NPS Celebrates Jewish American Heritage Month

Norwalk Public Schools and the Norwalk Board of Education proudly recognizes May as Jewish American Heritage Month. We take this opportunity to celebrate the rich history, cultural traditions, and significant contributions that Jewish Americans have made—and continue to make—to our nation and our local community.

Jewish American Heritage Month was first proclaimed in May 2006 by President George W. Bush, following a bipartisan resolution in Congress and strong advocacy from the Jewish Museum of Florida and leaders in the South Florida Jewish community. The month of May was chosen in recognition of the successful 350th anniversary celebration of American Jewish history held in 2004, led by a coalition of respected historical institutions.

Here in Norwalk, we are committed to ensuring our students learn from and honor this history. In our 7th grade classrooms, students engage in a four-part inquiry-based unit titled The Holocaust Inquiry (Is It Ever Too Late to Remember?). Through this powerful curriculum, students explore critical questions about memory, justice, and human rights. These lessons are more than just history—they are a call to empathy, reflection, and action.

This year, our curriculum leaders Stacey Bergin and J’aime Ottaviano were invited by CT Voice of Hope to present Norwalk’s Holocaust Inquiry curriculum to educators across the state. Their presentation sparked meaningful conversation and inspired other districts to bring this thoughtful and important work into their own schools.

Jewish Americans have long been a vital part of the Norwalk community. Their voices, values, traditions, and achievements have helped shape the cultural fabric of our city and our schools. During Jewish American Heritage Month, we recognize and honor those contributions while standing firmly against antisemitism and all forms of hate.

By recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month, Norwalk Public Schools and the Norwalk Board of Education affirms our commitment to building a school community where diversity is honored and everyone belongs.