While Bradley Middle School sixth- and seventh-graders took their Math and Reading TAKS tests, the eighth-graders had the opportunity to take a break from testing and learn more about the world around them.

DeCee Cornish, and Urban Grio Storyteller, visited the school to share unique stories with historical relevance with the school's eighth-graders. Typically Cornish visits the school in February to promote Black History Month, but he postponed his visit to better accommodate the school's schedule.

The Jewish Community Center put the school in contact with Virna Riposa, who came to speak to the students about the Holocaust and the importance of remembering the event. In addition to her speaking, she shared a film with the students.

"It's important to know about the Holocaust today because we can't forget the loss of the six million lives that were taken," said Taylor Johnson, Bradley student. "If we forget them, we become victims ourselves. We must also remember what they went through so we can be sure it won't occur again. Although they lost their lives, they left their stories behind. We should learn about what they went though, and keep their memories alive."

Bradley English Teacher Sharon Utley organized Holocaust Centers for the students to rotate through. Students could use this rotation opportunity to reflect and connect to the presentation.

"So many tragic things happened during the Holocaust," said Kelsey Bates, Bradley student. "But they kept going, trying not to get too discouraged, and that amazes me the most. The most important thing I learned about the Holocaust was the strength of the children, the strength of their hearts and minds."

The Heart of Texas (H.O.T.) Hounds group visited the school as well and taught students about the history of greyhounds. This gave students an opportunity to learn what happens to the dogs that are no longer wanted at the race track. The H.O.T. Hounds local rescue agency works to place the hounds in welcoming families.

Nancy Clayton also visited the school to share her drums and stories.