Notes from Principal Dunham: Carry the Torch

Yesterday, all of our 8^th grade students from both Camillus Middle School and West Genesee Middle School had the incredible opportunity to hear the story of perseverance, determination, faith and hope from Holocaust survivor Marion Blumenthal Lazan. If you don’t know about her you should set aside a few minutes and check out her life story and work here: www.fourperfectpebbles.com/ It truly is remarkable and speaks to the human spirit and ability to survive and get through incredibly difficult and catastrophic times.

This is the last generation that will hear these stories from the people that lived through them. It is on all of us to continue to share these stories and to study and teach about the horror of the Holocaust to make sure that it never happens again. In addition to experiencing her firsthand account of this dark period in history, our students were challenged by Mrs. Lazan to carry the torch of justice and freedom with them throughout their lives:

“We must live with love, respect, compassion and tolerance towards one another. It starts with each of us. We all must look for similarities and respect our differences.”

At a time where hatred unfortunately continues to show its' ugly face, having our students learn from the past and continue to keep watch to speak up and stand up whenever they see intolerance, injustice and hatred is incredibly important.

Students of the Month

As we turned the calendar into May we recognized our new ‘Students of the Month’. We continue to have students, who through their actions and character, help to create a positive school environment. Choosing ‘Students of the Month’ isn’t about grades and athletic or musical prowess, it’s about demonstrating all of the qualities that we value and celebrate - exemplary work ethic, citizenship, character, compassion, honesty, trustworthiness, responsibility, optimism and/or leadership in creating a positive school environment.

This month we recognized 6^th graders Hannah Sparks, Bridget Dunham, Charlie Searle, and Michael Hess, 7^th graders Michael Dedrick, Ryan Considine, Nani Ross, and Mariya Kostiv, 8^th graders Cameron Hovater, Connor Jacuk, Ella Robertson, and Anna Caruso. Well deserved and congratulations to all!