Staten Island – Over the last five months, the Staten Island Holocaust Center has helped pave the way for furthering Holocaust Education across the borough by starting a conversation and open-dialogue with young students and schools on Staten Island.
In January, in an effort to improve Holocaust Education and learning across the state of New York, the Staten Island Holocaust Center and The Ninth Candle announced a partnership to offer a one-of-a-kind experience centered on Holocaust Education Programming for Middle School and High School students in Staten Island.
What followed in March provided the opportunity for students on Staten Island to gain an educational experience they would never forget. As part of on-going Holocaust Education programming, SIHC facilitated a Zoom discussion with Staten Island resident and Holocaust survivor, Arthur Spielman, who spoke openly about his incredible story with students at Port Richmond High School.
In early May, the teaching continued. The 5th Grade students at PS11 Thomas Dongan School may not have known the name of the late Emil Jacoby, but chances are they will remember the Holocaust Survivor, former Staten Island resident, and talented artist now thanks to Rachel Borenstein (SIHC President), who shared her compelling story regarding her father. Along with engaging and fielding questions from students, SIHC and The Ninth Candle received positive feedback about the Holocaust Education program at PS11 Thomas Dongan School from supportive faculty members:
What made you decide to work with The Staten Island Holocaust Center and The Ninth Candle?
"They were very informative, kind, and enthusiastic about supporting us to educate our fifth graders."
"Expertise, stellar reputations, student curiosity, inclusive education, remembrance, and honor."
Please describe how your program(s) with The Staten Island Holocaust Center and The Ninth Candle changed your ideas about Holocaust education.
"I loved the way this approach also enlightened the students about how music and the Arts also helped as a strong source of survival."
"It helped students understand the context of this horrific act, and ways to ensure this type of history never repeats itself."
Please describe the impact of your program(s) with The Staten Island Holocaust Center and The Ninth Candle on your students.
"My students are more aware of how important it is not to be a bystander. They are more aware of the difference between perpetrators, victims, rescuers, and bystanders."
"The visit by Rachel Borenstein was very powerful. Students asked her thought-provoking questions and extended their learning through the arts. We hope that this project will forever be etched in their hearts and minds."
What, in your opinion, was unique or original about your program(s) with The Staten Island Holocaust Center and The Ninth Candle?
"It was very interactive and the students were able to come up with ongoing questions."
"Hearing from the second-generation survivor was certainly unique."
How likely are you to recommend the programs of The Staten Island Holocaust Center and The Ninth Candle to another teacher or school?
“100%...very likely."
"I would definitely use this organization again. It was wonderful and made a difference for the better. Thank you!”
If you have questions or would like further information about Holocaust Education programming, please contact the Staten Island Holocaust Center.
Contact:
Rachel Borenstein (SIHC, President)
(917) 855-0279
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