LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

 LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ — The cafeteria at McManus Middle School burst to life on Friday afternoon, October 10, as students stepped into history -- literally. Dressed as legendary Hispanic icons, they stood proudly beside table-top displays and welcomed visitors to the school’s annual Hispanic Heritage Month Bilingual “Wax Museum.”

Modeled after the famed Madame Tussauds, the McManus “Wax Museum” traded silent figures for living, breathing storytellers. Each student embodied a famous Hispanic figure, from artists and athletes to activists and scientists, ready to “come alive” at the tap of a shoulder. In Spanish, in English, or sometimes in both, they told stories of perseverance, creativity, and pride.

“It’s like visiting Madame Tussauds,” said Spanish teacher Ms. Penaranda, who has led the project for more than a decade. “Except our wax figures speak, sometimes in two languages! They’re bilingual waxes.”

History Comes Alive in Two Languages

The event featured students from both Spanish Heritage Honors and Spanish 8 Honors classes. The Heritage group --students who speak Spanish at home -- focused on strengthening their literacy and connection to their cultural roots. Meanwhile, the Spanish 8 Honors students, who are learning Spanish as a new language, embraced the challenge of bilingual presentation with enthusiasm and confidence.

Ms. Penaranda explained that each participant researched a famous Hispanic figure, exploring where they were born, what they achieved, and why they continue to inspire. Their findings became colorful graphic table displays, filled with photos, timelines, and inspirational quotes. Many students dressed in full costume to mirror the icons they portrayed, adding flair, authenticity, and excitement to the living gallery.

“The idea is to help our students connect deeply with their roots, their language, and the people who inspire them,” said Penaranda. “It’s not just about memorizing facts. It is about celebrating identity and sharing it with others.”

A Family Affair with Flavor and Pride

The event drew a lively crowd of parents, teachers, and classmates who packed the cafeteria in celebration. Families contributed dishes such as empanadas, pastelitos, and arroz con pollo, infusing the air with the warmth and aroma of home-cooked Hispanic cuisine.

“The parents are such a big part of this,” Penaranda said. “They donate food, they come to support, and they take pride in seeing their children represent their culture with confidence.” Laughter, applause, and the rhythmic blend of Spanish and English filled the room, creating an atmosphere that was equal parts museum, classroom, and fiesta.

A Tradition That Inspires Generations

Now in its tenth year, the McManus Hispanic Heritage Month “Wax Museum” has evolved into a rite of passage that students eagerly await throughout middle school.

“It’s a blast every year,” Penaranda said with a smile. “For the students who are learning Spanish, it’s a fun way to practice. For our native speakers, it’s a chance to shine and share their culture proudly. It builds bridges and reminds everyone how rich and diverse our community truly is.”