As someone who has done her own genealogy and worked with
individuals doing genealogical research at the New York State
Library, I share Carol Kammen's reservations about genealogy as
a project for students. Ms. Kammen is not "alone."

     I think any genealogical project should be optional. In
this way, those children who do not want to participate or
are uncomfortable can elect to do an alternative project.
(Jim Corsaro also made this point.)

      I also think a mandated genealogical project is an
invasion of a child's right to privacy -- and, by extension,
that of his or her family.

      Genealogical research is best begun voluntarily whatever
the history or composition of one's family.




                                    Melinda Yates
                                    New York State Library
                                    Reference Services