Sophomores recently had an opportunity for a meaningful visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Students were invited to learn about the atrocities committed during the Holocaust but also to bear witness to resilience and resistance despite the unspeakable horrors of World War 2. Our students engaged with artifacts with the utmost respect, and some even had the chance to speak with survivors after a tour of the exhibits. Beyond the connections to lessons in their history and English classes, our sophomores had the opportunity to reflect on human suffering along with a persistent spirit of hope. After returning from the trip, students joined small groups to share what they learned and experienced in the museum, ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust continue to resonate and inform our understanding of history and humanity. 

The Holocaust and Human Behavior class visited the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum before the break. During the semester, they began by studying the roots of antisemitism and scientific racism before the Weimar Republic and the eventual rise of the Nazi party. They then considered how the gradual build-up of Nazi policies against Jews led to the Final Solution and the destruction of Jewish communities across Europe. They also examined Nazi policies against other groups of people in Europe at the time. Understanding these ideas helped students explore the museum in depth as they pondered the choices that individuals made during this era. They will continue using their new understanding as they work on their final projects for the semester. 

This year's George Mason University Patriot Games Speech and Debate tournament was an excellent event for Potomac’s speech and debate team. The event featured students from 14 states. Potomac claimed third place in team sweeps. The team was led by Meredith Vorndran '25, who placed fourth in individual sweeps, and Alex Bauer '25, who placed tenth overall. His efforts were backed by several final-round appearances by the team, including three final rounds by Vorndran. Taylor Burris '24 also finished the tournament strongly with two final rounds. Potomac dominated in congressional debate, extemporaneous speaking, and impromptu speaking. A list of the final results can be found here. Congrats to all!