Megan Webster interviewed by reporter, Jacqui Hook





 

 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 

AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARY: HIGHLIGHT OF HUMANITIES ENRICHMENT PROJECT

 

After many months of grueling interviews and tireless efforts, Megan Webster’s 11th Grade Humanities class, part of an enriched program in Humanities, witnessed the fruits of their labour. The documentary production, entitled “Life in an Open Prison”, focusing on personal stories of the Cambodian Genocide, has been the source of public applause as well as personal growth for the participating students. Students gained an understanding of the complexities of genocide, on multiple levels, and gained invaluable insight, clarity and sensitivity. In fact, as explained by Ms. Webster, “Seeing the degree of motivation the students have for the preservation and dissemination of the life stories of survivors of the Cambodian genocide has again affirmed to me the purpose of education, as I see it: to help human beings understand and develop empathy and commitment towards themselves, their community, and their world.” The American Association of Oral History clearly agrees, as they have awarded Ms. Webster the prestigious Martha Ross Teaching Award, chosen among many impressive candidates across North America, for her work in this area.

Screenings, followed by Question & Answer periods, involving the students, have been underway at the Cinémathèque québécoise this fall.

View the article that appeared in The Gazette September 22, 2009: 'Life in Open Prison Humanities Film' for more information.