by George J Elbaum

“The New School of San Francisco is a tuition-free public school designed in partnership with local educators, parents, and community leaders. Inquiry, equity, and personalized learning are at the heart of how our students learn, grow, and thrive. We are currently serving Kindergarten through 8th grade.  Our mission is to demonstrate a holistic 21st century education that instills a love of learning now and prepares students and families for success in the future.  We believe in “Inquiry for All”—all children should go to school where they can drive their learning, ask big questions, and take risks. This belief fueled the creation of our school in 2015.”

Arrangements for my presentation were initiated by Sadie Simon of JFCS Holocaust Center and concluded by Patrick Dunne, its Office Manager.  The 3/6/2024 event at the school’s campus was organized by teacher Claudia Martinez (see 3rd photo below).

Notes from Students

A few weeks after my talk at The New School I received several dozen Thank You notes, and as is our custom, my wife Mimi and I read these together after our dinner, excerpted statements that most resonated with us, and these excerpts are shown below.

• You are so inspirational and so much of your story resonated and connected – especially about your mother.
• Thank you for your important message about the Golden Rule and being against all hate and prejudice.
• I loved your message about the Golden Rule, and holding an optimistic personal perspective even in the face of how awful humanity can be.
• You help us restore identity and humanity to everyone who can’t share their story.
• I learned about people who would risk their lives to provide Jews with a roof and food.
• I am sad that you weren’t able to live the childhood you wanted to live.
• May your woes be little and your happiness be many.
• I truly mean that your story is life-changing. It made me take a deep dive into history, and knowing your story I can understand how the wrath of the Holocaust impacts today’s society.
• Your story was a moving experience that helped open doors to what anti-Semitism is & how it happens.
• Your story impacted me in such a strong way that I won’t take a moment for granted.
• I appreciate your openness and the wisdom you brought to our class.
• Your story taught me so much & made me wonder more.