News
February 9, 2023Greater Capital Region Teacher Center Holocaust Education Series
In recent years, there has been a significant spike in hate-fueled violence throughout the country, with New York State continuing to lead the nation in antisemitic incidents. According to the Anti-Defamation League, 2021 was the highest year on record for documented reports of harassment, vandalism and violence directed against Jews. Preliminary data suggests that 2022 will be even higher, prompting Governor Hochul to announce the launch of a new statewide Hate and Bias Prevention Unit this past December. The unit will be responsible for promoting acceptance, inclusion, tolerance, and understanding of diversity as required by recent legislation.
Education has been a longstanding key component in combatting antisemitism. New York State school districts are required to teach about the Holocaust appropriately as part of classroom instruction aligned with the NYS Social Studies Learning Standards set in 1996, and updated in 2022. By engaging students to think critically about the events of the Holocaust and it’s influence on social issues continuing to unfold in our world today, educators can empower their students to become responsible citizens who recognize and prevent future acts of injustice and hate.
The Greater Capital Region Teacher Center, based in Albany, has partnered with Echoes & Reflections, a national organization dedicated to reshaping the way educators and students understand, process, and navigate the world through the events of the Holocaust. Beginning this March and continuing through early April, they are offering New York State educators a comprehensive and carefully developed professional learning program, at no cost, in order to amplify the skills needed to teach about the Holocaust in a responsible and meaningful way.
Under the guide of expert facilitators, educators will meet online weekly for a series of six individually focused areas of study, and will be provided with access to a range of classroom- ready content and instructional strategies that can be easily adapted for any subject matter. This series is open to all educators, and upon completion, can be used to provide hours toward CTLE requirements. Community members may also participate on a space-available basis.
Register through the Greater Capital Region Teacher Center at www.teachers-center.org.
