Milton Elementary Hosts Second Annual Gallery Walk Honoring African American Leaders

On Friday, March 7, Milton Elementary held a gallery walk, showcasing their month-long research projects on African American leaders in our community.  

Throughout the month of February, students invited six African American leaders to share information with them about their lives, careers, and experiences. After having engaging conversations and learning about each of the individuals, the grade levels each put together wall displays throughout the building. Once the displays were complete, classmates and staff members held a gallery style through, touring the building to learning about each of the leaders,

“This is the second year we held the gallery walk to highlight African American leaders,” said Dr. Kristin Patton. “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 created a bulletin board sharing interesting facts, and photos of Cape Henlopen High School Assistant Principal, Tim Slade. Students interviewed Mr. Slade where they learned more about why he became an assistant principal, and what he loves most about being in that role at the high school.  

First grade zoomed with Mr. Craig Saffoe, who is a zookeeper at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. Mr. Saffoe currently works to take care of lions, tigers and other large cats at the zoo. He and a colleague from the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, also developed a group called AMZAP, which stands for Association of Minority Zoo and Aquarium Professionals. The group aims to support people of all colors who have a passion in working with animals.

Second grade had the opportunity to interview Mr. Ernest Allen, Jr., who they get to see frequently at their school! Mr. Allen worked as a custodian at Rehoboth Elementary and now spends time as a substitute custodian at Milton 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 grade had the opportunity participate in a dynamic presentation by WRDE’s Chief Meteorologist, Mr. Paul Williams. Mr. 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 them insight into all the research he conducts daily to help provide the most accurate weather predictions he can for the community.

Fourth grade students met and interviewed local entrepreneur, Preston Russell. Mr. Russell shared with students 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, Zava Café, and his newest restaurant Lago Asian Cuisine and Sushi Bar will be opening in downtown Milton later this spring.

Fifth graders enjoyed their chance to meet and talk with Mr. Bill Collick, who is known for his contributions in both the community and our School District. Mr. Collick collaborated with Marcos Salaverria of the Lewes Historical Society, who provided primary source photos and videos that showcased the Lewes community where Mr. Collick was raised. Students learned about his family, his successful coaching career, his extensive experience volunteering with various organizations, and his role as a current 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!”