Sag Harbor Elementary School once again brought history to life with its 30^th annual Wax Museum, a beloved tradition and milestone for fifth grade students.

The interdisciplinary project invites students to step into the shoes of notable figures, exploring stories of perseverance, impact and achievement. After weeks of research and preparation, students presented their work in a live exhibition open to the school community, where they embodied their chosen figures by standing poised until visitors prompted them to “come to life” and share their stories.

In preparation for the event, students completed a range of creative and academic tasks, including original artwork, digital slideshows and detailed research. A central component of the project is the written placard, which challenges students to synthesize information from multiple sources into a clear, concise summary. This process encourages higher-level thinking as students analyze key moments and contributions that define their figure’s legacy.

“This project is a true rite of passage for our fifth graders,” said Liz Pellicano, fifth grade teacher. “It allows them to dive deeply into the life of someone who made a difference, while building critical thinking skills and confidence. Seeing them bring these figures to life for the community is incredibly rewarding.”