Collège Anne Frank

It is symbolic to name schools after people whose traits and attributes the society admires. Often schools in the United States are named in honor of presidents and governors; thus it is interesting to consider individuals who have been honored by a named school in other countries. On rue Trosseau (in the 11th arrondissement) the Collège Anne Frank sits on an otherwise nondescript street in Paris.

Although her book remains a controversial work in some quarters, for many of us Anne Frank is the epitome of bravery in the face of monstrous evil and mortal danger, as well as an excellent writer whose talents went unfulfilled. Although it has been years since I have read The Diary of Anne Frank, when I occasionally come across a passage of the book I am always amazed by the poise and sophistication of her writing. The book delves into subjects and depths that are rarely considered by many. It is amazing to think that the words and thoughts of this young woman of Amsterdam are so profound. (See the only known footage of Anne Frank here)

A plaque on the front of the school reminds the reader to remember and recall the Jewish students of the school who were deported and ultimately died in concentration camps. In all, the plaque reveals, about 1200 students from the arrondissement died at the hands of the Nazis and with the collaboration of the Vichy regime.