At the beginning of every school year, we ponder upon exciting new changes around Kent. Along with the new cell phone policy and renovation on the RAD Quad, there was a perhaps less conspicuous, though still meaningful, change made to the school’s history curriculum.

The department introduced four significant changes to its curriculum this year. Ancient and Medieval History and Modern European History are no longer offered to freshmen; instead, they are required to take Modern World History. Sophomores and above can now select between thematic and chronological US History. Upperclassmen also have more freedom to choose elective courses based on their interests. And finally, the history-related graduation requirements have been expanded from two years of study to two years and two terms. 

Dr. Zibro, who, as the History Department’s Curriculum Committee representative, was key to this initiative, comments that “these changes allow students to have more choices in and take ownership of their academic plan.” But the new curriculum is more than just offering the students more flexibility; it also gives the teachers more freedom to teach subjects of their personal strengths and passions. 

With a more dynamic curriculum, Kent students are more motivated, for they feel less pressure to take courses for the purpose of meeting requirements. Moreover, those with a strong interest in history can now earn an Advanced Studies Diploma upon graduation if they can meet certain course requirements.