General and Jewish History Teachers Gain Practical Tools in Virtual Training

Dozens of educators joined a Historia training session hosted by the Merkos Chinuch Office, featuring veteran educator Mrs. Ella Lerman, Educator for over 40 years, who shared practical strategies to help teachers bring history to life in their classrooms.

The interactive Zoom training focused on helping students move beyond memorizing dates and facts to developing a deeper understanding of historical events and their broader context. Drawing on her extensive classroom experience, Mrs. Lerman demonstrated clear, structured methods that help students organize historical information and retain it in meaningful ways.

Among the strategies presented were approaches for building effective historical timelines, integrating geography through maps, strengthening vocabulary, and guiding students to take organized notes that support comprehension and long-term retention. The goal, she explained, is to help students see history as a connected narrative rather than a list of isolated events.

Teachers also noted that Mrs. Lerman’s approach helps students connect world history, Jewish events, geography, and language, allowing them to see the larger story unfolding across generations.

Mrs. Sterna Kasowitz, a teacher and Shlucha in Minnesota, shared, “Mrs. Ella Lerman presents Jewish history with incredible knowledge, passion, and warmth. She weaves together timelines, world history, maps, and Jewish events in a way that makes it all feel so relevant and meaningful. There is truly so much teachers—and adults as well—can gain from learning from her.”

Beyond the tools shared, the evening sparked enthusiasm among educators eager to continue collaborating and exchanging ideas. To support this, the Chinuch Office launched a dedicated Historia teachers’ WhatsApp group where educators can share resources, discuss strategies, and support one another throughout the year.

The session is part of the Merkos Chinuch Office’s ongoing efforts to provide teachers with practical professional development and opportunities for meaningful collaboration.

Educators who were unable to attend the live training can access the recording and materials, which were shared with participants following the event.