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Marie Reed Elementary School

During the 2016-2017 school year, Marie Reed Elementary School (Ward 1) underwent a full building modernization. The renovation architects worked closely with the school and area residents to restore the building to its original intent by creating a space that brings together learning and the community. The modernization plans included a Legacy Walk, a prominently located space for a museum-quality exhibit about the school’s history.

Starting in October 2016, participating Marie Reed students in grades 2 – 5 met for an hour every week to uncover and explore the historical facts that tell the story of their school. By working with teachers, curators, historians, photographers, librarians, and community members, students got the chance to enhance critical thinking and life skills. They participated in historical walking tours of their community, visited museums and archives, created their own mini-exhibits with a shadow box memory project, interviewed long-term residents, conducted hands-on research, and searched for relevant historical photographs and imagery.

By the end of the school year, students unearthed enough content to create a compelling exhibit that the entire community could take pride in and learn from. The story of Marie Reed Elementary School is intricate and fascinating as it reflects the history of one of DC’s most sought after neighborhoods.

On May 16th, 2018 The Story of Our Schools revealed our second exhibit at Marie Elementary School. We are extremely honored to have partnered with this amazing dedicated community!