In the time since the beginning of the school year, this particular class has gained a great deal of recognition and commendation from the community. Channel 3 News featured the class earlier this month, and they were also featured in articles appearing in the Plain Dealer and What She Wants (a feminists newspaper). In addition, Miss Russo has recieved imput from members of the community and parents of class members, thus providing feedback on the needs of such a course.
When interviewed, Miss Russo said that "A Woman's Place" has been one of the most interesting classes she has ever taught. She stresses several things in reference to the course, stating that her goal in teaching it has not been to "turn out radical feminists, crusaders of hotshots." Instead, Miss Russo feels that "As a class, we have gained better insights into ourselves as persons and individuals as well as men or women."
Among the topics covered during the span of the course are the social concepts of masculinity and femininity, a history of the women's liberation movement, studies of certain famous women in varied fields and changing social views of male-female roles. Used as educational tools in the course are a multitude of guest speakers, field trips and guest "teachers" who show the students their specialities. Miss Russo adds that imput from the males in the class and from other sources has been very important in keeping this course with an objective focus. Lively discussion of current topics adds to the effectiveness of the course.
Miss Russo is looking forward to teaching at least one "Woman's Place" class next year. The first class gained a better understanding of "the roles of men and women as part of society, the 'masculine' and 'feminine' aspects of each person, and most importantly the course has been a stepping stone to developing a sense of identity," according to Miss Russo.
Guest artist Barbara Angel shares some of her work with the "Woman's Place" class.