Kid Speak

October 15, 1969, Neenah-Menasha Daily Northwestern

Sometimes I wonder about a lot of the things I feature in this blog, to include whether or not the schools still do historical tours of the city or how much history school kids get at all, for that matter.  While I realize it's a different world than it was some 48 years ago when this photo was taken, I believe that some things still stay the same- that an appreciation of what came before is necessary to chart a logical and sane course for the future.  It's like that old quotation- those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it. 

To expect third graders to embrace this concept is, perhaps. farfetched, but if one can spark that glimmer of interest within a student, he or she will be richly rewarded throughout their lives.  An appreciation of history is fundamental to a sense of identity and cultural heritage.  Moreover, in studying other peoples, a child can develop a greater sense of empathy and understanding which leads to social awareness, compassion, and tolerance.  Everyone wins.