Eighth Graders Learn Lessons in History and Humanity from Holocaust Survivor

On May 8, eighth grade students at the Honeoye Falls – Lima Middle School had the pleasure of meeting Holocaust survivor, Henry Silberstern.

Born to a loving, middle-class Czech family, Henry survived the unimaginable cruelties imposed upon children by the Nazis. Shipped from one concentration camp to another, he landed in a camp controlled by Dr. Joseph Mengele. Mengele was commonly known as the "Angel of Death" for promoting medical experimentation on inmates. Henry's astonishing story of survival had a tremendous impact on the students.

Today, in cooperation with the Federation's Center for Holocaust Awareness and Information (CHAI), which helped produce the Emmy award winning film Birkenau Boys, Henry speaks to thousands of students each year inspiring them with his courage and fortitude.

Henry had the pleasure of working more closely with a select group of eighth grade students who showed a strong interest in the subject.  The small group discussion gave these students an opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of this unique and tragic period in world history through the eyes of a survivor who was just a child at the time.

Each year, HF-L Enrichment Services, in partnership with eighth grade social studies teachers, arrange to have a Holocaust speaker meet with our students. We remember fondly our previous presenter, Angie Suss-Paul, who passed away last August. She will be greatly missed. 

This program demonstrates commitments established under the District’s Strategic Plan, to foster respect for diversity and provide students with programs and opportunities that meet their diverse interests.