Congratulations to Mrs. Helen Tsipliareles-Pryor, Young Scholars Teacher at

Ruffner Middle Academy for being honored with the 2012 Esther Goldman Teacher Award for

Excellence by The Holocaust Commission of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater. This award is

given annually to recognize teachers who have incorporated the critical lessons of the Holocaust into their

curriculum. In doing so, this helps students understand the connection between history and the moral

decisions that they make in their lives, allowing teachers to impart values of personal accountability,

moral courage, and justice.

This academic award is given in memory of Holocaust survivor, Esther Goldman, whose life was

an inspiration to everyone she touched. Each person who knew Esther was uplifted by her courage to live

when dying was easier; her commitment to sharing her story so that young people understand the dangers

of prejudice; her resilience and optimism; and her love of family and the many people who were fortunate

to be her friend. Mrs. Pryor was selected for this award from among her colleagues, and serves as a model

of how educators can nurture values that all Americans cherish.

Ms. Elena Barr-Baum, Director of the Holocaust Commission presented the following statement

made by Mrs. Pryor during the ceremony, “What better way to explain human spirit and endurance than

to teach the Holocaust. We do this so that our students can learn from tragedies that occurred in the past,

and to guide them in contributing to the good of society in the future. Learning from history, particularly

with events pertaining to the Holocaust, teaches right from wrong, compassion and empathy,

understanding, and respect; and makes them aware that there is no limit to the evils that can occur and no

limit to what can be done today to make sure something like this never happens again. No matter how

must time has passed since the Holocaust, no matter how humane we may think we are, no matter what

technology we now possess, and no matter how safe we may feel; we must stay vigilant and actively work

to eliminate racism, cruelty, and hatred.”

Mrs. Pryor was presented with her award on April 19, 2012 at Congregation Beth El in Norfolk

during an evening of prayer and remembrance for Yom Hashoah. Additionally, she will receive a full

scholarship to attend the Teacher Education Institute at the Virginia Holocaust Museum in Richmond, and

the Holocaust Commission will provide her with a bus to take her students on a field trip to visit the

museum.