the Living Wax Museum provided a unique opportunity to connect with educational content outside of the conventional classroom setting. It created an environment where parents could witness firsthand the enthusiasm and creativity of their children while also discussing historical contexts that may have been overlooked in regular curriculum.

Among the highlights of the event was a student portraying Marie Curie, who shared knowledge about Curie’s pioneering research in radioactivity, while another student dressed as George Washington Carver showcased the agricultural advancements made by the renowned scientist and inventor. Presentations such as these not only engaged the audience but also facilitated discussions about the legacies these historical figures left behind.

The event at Lakeville Elementary School underscores the effectiveness of experiential learning approaches in education. By integrating creativity with historical inquiry, educators are able to foster a deeper understanding of and appreciation for history among young students. As schools continue to explore innovative teaching methods, initiatives like the Living Wax Museum may serve as a model for engaging students in meaningful ways.