The Wheatley School recently hosted a special presentation by Tom Glaser, a distinguished member of the Class of 1968, who shared an account of his father’s survival during the Holocaust. The event engaged students from Regional Studies and Participation in Government classes, as well as student officers from the SEC, Intercultural Unity (ICU) and No Place for Hate School clubs.

Glaser’s presentation aligned with the school’s ongoing work to cultivate the students’ understanding of what happens when discrimination and hatred are left unchecked. It served as a reminder that while the Holocaust remains a challenging subject for any age, group, taking the time to understand and remember what happened is the most effective tool in preventing future instances of discrimination and hatred.

The powerful experience of hearing an account of Holocaust survival from a former Wheatley School student provided the students with a deeper understanding of the lasting impact of such a horrific event. Following the presentation, the students reflected on what resonated with them and captured their sentiments by writing messages on paper leaves. Many of these messages conveyed sympathy for what Glaser’s father endured and emphasized the collective commitment to “never again.” Glaser gathered the students’ messages for a collaborative project with the Vermont Holocaust Memorial, which aims to collect 1.5 million leaves, symbolizing the 1.5 million children who tragically perished during the Holocaust.

Glaser shares a special connection to the East Williston Union Free School District, as both he and his wife Jill, who joined him for the presentations, are alumni of the district. In addition, Glaser’s brother George, a graduate of the school in 1965, is honored annually with a scholar-athlete award bearing his name.