Genocide in History Class poses above.

Photo by Ms. McDonough

by Lauren McKinnon

There are a variety of electives that are offered to students at Pembroke High School. Genocide in History, which is taught by Mrs. McDonough was selected as the best elective this month. Students have mentioned they like how collaborative the class is and the fact that they gain more knowledge of the world.

A genocide elective class provides students with a deeper understanding of historical and contemporary mass atrocities. Studying cases from different regions and time periods allows students to gain critical thinking skills, and develop awareness that foster empathy. By discussing these topics it promotes justice and helps people learn how to prevent future atrocities.

Senior Ella Shea claims, “It is really interesting learning about major events across the world that would not normally be covered in a traditional history class.” As said by Shea, this class covers beyond what would typically be covered in other history courses so it can add depth to a student's knowledge. Any student in the school, freshman to senior year, is allowed to take genocide.

Senior Jessie Cibotti who is also currently enrolled in the course agrees with Shea. She adds, “I like that the class is very collaborative.” Here she is claiming that not only is it informative, she also likes being a part of the class and the active participation between students.

The teacher seems to be favored by a lot of students who are in her classes. Mrs. McDonough says her favorite part of the class, “I think it would bring awareness to events that would not typically be covered in other history courses as well as giving the students the chance to leave an impact.” 

Having the opportunity to take a class about previous genocides such as the Holocaust or Rwandan Genocide could be beneficial to high school students. People who have interest in this area of study can expand their knowledge and take a class voluntarily that they enjoy. The class discusses the causation, motivation, and destruction of the genocides and that brought attraction to the students above.