U.S. History

My name is Carolyn Watkins, and I have been a teacher at West Orange–Stark High School since 2022. I graduated from Lamar University in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in University Studies. I am currently the U.S. History teacher and proudly serve as the Student Council Sponsor and UIL Social Studies Sponsor.

 

In 11th-grade U.S. History, students study American history from 1877 to the present, preparing them for the STAAR End-of-Course (EOC) exam. Throughout the year, we focus on key topics such as industrialization, reform movements, World War I and World War II, the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movement, the Cold War, and modern political, social, and economic issues. Instruction emphasizes historical thinking skills, primary and secondary source analysis, and STAAR-aligned strategies to help students build confidence and succeed on the EOC while also developing a deeper understanding of how the past shapes the present.

 

As Student Council Sponsor, I work closely with students to promote leadership, school spirit, and community involvement. Student Council provides students with valuable opportunities to develop responsibility, teamwork, communication skills, and service-learning experiences. Getting involved helps students grow as leaders while making a positive impact on our campus and community.

 

I look forward to a successful year of learning, leadership, and growth.