Fifth graders at Oakley Elementary are stepping back in time as they dive into a hands-on research project that explores the history of their school.
As part of the project, students recently welcomed former Oakley students to share firsthand experiences, including Board of Education member Rev. Dr. Charles Martin. His stories painted a vivid picture of what Oakley was like decades ago, when the school served as the heart of the community.
Dr. Martin shared that Oakley was once a K-12 school, bringing students of all ages together under one campus. At the time, the school consisted of three separate buildings and was a central gathering place for community events, celebrations, and connections.
Through these conversations, students are gaining a deeper appreciation for how Oakley has evolved over the years - and the important role it has played in shaping the community.
The learning won’t stop there. In the coming weeks, students will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes for a special tour of the school, exploring original areas that are no longer used by students today.
By combining research, storytelling, and real-world connections, these fifth graders are not just learning about history - they’re becoming a part of it.
