Alden Terrace School's Annual 'If These Walls Could Speak’ Project
Alden Terrace School once again transformed its hallways through the annual “If These Walls Could Speak” project, a schoolwide initiative that served as the culminating activity of the school’s Black History Month celebration. This collaborative project strengthens scholars’ research, creativity and public speaking skills while introducing them to influential Black figures from both history and modern times.
Each grade level explored a different theme, such as inventors, athletes, artists, musicians, authors, actors, educators and politicians/activists. Classes chose someone connected to their assigned theme and researched that individual’s life and achievements. Using what they learned, students designed vibrant hallway displays outside their classrooms, featuring portraits, key facts and meaningful quotes. Among the many significant figures highlighted were Maya Angelou, Alfred Cralle, Kelly Miller and Serena Williams. To help students recognize inspiration within their own community, a fourth grade class chose to highlight their teacher, Mr. Lewis, who is also an actor in community theater.
On March 5 and 6, the school hosted a gallery walk for visitors to explore the exhibits and learn about the individuals who shaped history. This year, the event also included two new interactive elements: live student presentations and the opportunity for families to attend in person. While the displays were created collaboratively, select students spoke to visitors about their chosen figure, sharing insights from their research and strengthening their public speaking skills in the process.
