As a grand finale to Ms. Halbach’s Native American social studies unit, Holy Family fourth graders met with Harvard’s Matt Liebmann, Professor of American Archaeology and Ethnology Department Chair. He visited the students via Zoom from his office in Boston. Professor Liebmann discussed his expertise on Native American history and culture, emphasizing that Native peoples are still thriving throughout America today, with eleven tribes residing in Wisconsin alone.
During his presentation, Professor Liebmann recounted his involvement in an excavation in New Mexico, where they discovered what was likely the first Catholic church built by Native Americans around 1620, over 400 years ago.
Additionally, Professor Liebmann shared a fun pop-culture fact with the class: Star Wars creator George Lucas was inspired by hairstyles worn by unmarried Pueblo girls’when designing Princess Leia’s now-iconic hair.
Halbach’s students thoroughly enjoyed their experience with Professor Liebmann and enthusiastically participated in his question and answer session at the end of the presentation.
Holy Family Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving preschool through eighth grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. Holy Family provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually. The best way to learn more about Holy Family is to visit! Schedule a tour here.
