In early December, Ms. Hans' and Ms. Hutton's English 12 Comp DE classes took a transformative field trip to the National Portrait Gallery. Museum educators challenged students to think critically about how portraits are selected, prompting a powerful exploration of whose stories shape American identity, and whose are left out. This wasn't just a museum visit; it was an exercise in understanding the complex power dynamics that influence our collective memory. Students grappled with questions of inclusion and exclusion, learning that history is not a static narrative, but a living, evolving story.

Following the trip, students engaged in a compelling project: selecting a portrait from the gallery and crafting an argument for its significance. This task pushed them beyond passive observation, requiring them to analyze historical context, artistic techniques, and the subject's contribution to American culture. They became active participants in shaping the narrative, advocating for the stories they believed deserved recognition. This experience underscored the importance of critical thinking and demonstrated how students can contribute to a deeper understanding of American identity.