Recent events become historical studies points for students

For many adults, events like September 11, 2001, the loss of world leaders, and the rise of political movements can feel far more recent.

However, for students in LaRue County High School, these events often predate their births. It’s up to history teachers like Kendrick Bryan to show these students that history is far closer to them than they realize and something they’re living each day.

”The students learn about 9/11 every year in a class,” Bryan said. “My students discuss the timeline of the events, and we watch a National Geographic documentary about the terrorist attacks. We discuss the War on Terror and the search for Osama Bin Laden.”

Like other high school teachers, Bryan brings his personal, firsthand experiences to contextualize modern historical events.

“I was a freshman on 9/11/2001,” Bryan said. “I am able to tell my students how it felt to be in a classroom that day. I watched the Twin Towers fall during my English class. I discuss how Americans were scared about what was happening.

“We watched the United States under attack on live television. My students commonly ask me many questions about how it felt to watch those events unfold on television.“

Bryan’s experiences played a role in him becoming passionate about teaching history and social studies. He said he hopes that students realize that they play a role in shaping history each day as it’s made.

“LaRue County graduates are expected to be engaged citizens and responsible individuals after graduation,” he said. “By understanding current events, students are able to think about how they are able to contribute to their communities. Our communities depend on civic participation to grow and succeed.”