Issues in Modern America 2011-2012

This past year I participated in one of the most engaging and thought provoking classes of my high school career: Issues in Modern America. Throughout the year, our class explored hot topics such as capital punishment, gun control, abortion, bullying, affirmative action, student rights, and sexual harassment among other topics. With articles, legal cases, movies, simulations, and intense discussions to help us along our way, my peers and I were pushed to explore the intensity and opposing viewpoints of these issues. Before going into this class, I did have some opinions on certain topics. But now, I can honestly say that I do not know what my opinion is on the death penalty or abortion, and the laws for me are not exactly black and white. But I am fine with this confusion, because I am confident that my Issues in Modern America class has given me the necessary resources to explore these hot topics thoroughly. Issues was one of my most rewarding classes because I was pushed to explore all angles of an issue, and to not form an opinion solely on emotion. The healthy and respectful classroom environment that was given to my peers and me in the class helped to contribute to its success. So Mr. Kramer, since I know you are reading this, thank you so very much for a great year. You have helped us all to open up our perspectives and become more involved citizens of the world around us. Thank you very much for everything that you have done for students of the past, present, and for all that you will do for future students.