Danville students embrace Black history with special project

DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — Where can you see George Washington Carver, Jackie Robinson, Michael Jackson, and Ray Charles all in the same room? In honor of Black History Month, an elementary school class in Danville gave special presentations on some history-making icons.

On Wednesday, Mark Denman Elementary School’s fourth grade students got to talk about some of the worlds biggest athletes, historians and authors. It’s through their Gallery of Heroes project, where every year, the class presents their favorite African-American figures who helped shape history.

Danville Fire Lt. reflects on city’s first Black fire station

Teacher Lisa Palinski said the fourth-graders researched their characters for three weeks to prepare for the presentation.

“Ralph Ellison is an author that wrote the books, ‘Invisible Man’ and ‘Shadow and Act,'” student Terrence Joseph said.

“I picked Jackie Robinson because I read a little bit about him and he never gave up on his dreams,” fellow student Camri Brooks said.

Many students used their wardrobe to pay tribute to the individuals they researched. Ava Robb dressed as George Washington Carver.

“He created a lot of things. I just like how creative he was, because I’m just like him. I like to create a lot of things,” Robb said.

How NAACP ACT-SO is uplifting the next generation in Central IL

Palinski said in past years, they’ve held the event in the cafeteria just for students and faculty. This time, they put a twist on it, inviting families and the rest of the community.

“This year, we really wanted to elevate it; make it really special,” Palinski said. “I just think it’s great because, you know, we want the parents to be a part of their kid’s educational journey.”

In return, the kids were just as invested.

“One of my students told me that she was her character. She said, ‘I am Lena Horne,'” Palinski said.

From Michael Jackson, to Misty Copeland, to Muhammad Ali — the fourth grade class said this project was one of their favorites.

“I really love reading,” Joseph said.

Next year’s plan is to keep expanding the event.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.