Learning about history became something deeply personal for students from St. Pius X, St. Matthew, and All Saints High Schools. Through a special partnership with the Anne Frank House, the Dutch Embassy, and Beechwood National Cemetery, students became guides for the international exhibition “Anne Frank – A History for Today,” helping visitors connect the lessons of the past to the challenges of the present.
The international exhibition has been presented more than 150 times each year around the world, sharing the life and legacy of Anne Frank with communities of all ages. During its time in Ottawa, students guided visitors through Anne’s story, leading tours for ambassadors, diplomats, members of the Armed Forces, representatives from Global Affairs Canada, and members of the Jewish community.
Through this experience, students became storytellers and leaders, helping audiences reflect on history while connecting it to issues of inclusion, democracy, and human rights.
Bringing History to Life
The classroom initiative was led by St. Pius X teacher Emily Barsanti-Innes, who served as team lead and liaison with the Anne Frank House.
“I reached out to colleagues who recommended students with strong interests in history, law, politics, and world issues,” explained Emily. “With so much emphasis on STEM these days, it was nice to offer an opportunity for students who shine in the social sciences.”
Students selected for the project came from senior courses in Law, History, English, Politics, and World Issues. Before leading tours, they completed several days of intensive training. The sessions included studying Anne’s life, learning about Holocaust history, and exploring how to recognize and challenge misinformation. Students also practised how to respond thoughtfully to sensitive questions and how to connect historical lessons to modern-day realities.
“We want students to bring Anne’s voice to life in a way that feels authentic and meaningful,” said Emily. “Anne was their age when she was in hiding. These discussions about inclusion and democracy are more important than ever.”
Learning Through Leadership
As guides, the students led a diverse range of guests through the exhibit, including international ambassadors, veterans, and local families. Many visitors were deeply moved by the students’ knowledge, empathy, and professionalism. The Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands was especially impressed by their leadership and depth of understanding, offering praise for the meaningful connections they helped visitors make.
Emily reflected on the significance of the experience for both students and educators.
“By having students lead these tours, we hope to help others make connections between Anne’s story and the world we live in today. The students’ insight and empathy made this project truly special. They reminded us that learning can be both deeply intellectual and deeply human.”
Student Reflections
For many of the students involved, the experience was one they will carry for years to come.
“Volunteering with the Anne Frank House and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands was an experience impossible to forget,” said Ella C., Grade 11. “I made amazing connections with my fellow volunteers and learned a lot about a topic I’ve never researched before. The Embassy gave me, and many other students, the opportunity of a lifetime to learn and develop public speaking skills. This was definitely the story of a lifetime and something I will never forget.”
Inspiring Future Generations
The Anne Frank – A History for Today exhibition has now returned to Stratford, Ontario, where it will continue its journey to inspire new audiences world-wide.
The OCSB is proud to have partnered with the Anne Frank House and the Dutch Embassy to help share this important story. Through compassion, curiosity, and courage, these students reminded everyone that education is not only about learning about history but about understanding humanity and carrying its lessons forward with purpose and hope.
