In a technologically advanced, media-saturated culture, children are often confronted with realities that are as disturbing as they are real. Educators search for ways to deal with events that are so compelling that everything else drowns in the tide. They search for ways to bring these events into the learning environment in a manner that is responsive to the needs of students and at the same time addresses required standards and meets federal guidelines. Some educators have found success through inquiry learning--a student-centered approach that provides opportunities for students to make choices that help determine the direction of their learning. Inquiry allows students to construct personal knowledge about issues and problems that is both personally meaningful and important to learn about. This article describes how educators can create an environment for students that encourages inquiry. (Contains 3 figures.)