Some New York schools embrace in-class discussion of the events of September 11, 2001. Others choose not to, for fear of reliving a tragedy that is still so tender in the hearts of the city. Six high schools across the country have adopted a specialized 9/11 curriculum this week, in hopes of fostering a better understanding of the events and moving forward.
Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani unveiled the curriculum Tuesday at a hotel near the World Trade Center site. "It gives young people a framework in which to think about Sept. 11," he said.
Developed by the New Jersey-based September 11 Education Trust, the lesson plan utilizes archival footage and interviews with more than 70 witnesses, family members, and politicians. The non-profit, directed by 9/11 victims’ families, survivors, rescue workers and educators nationwide, hopes to create an "open-ended inquiry" that will reflect on the impact and legacy of the attacks.
"This is one of the critical subjects on which young people should develop some ideas and thoughts," said the trust's executive director, Anthony Gardner, in an interview with the Associated Press. "[The curriculum] gives young people a framework in which to think about Sept. 11, all that it meant and all that it means to the present."
How have you talked about 9/11 with your kids? Have they talked about it in school?
Please post comments