The EMSB is proud to continue its vital Holocaust education program, thanks to a generous grant from Federation CJA. In this episode, host Mark Bergman takes listeners on a tour with Grade 11 students from John F. Kennedy High School, exploring the impact of this important program. He also sits down with Sara Fogg, Communications Director at the Montreal Holocaust Museum, and Paula Kilian, EMSB Commissioner, to discuss the program’s significance, funding, and the role of education in preserving history.

Join us as we hear firsthand from students and leaders committed to keeping the lessons of the Holocaust alive for future generations.

In this episode, we sit down with students from Pierre Elliot Trudeau School—Beatrice, Massimo, Azhana, and Simone—four thoughtful and articulate Grade 6 voices, joined by Rocco Speranza, student animator at the EMSB. Together, we delve into their journey of learning about the Holocaust.

We explore the significance of Holocaust education, reflecting on what the students knew beforehand, the moments that left the deepest impressions, and why acknowledging the mistakes of the past is essential for a better future. Themes of respect, acceptance, inclusion, and understanding are woven throughout their reflections, highlighting the lasting impact of this powerful educational experience.

Join us for a compelling conversation about the role of history in fostering empathy, awareness, and positive change.

In this episode, we sit down with Grade 6 students Ciella and Léon from Edward Murphy Elementary School, along with Rocco Speranza, the school’s personal development and community involvement animator, to reflect on their visit to the Montreal Holocaust Museum.

We explore the students’ experiences, starting with what they knew about the Holocaust before their visit and the educational preparation they received in class. They share the moments that impacted them most and discuss why learning from the mistakes of the past is vital for fostering respect, acceptance, inclusion, and understanding in today’s world.

Join us as we uncover what these young learners took away from this important visit, their feelings, and how the lessons of history shape their perspective on peace and inclusion. This episode is a thoughtful conversation about the importance of teaching respect and understanding to future generations.

In this episode, we sit down with Grade 6 students Alex De Cola, Lily Daniliuc, and Sidney Chheng from Dante, alongside Mary Poulas, a dedicated personal development and community animator. Together, they reflect on a transformative educational experience: their visit to the Holocaust Museum.

The conversation delves into how the students were prepared for this profound journey, their initial understanding of the Holocaust, and the lasting impressions the museum visit left on them.

In this episode, we sit down with students from Perspectives I and II who recently took part in an educational tour of the Montreal Holocaust Museum. Joining us are Damien Anthony Masson-Ioanna, Mia Manicone, and Victoria from Perspectives II, all in Secondary 5, along with Massimo Vitale, a Grade 8 student from Perspectives I.

Also featured are Rodney Hanelsman, a teacher from Perspectives II, and Sarah Fogg, the Communications Director at the Montreal Holocaust Museum.

We explore the impact of Holocaust education through the eyes of these young learners, discussing the moments during the tour that left a lasting impression. Through their reflections, we delve into why understanding the mistakes of the past is essential for building a future rooted in respect, acceptance, inclusion, and understanding.

It’s a heartfelt conversation about history, antisemitism and the power of education.

Embark on an insightful journey with award-winning teacher Chantal Clabrough, recipient of the 2023 Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Teaching. Join Chantal and two exceptional students, Aissatou Barrie and Joseph Pozdena, as they share their moving experiences at the Montreal Holocaust Museum and discuss the profound impact of learning about the Holocaust in the classroom. This episode unveils the power of history education, offering a compelling exploration of real-world and classroom perspectives on this crucial topic.

On Monday, November 13, some members of the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) Council of Commissioners made an unprecedented visit to the Montreal Holocaust Museum.

The EMSB has placed a heavy emphasis on students, notably those from non-Jewish areas, visiting the Museum and learning more about the Holocaust and the evils of antisemitism. Most recently, the Council of Commissioners adopted a resolution calling for Holocaust education to become mandatory in the curriculum.

On this episode, EMSB Chair, Joe Ortona, and Parent Commissioner, Maria Corsi join Mark Bergman to discuss their experience at the museum.

Sandra Banon, Cycle 3 French teacher (St. Monica), and Samantha Page Smith, Spiritual and Community Animator (Westmount High, St. Monica, Hampstead, and John Grant High School) were selected to take part in the 2023 Canadian Society for Yad Vashem Holocaust Educators Scholarship program in Israel this past July along with dozens of other educators from across Canada. Mme Banon took part in the two-week seminar in French, while Ms. Samantha took part in the English. They attended lectures and workshops at the International School for Holocaust Studies (ISHS) where educators are taught to bring their students safely in and safely out of the learning environment with the provision of age and level appropriate materials to aid the learning process. The ISHS uses an interdisciplinary approach to Holocaust education - through art, music, literature, theology and drama - to provide students a broader understanding of what happened during this period. Sandra and Samantha will be bringing their applied knowledge to St. Monica (and others) in the year ahead.