The Lessons of Vietnam class is a vital tradition rooted within our school’s history. Mr. Grow began teaching the course in 2010 after Mrs. Lindy Poling left Millbrook, and Mr. Jackson also started teaching it this school year. Before she retired, Mrs. Poling made a network linked with the curriculum called Community in the Classroom. This activity brought veterans within the community into the classroom to speak to the students.

 When Mr. Grow began teaching the class, he continued this tradition by bringing in veterans to be guest speakers, and to this day, the class still has these visits. Mr. Grow said, “The guest speakers are one of my favorite aspects of the class because they pass on life lessons that are valuable from an outside perspective. Teachers can’t always relate to the kids in that way.” Students have various opinions on the world, and veterans do too. This opportunity for students to have speakers who voice their opinions and teach them about the past is exceptional. Some of the veterans who will be coming to Millbrook this year include Mr. Paul White, a man who was drafted into the military, and Mr. Charlie Silver, a helicopter pilot from the US Marines.

 Throughout the school year, Lessons of Vietnam students learn about international issues, conflicts, and history. Mr. Grow and Mr. Jackson  like to teach using CBS News video clips, Songs of the Era projects, and also the presentations from the veterans. Through these activities, students are given the opportunity to learn in a fun, real way. These types of experiences make recent international events memorable, genuine, and overall more tangible.

 Soon enough, school guidance counselors will be asking students to choose their classes for the next year. “Follow your bliss,” Mr. Grow said, “Pick something that’s valuable for what you want and fits your purpose.” Since the class has educated discussions, debates, and entirely learns about world wars and events, a level of responsibility is needed. This means that only twelfth graders can sign up for this class. Though only seniors can take this class, that gives Lessons of Vietnam a specific detail: maturity.

 If history and modern, international news is what you enjoy, Lessons of Vietnam is for you! Whether you are able to sign up for the class or not, Lessons of Vietnam is truly a class worth considering.