May 17, 2012
Dear Parents,
As I write this, I am looking back at a fantastic journey; our kids have come such a long way this year. Their progress has been staggering. Please take some time to celebrate them as the school year is ending. The dedication and sacrifice they have put forth is truly special. They have blazed a trail for future classes at Atascocita High to follow. They were the first World History AP class in our district's history and they have created a wonderful foundation for the future.
So what is happening after the test? Our other incredible World History AP teacher, Mr. John Gillespie, and I have been working on a surprise. We are going to engage the kids in discussion and analysis of the film Hotel Rwanda, a dramatized depiction of the Rwandan genocide of 1994. Having shown this film before, I can attest to its power to motivate kids to think critically about international violence, and the responsibility of the individual. I will use a teaching guide produced by Amnesty International.
We will not only study the Rwandan Genocide, but also relate it to the other atrocities of the 20th century. The genocide of Bosnia-Herzegovina also occurred at the same time as Rwanda. Many are familiar with the Holocaust during World War II. The students have already studied about the horrors of the Rape of Nanking, Mao’s Great Leap Forward, Stalin’s forced famine of his own people in Russia, and Pol Pot in Cambodia. Information on Hotel Rwanda will be included on the final exam.
I would also like you to be aware that this film is rated PG-13. As a courtesy to you, I would like you to acknowledge your consent before I show the film. A duplicate copy of this letter, along with the permission form can be downloaded on my website: http://whap.mrduez.com
If you choose not to allow your child to watch the film, an alternative assignment will be arranged.
Please return the form by Monday, May 21.
Hotel Rwanda Information & Parent Permission Slip
Trailer for Hotel Rwanda:
