An interdisciplinary highlight of fourth grade at RCDS is the Inspirational Figures Hall of Fame. 

Through literature, the students examine characters who overcame adversity, and discuss what makes a person an inspirational figure. After selecting an individual who has inspired others, the students conduct research about their life, career, and influence.

In art class, they create plasticine representations of their inspirational figures over the course of several art classes. The focus is on observation, attention to detail and craftsmanship. Finally, the fourth graders create, refine, and practice a presentation to share at a formal symposium-style event for parents/guardians and faculty in the PAC Theater. Students work hard to gather information, summarize, and present it with the proper tone and cadence in order to leave the audience just as inspired as they feel.  Sharing this meaningful work with an audience of loved ones and mentors is an especially proud moment for the fourth graders–it also serves as the culminating event of their senior Lower School year.
 
This year’s inspiration figures selections included Jim Abbott, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Jane Goodall, Temple Grandin, Anne Frank, Jackie Robinson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt, Theodore Roosevelt, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and more.

Bravo, Wildcats, and congratulations on your thorough research and your thoughtful presentations!