Over 100 Newton Falls students from the classes of Mrs. Denvir, Mrs. Reynolds, and Mr. Bugos traveled to Stambaugh Stadium on November 6 to hear the story of Erika Gold, a Holocaust survivor whose testimony continues to inspire and educate new generations.
Born in Budapest, Hungary in 1932, Erika lived through the horrors of the Holocaust as a child. She and her mother survived after jumping off a truck bound for deportation and hiding until Budapest was liberated. During her talk, Erika shared how antisemitism shaped her early life, the lasting impact of surviving the Holocaust, and her continued mission to fight antisemitism and Holocaust denial through education and awareness.
The trip was student opt-in, and the level of interest was so strong that the district added an additional bus to accommodate everyone who wanted to attend. Students were deeply moved by Erika’s message of resilience, empathy, and the importance of standing up against hate in all forms.
One of our own students, Peyton Evans, was even featured in the Tribune Chronicle’s coverage of the event, reflecting on the experience and its impact. You can read the full article here:
🔗 Holocaust survivor shares her story with area students
A Team Effort
Special thanks go out to our transportation department, which quickly responded to the need for additional seating, and to our cafeteria team, who made sure every student had access to lunch upon their late return. Their flexibility and teamwork helped make this important experience possible for our students.
This day served as a profound reminder that education extends far beyond the classroom — it’s about understanding humanity, history, and the choices that define who we are.