Ninth graders present at Shir Shalom Woodstock Area Jewish Community
This spring, the ninth graders have been engaged in an interdisciplinary Holocaust and Genocide unit in their English and Modern World classes. In Modern World History with Mr. Wolfe, students learned about the historical background of the Holocaust, studying the escalation of hate that led up to the atrocities. They also made connections between the Holocaust and other genocides, and examined how hate escalates and manifests in the present day. In English with Ms. SJ, they explored the individual stories of people who endured the Holocaust, including survivors, rescuers, and people whose lives were unfortunately lost. They created informative museum exhibits, honoring their chosen people’s lives and legacies.
On June 8th, all ninth graders went to Shir Shalom Woodstock Area Jewish Community where they were joined by Rabbi Haigh, Lois Fein, and 20 other Shir Shalom congregants. Students displayed their final projects for all to examine. Lux Ringenberg, Yanni Amos, Bowie Appelfeller, Heidi Thompson, Nick Melrod, Gwen Boudreau, and Ariana Franco Montesinos presented their final projects in front of the entire assembled group. Students also had the unique opportunity to view a primary source - Shir Shalom’s Holocaust Torah Scroll, which likely dates back to the 1840s. Finally, students were treated to delicious pizza and popsicles, which were generously provided by Shir Shalom.
Students, congregants, and teachers alike were deeply moved by the experience. Charlie Hauze shared how meaningful it was that the congregants joined us and shared their experiences with us. Nick Melrod remarked that he was surprised by how many of the congregants had personal connections with the Holocaust. Other students reflected on how powerful it was to witness the vibrancy of our local Jewish community.
This field trip was made possible by the generosity of Shir Shalom leaders and congregants, including Rabbi Haigh, Lois Fein, President Elliot Goodman. We owe them all many thanks!
