When you remember your school days, does a favorite teacher come to mind? Someone who encouraged you, sparked your curiosity, or influenced your path?
This Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re proud to spotlight a remarkable educator and Tanenbaum Education Advisory Member: Mary Houghtaling, an English teacher at Kittatinny High School.
Mary spearheaded the first-ever Holocaust and Genocide Research Center in a New Jersey high school. Mary’s learning center came together with support from over 52 students. Together, they organized manuscripts from Holocaust survivors, painted maps pinpointing regions impacted by genocide, and strengthened their understanding of how empathy and knowledge can prevent identity-based hate.
Mary and her students remind us that accurately learning about atrocities past and present shapes generations that are more informed, engaged, and committed to building a future grounded in mutual understanding and respect for diversity.
A heartfelt thank you to all educators this Teacher Appreciation Week— you continue to inspire us!
In unity,
Rev. Mark Fowler, CEO, Tanenbaum
*Tanenbaum’s Education Advisory Board is generously supported by The Nissan Foundation.