Understanding the Past to Benefit the Future
recipients: Shannon Fox, Braham High School, Braham, Minnesota
date: 2019

Working with several departments at Braham High School, Shannon Fox created a mosaic of learning by inviting a Holocaust survivor to speak and having the entire student body create a related gallery of knowledge. Holocaust survivor Fred Amram spoke to over 500 students and 100 community members. As a welcome to him, the Social Studies Department presented trifold-displayed Holocaust research projects, the Art Department created tolerance themed sculptures and posters, and the English Department wrote poetry and essays on the subjects. All of these creations culminated in a Holocaust Museum people could walk through to understand the atrocities of the Holocaust. The feedback was amazing and many had tears in their eyes as Mr. Amram spoke. The students showed the utmost respect and gained valuable insight into one of history’s darkest times. The impact of the project was the opening of hearts and minds in the hopes that history won’t repeat itself.