Student diorama on display for Tour of Steeples

Each year, area fourth grade students are invited to participate in the Sioux City Public Museum’s History Project. As part of this program, students create a diorama representing one of the areas historic sites, buildings or churches.

One Cathedral Dual Language Academy student's diorama will be on display for the Tour of Steeples in Sioux City. Poppy Benson, daughter of Andrew and Angela Benson, Sioux City Mater Dei Parishioners, created a diorama based on her church of attendance, Nativity. 

Poppy spent three weeks planning, designing, and constructing a replica of the church using cardboard. While many students focused primarily on the exterior of their chosen historic site, Poppy devoted her attention to both the inside and outside of Nativity. She began by taking detailed photos of the church, ensuring that her diorama would mirror it as accurately as possible.

After completing her project, Poppy wrote an essay about Nativity Church in both English and Spanish.

“It took a great amount of time, care, and effort. We are very proud of the work Poppy did," said her mother, Angela. Her father shared how meaningful it was to spend that time together as a family, deepening their understanding of the Catholic faith.

The Bensons reached out to Father Brad Pelzel, pastor, about displaying the replica during the Tour of Steeples event at Nativity, and he agreed. 

“My church is beautiful and important to many people,” said Poppy.

All can view both Nativity Church and her handmade replica during the Tour of Steeples on Dec. 5 and 6 and at Sioux City Immaculate Conception Church the week of Dec. 8. 

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