Our free professional development sessions provide educators with the foundation needed to confidently teach the Holocaust using the VHEC’s new online teaching resource, Fragments in Focus: The History of the Holocaust. Participants are introduced to the unique features of this resource, including the inquiry-based learning strategies that engage students with local primary sources of Holocaust history. Suitable for educators of all experience in teaching the Holocaust from Grades 6 to 12.

Participants will receive ready-to-use lesson plans and resources covering:
• The Power of Objects: Teaching the Holocaust with Primary Sources
• Defining the Holocaust and its Core Elements
• Addressing Common Student Misconceptions about the Holocaust
• Guidelines for Teaching About the Holocaust
• Practical Strategies for Using Fragments in Focus in the Classroom

What Educators Are Saying:

“I enjoyed this Pro-D. It was focused, the resources are excellent, and I have so many ideas to support my planning and collaboration with faculty.”

“Fragments in Focus is an amazing website and virtual museum that will be a valuable, hands-on resource for my students for project research and class activities.”

“This is an excellent resource: in-depth and accurate.”

About the Presenters:

Lise Kirchner, Director of Education, Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre

Lise leads the VHEC’s resource and curriculum development, school programs and teacher training initiatives. She brings decades of experience in designing and delivering educational programs and exhibitions. Her work has included projects that enhance the accessibility and pedagogical use of the VHEC’s collection of artefacts and Holocaust survivor testimonies. Lise previously practised law in Vancouver, specializing in labour, employment and human rights.

Ellie Lawson, Manager of Education, Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre

Ellie develops educational resources and delivers programs for schools, educators, professionals and the public. She holds a master’s degree in Public History from Indiana University, Indianapolis, with expertise in Holocaust and genocide studies. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with Holocaust survivors, their descendants and survivors of other human rights violations, helping to amplify their stories and experiences.

Contact us at education@vhec.org to register for one of our sessions near you: