May is....

Jewish American Heritage Month, observed each May, is a nationwide celebration that highlights the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States. The observance provides an opportunity to reflect on both the challenges Jewish communities have faced such as discrimination and antisemitism and their enduring contributions to advancing justice, equality, and cultural understanding. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the first Jewish female justice of the Supreme Court, stated, “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.”

In March of 2026, all SLVUSD students in grades 4-12 attended age-appropriate plays that highlight the harsh history of the Holocaust as seen through Anne Frank's eyes. SLVUSD encourages staff, students, and community members to remember and celebrate Jewish American Heritage and the importance of Jewish Americans’ role in communities, and that is why we flew the actors out to SLV schools.

Here is what the Anne Frank Center USA states on their website:

"We deliver programs directly to schools and communities that empower young people to become courageous changemakers by fostering empathy, understanding and action against intolerance. Through the powerful lens of Anne Frank’s diary, we inspire the next generation to learn from the past, challenge prejudice and build a more compassionate and just future."

Family-Friendly Ways to Celebrate at Home

Read Together

Explore books that highlight Jewish stories, traditions, and voices:

Middle School Recommendations:

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
• The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz
• Refugee by Alan Gratz
• All Three Stooges by Erica S. Perl
• Linked by Gordon Korman

Learn About Inspiring Jewish Americans

Research together:

• Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Supreme Court Justice and advocate for equality)
• Albert Einstein (scientist who changed how we understand the universe)
• Elie Wiesel (writer and human rights advocate)
• Steven Spielberg (award-winning filmmaker)
• Sandy Koufax (Hall of Fame athlete)

AANHPI theme for 2026 is, "Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together”. The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) theme highlights the importance of leveraging collective power, telling stories, and being bridge builders in communities. The bridge inspires a sense for all of us to unite together around common causes.

The month of May is a time to reflect and celebrate the important role that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) have played in our shared history and SLVUSD. Jenny Han shares, “Follow your passions, and tell the stories that you want to tell. If the passion is there, and creativity, then the audience will find it.”

AANHPI have contributed significantly in many facets of American culture and society, including science and medicine, literature and art, sports and recreation, government and politics, and activism and law.

Learn About Inspiring AANHPI Leaders

Research together:

Maya Lin (architect and designer)

Kalpana Chawla (astronaut)

Daniel Inouye (U.S. Senator and war hero)

Patsy Mink (first woman of color in Congress)

Duke Kahanamoku (Native Hawaiian athlete and ambassador)

Discuss Important Questions

Use these conversation starters:

Why is it important to learn about many cultures?

How can we celebrate differences respectfully?

What stereotypes might people face, and how can we challenge them?

How does our community benefit from diversity?

The 2026 Mental Health Awareness theme is “More Good Days, Together.” This theme focuses on fostering community connection, meeting individuals where they are, and providing tailored support to create more positive days. It emphasizes personalized approaches to mental wellness, recognizing that "good" is unique to each person.

ICAN Organization shares the 5 C’s of mental health in youth development:

Connections: Humans are special beings, and strong social connections are vital for mental well-being.

Compassion: Extending kindness and understanding to oneself and others can significantly impact mental health.

Coping: Developing healthy coping mechanisms for stress and difficult emotions is crucial for resilience.

Community: Being part of a supportive community provides social support and a sense of belonging.

Care: Prioritizing self-care, including physical and mental health practices, is essential for maintaining well-being.

• 988 Lifeline: In a crisis? Using the 988 Lifeline is free. You can call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and every day of the year.

• Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth): Their trained counselors understand the challenges LGBTQ+ young people face and are available for support 24/7. Call 1-866-488-7386 to speak with a live voice or text “START” to 678-678.