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Teens Fighting Antisemitism

Student-to-Student

Jewish teens sharing their stories with non-Jewish peers, one classroom at a time, disrupting the ignorance that feeds antisemitism.
Apply to Be an Ambassador Nominate a Student

Personal stories change minds

Originally created by Be the Narrative, a national nonprofit organization, STS has been operating for over 30 years and has been validated through independent research to change the lives of both Jewish and non-Jewish teens. By building bridges of understanding and appreciation between faiths, STS aims to disrupt patterns of ignorance and hatred that lead to antisemitism.

Teen Ambassadors present in teams of about four, free of charge, within a normal class period, sharing their personal narratives, walking through aspects of Jewish life and culture, and showing the diversity of the Jewish community. For many students, it's the first time they've met a Jewish peer. Above all, it's an open, honest conversation, not a lecture.

83%of teachers say STS breaks down stereotypes and engages their students
84%of students went on to share what they learned or learn more about Judaism

What a presentation looks like

A team of three or four ambassadors leads each visit, ideally representing different branches of Judaism. They connect to what a class is already studying and cover topics like the branches of Judaism, the Jewish life cycle, Shabbat, the Hebrew language, Israel, the holidays, and antisemitism and the Holocaust, and they bring props that make it real: challah to share, a shofar, Shabbat candlesticks, and personal pieces of Judaica.

Then they open the floor. Students ask anything, and the discussion that follows is the most important part of the visit. Presentations fit within the class period and are built to enhance the classroom curriculum, in partnership with teachers and administrators.

The impact goes beyond the classroom

Understanding doesn't end when the bell rings.

After a Student to Student visit, peers come away understanding what it means to be Jewish today, along with a greater awareness of both our differences and the things we share. Research shows they're also more likely to speak up, to interrupt antisemitism when they see it, inside and outside of school.

94%of teachers say students keep discussing what they learned afterward
78%of teachers say STS helped counter antisemitism at their school

Made possible by the Peter & Elaine Chortek BRIDGE Initiative

Financial support for Student to Student is provided through the generosity of the Chortek Weissman Family, as part of The Peter & Elaine Chortek BRIDGE Initiative, Building Resilient Identity & Deep Global Engagement. The BRIDGE Initiative honors the Chorteks' legacy by investing in the next generation, ensuring that Peter and Elaine's values of dignity, service, resilience, and global peoplehood continue dor l'dor, from generation to generation.

What people say

"They were phenomenal, so relatable and passionate, with such clever approaches to engaging students. I appreciated that they taught about Judaism first, and addressed the Holocaust and antisemitism after. It shows that Judaism is a rich culture existing today, not something seen only through the eyes of history books."

Participating teacher

"The presentation expanded my knowledge about Jewish Americans. I learned about various Hebrew terms, their norms, and who they truly are."

San Diego Met High School student

"I always leave presentations with an incredible sense of accomplishment, realizing that through this program I really could change some of the problems in the world today."

Student to Student presenter

Get involved

Spend a small amount of time to make a big impact.

Teens: become an ambassador

Open to Jewish high school students in San Diego County (grades 9–12). You'll get training, a team, and community-service hours, no experience needed, just your voice.

Apply to STS

Know a great candidate?

Nominate a Jewish high school student who would make a strong Student to Student ambassador, and we'll reach out to them.

Nominate a Student

Teachers & schools: want to host a presentation? Email us to bring a team of ambassadors to your classroom.

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply?
Jewish students in grades 9–12 at public and private schools across San Diego County. Students don't need to be affiliated with any Jewish organization, congregation, or denomination.
How much time does it take?
A big impact for a small commitment: a one-day orientation plus occasional educational gatherings, and presenting at least 1–2 times per semester. All of it counts toward community-service hours.
Who gives the presentations?
Teams of three or four students, ideally representing different branches of Judaism.
Where do presentations happen?
In public and private middle and high schools, often in world history, literature, ethnic studies, human geography, and comparative-religion classes.
What do presentations cover?
Ambassadors share their personal stories and touch on topics such as:
  • The branches of Judaism and who the Jewish people are
  • The Jewish life cycle and Shabbat
  • Antisemitism and the Holocaust
  • Israel, the Hebrew language, and the Jewish calendar and holidays
They bring props (challah, a shofar, Shabbat candlesticks, and personal Judaica) and leave plenty of room for questions.
How do students prepare?
Materials and coaching are provided, and each team practices together so every ambassador feels confident. Because so much of the presentation reflects students' own experiences, they arrive with much of what they need.
When do presentations take place?
During the school day. Students receive letters to excuse their absence, and we can help coordinate rides to and from a presentation if needed.

Questions? We’re here.

Apply to Be an Ambassador Nominate a Student

Alex Kaufman

Resilient & Secure Community Program Manager