Searching for Eminence

Former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, folk singer Bob Dylan, U.S. Women’s Soccer Player Carli Lloyd, and astronaut Buzz Aldrin—among other notable guests—all appeared before an eager audience of parents and Middle School students in the Parkside theater on Tuesday, May 10. These eminent persons, each portrayed by a current 6^th grader, were chosen because of their contributions to the greater good of society. Questions from the emcee, Humanities Teacher Dave Levy, and members of the audience prompted the guests to share wisdom drawn from their life experiences.

 

 

Students spend a month researching their chosen person in order to play the part. Commenting on this challenge that the 6th graders undertake, Dave said, “This goes beyond memorization. They have to become an expert on that person, embody the person’s personality and spirit.”

 

Students write a four-part essay demonstrating their understanding of the person and their accomplishments. Throughout the project, they are expected to conduct research independent of class study, consider the values or their chosen person, and learn what it means to be an eminent person. Students become familiar with their chosen person’s thought process, influences, and leadership traits in order to answer impromptu questions from a live audience.

 

 

The audience challenged them: What advice would you give to young people walking in your footsteps today? What were your influences and what kept you going in the face of challenges? Nelson Mandela said, “Great leaders should listen to their people and hear what they are saying even if they don’t agree.” Milton Hershey said sharing happiness was his motivation: “One is only happy in proportion as he makes others feel happy.”

 

Nicola Tesla warned all inventors to be sure to get credit for everything you create and added, “Always do your best even if you fail. Pick up a pencil, a new piece of paper, and just keep going.” When asked about her favorite ingredient, Julia Child got some laughs with her simple answer, “Butter . . . because it makes everything taste good.”

 

“The ability to put themselves in the head of another person is important,” explains Dave. Knowing what’s important to someone else, whether in conversation or collaboration, is a skill they will use for the rest of their lives. The Eminent Person Panel develops 6th graders’ empathy and deepens their critical thinking and understanding of the world.