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History / Social Science

The most important purpose of a history and social studies education is to develop the ability in students to make informed and reasoned decisions for themselves and for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society, and interdependent world. Our nation is dedicated to the proposition of social justice and equality. Therefore, one of our primary goals as public school social studies teachers is to activate the citizenship potential of our students so that this mandate does not go unfulfilled.

Regarding history education, Cicero, the famous Roman statesman, once wrote that "“to be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child." If this were true in the much simpler times of ancient Rome, it is especially true today. In today's world of high speed information technology, complex economic and socio-political problems and rapid change, there has never been a more urgent need for a comprehensive history and social studies education. A wellrounded social studies education will help students decode the complexity of the world by providing frameworks which allow them to gain essential understandings of their personal, social, and historical circumstances. It is vital that all students know that the past has created the present, and that they are the effects of dynamic historical processes. Understanding their own socio-historical foundations will better prepare them to determine their own futures and affect positive change for themselves, their families, and their communities.

The Chelsea High School Social Studies program is a combination of a solid curriculum aligned with the Massachusetts State Frameworks, enrichment courses and programs, and excellent teachers, insuring that all students are given an opportunity to receive a strong foundation in the social studies. The intent is that students will be provided with multiple opportunities for rich experiences and indepth study as they progress through the grades. Through its course offerings and course designs, the Social Studies department emphasizes the study of history, but integrates history with geography, civics, economics, law, government, religion, and culture studies. All of the courses offered in the Social Studies department are designed to develop critical thinking skills which stimulate historical analysis and to enhance reading and writing skills. In addition to the core subjects, students have opportunities for enrichment through electives and participation in extracurricular programs such as Harvard Model Congress and the Student Advisory Council.

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