Chelsea Strutton

Writer

Throughout the course of a student’s education, he or she encounters many individuals or acquaintances as well as various topics that will go on to shape who he or she is as a person.

Having decided to add the Modern History class at Marlow High school during the 2020-21 school year, seniors who do not take another math or science are required to take the class and learn about more recent events in history and how they relate to the past.

Starting with the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921, which is known as being one of the deadliest riots in United States history, students are learning about the eighteen hour event through listening to podcasts, researching articles and reading “Dreamland Burning” by Jennifer Latham, a historical fiction novel that allows students to see the event through the eyes of the narrator.

The study has highlighted the fact that over 35 city blocks of homes and businesses were burned and looted over the eighteen hour event, as well as the fact that there are 36 recorded deaths from this incident.

Enjoying the addition of Modern History in his schedule, senior Conor Hammond spoke about what he hopes students take away from the topic.

“I hope the students learn of the trauma and hurt that these events have caused,” explained Hammond. “I hope that one day we can all begin to share a common respect among all people.”

Teaching the sensitive subject in a manner that allows students to recognize how terrible the event was is teacher Haleigh Elroy.

A Marlow High School alumni, Elroy graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2016 to teach the students of Mannford Middle School and Ripley High School before returning to her hometown to teach the students of Marlow Public Schools.

With her own experiences and stories to tell, Elroy explained why she believes teaching the Tulsa Race Massacre is important.

“In Marlow, I feel like we are very sheltered in the fact that it is not a very diverse community. Teaching something from Tulsa, kids are able to relate to it because it is relevant to our area. When they go out to become functioning adults of society, they will be more geared to handle diversity in the workplace,” said Elroy. “Before they graduate, I want to make sure they are taught cultural diversity in the classroom, so they are prepared for it.”

As the seniors continue to navigate their last year of high school, the Modern History class will aid them in discovering their beliefs as well as growing as individuals.