The fourth-grade classes at Edna Travis Elementary learned about Black history in a meaningful and memorable way. During a recent grade-wide project, each student was assigned a historical Black figure whose contributions helped shape our world. From Duke Ellington and Jesse Owens to Bessie Coleman and Ruby Bridges, students got to learn about a wide variety of people and their impact on history.  

Fourth-grade teacher Michelle Beauprez has led this project for the past five years and says it’s one she always looks forward to. 

“The fourth graders have spent many hours researching and preparing their presentations,” she shared. “I’m so proud of the hard work they’ve done.” 

One fourth grader proudly began her presentation by saying, “Lyda Newman is the reason you have a hairbrush today!” Lyda Newman was a remarkable inventor who patented an improved hairbrush design featuring synthetic bristles. 

For many students, the project began with little knowledge of the person they were assigned. By the end of the project, they were confidently discussing their figure’s contributions to American and world history, personal background, and interesting facts.  

“The best thing I learned about Condoleezza Rice is that she started college at the age of 15,” one student shared. While she isn’t sure she’ll head to college quite that early, she is excited about her future. “My dream job is to be a biology or math teacher,” she said. 

Students had the opportunity to showcase their work to the entire Travis school community and families during a special event. Way to go, Travis fourth graders!