Milton Elementary gallery displays honor African American leaders

Milton Elementary School recently held a gallery walk to showcase students’ research projects on African American leaders in the local community.

In February, students invited six African American leaders to share information about their lives, careers and experiences. After learning about them through engaging conversations, each grade level put together wall displays throughout the building. Once they were complete, classmates and staff members toured the building to view the works.

“This is the second year we held the gallery walk to highlight African American leaders,” said Dr. Kristin Patton, MES literacy teacher. “Just as they did last year, students embraced this project and worked together to learn about their respective leaders. They put together thoughtful displays for each person that highlight their remarkable contributions.”

Kindergarten students created a bulletin board about Cape Henlopen High School Assistant Principal Tim Slade, sharing interesting facts and photos. Students interviewed Slade and learned about why he became an assistant principal, and what he loves most about being in that role at the high school.

First grade took part in a video chat with Craig Saffoe, a zookeeper who takes care of lions, tigers and other large cats at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. He and a colleague from the Fresno Chaffee Zoo also developed a group called AMZAP, the Association of Minority Zoo and Aquarium Professionals. It aims to support people of all colors who have a passion for working with animals.

Second-grade students interviewed Ernest Allen Jr., whom they see frequently in his role as a substitute custodian at Milton Elementary. He previously worked as a custodian at Rehoboth Elementary. He shared his experiences growing up in the Lewes area and attending William C. Jason Comprehensive High School, which was the first African American secondary school in Sussex County.

Third-graders participated in a dynamic presentation by Paul Williams, chief meteorologist at Coast TV. Williams shared his passion for science and weather with the students, teaching them about high pressure, low pressure, warm fronts and cold fronts. He also provided insights into all the research he conducts daily to help provide the most accurate weather predictions he can for the community.

Fourth-grade students interviewed local entrepreneur Preston Russell. He told students about his experience attending Goldey-Beacom College, where he played collegiate basketball, and how he made his dreams of becoming a restaurant owner a reality. He has worked in the real estate industry for over 17 years and is the proud founder of the Changing Mains food truck and Zava Café. His newest restaurant, Lago Asian Cuisine and Sushi Bar, will be opening soon in downtown Milton.

Fifth-graders enjoyed their chance to talk with Bill Collick, who is known for his contributions in both the community and the Cape school district. Collick collaborated with Marcos Salaverria of Historic Lewes, who provided primary source photos and videos that showcased the Lewes community where Collick was raised. Students learned about Collick’s family, his successful coaching career, his extensive experience volunteering with various organizations and his current role as an elected member of the Cape Henlopen School District Board of Education.

“This project has quickly become both a fun and educational experience for the students and staff,” said Clara Conn, Milton Elementary principal. “We are grateful to Dr. Patton for spearheading the gallery walk again this year and look forward to continuing this tradition for future years.”