History was brought to life by fourth-grade students from Columbus St. Mary School in the German Village neighborhood on Thursday, March 12.
A hands-on history project prompted students to spend weeks studying the debate surrounding the 19th Amendment and the fight for women’s right to vote.
This unique classroom project was led by longtime St. Mary teacher Mrs. Linda Cotter, who is in her 51st year as an educator. The project culminated at the Ohio Statehouse last week, where the students brought history to life, memorizing and delivering historic speeches while dressed in period-inspired attire.
“This program is one of the most memorable traditions in our fourth-grade curriculum,” said Gina Stull, principal of St. Mary School. “Mrs. Cotter brings history to life by helping students step into the voices of the suffragists who helped shape our country. Not only do students learn about an important moment in American history, but they also gain confidence in public speaking as they memorize and perform these powerful speeches at the Ohio Statehouse. It’s an experience our students look forward to every year.”
Students presented speeches from both sides of the debate; those advancing for women’s suffrage and those opposing the amendment, giving them a deeper understanding of the complex conversations that shaped American democracy.
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Among the historical figures the students represented were Sojourner Truth, Clara Barton and Woodrow Wilson, along with other voices from the era whose words helped shape the national conversation around voting rights.
Many students said the experience was both exciting and nerve-racking.
“My legs were shaking I was so nervous,” said fourth grader Dominic. “But it was a really fun experience.”
Dominic’s classmate Angela also reflected on the opportunity to learn about this pivotal moment in American history.
“It was really beautiful and we got to learn about history and how women got the right to vote,” she said.
The suffragist speech program has become a hallmark of Mrs. Cotter’s classroom, blending history, research, performance and civic engagement into an unforgettable learning experience for students.