Introduction

         Facing History and Ourselves is a half-year elective course given at Westborough High School. When choose my course a senior I thought that this elective would be a good fit into my schedule. A history course is not required to be taken by seniors, and I thought that seeing as I had always loved history that this class would be a good choice. I had heard great things from kids that had taken the course, but I did not know any of the specifics to the curriculum and basically decided to go into the class with an open mind. From day one Mr. Gallagher showed us how passionate that he was about the course. The emotion with which he talked about the material we were covering made the experience all the more meaningful. Through discussions, readings, and films the class uses historical events and situations to teach students about civil responsibility and how everyone can make a difference. How willing a student is to let down their guard and open themselves up to class, determines whether or not the class succeeds in its mission. The course forces its students to take a step away from everything and view themselves in a way that most people have never done. It asks you too take a look yourselves and question the morals and values that you live your life with. The final step is to find out how you will react if you are ever faced with adversity. Will you just stand back and be a bystander or will you take action and stand up for someone who is being victimized. After taking this course senior year I believe that its material and elective opportunities should be spread out past the senior grade to younger students. The class can be life altering and everyone should have the chance to experience it.