WDS 8th Grade Explores Holocaust History Through Multifaceted Learning

This week, Westchester Day School’s 8th graders engaged in a meaningful, interdisciplinary exploration of the Holocaust, marking International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.

In social studies with Ms. Roode, students studied the progression of the Holocaust as part of their WWII unit, culminating in mock Nuremberg Trials that highlighted the trials’ role in shaping international law and setting a precedent for addressing crimes against humanity. They then explored the establishment of the State of Israel, drawing connections between their studies, their Names, Not Numbers® survivor interviews, and their Hebrew reading of Escape with Morah Ronit.

In ELA with Mrs. Rivel, students watched a powerful conversation between three Auschwitz survivors who were just 13 and 14 years old when they entered the camp— the same age as our 8th graders. A poignant message resonated deeply: "My story, from my mouth, cannot be denied."

Through text, testimony, and discussion, our students continue to learn, remember, and honor those who came before them. 

#NeverForget