ADL Southwest will officially honor three Houston-area educators with the 2025 Walter Kase Educator Excellence Award at 11:00 am, May 8 at Holocaust Museum Houston.

Recipients include Rabbi Laura Sheinkopf, Director of Jewish Life and Upper School Judaic Studies at The Emery/Weiner School; Michael J. Curl, Principal of Kingwood Middle School in the Humble Independent School District; and Kim Jackson, Counselor at Calder Road Elementary School in the Dickinson Independent School District.

The Walter Kase Educator Excellence Award is presented annually to three educators for their outstanding efforts to create an atmosphere in their schools that rejects prejudice and regards diversity as a strength. It was named in memory of beloved Holocaust Survivor Walter Kase, who spent many years speaking to students about the horrors he experienced in the Holocaust, the dangers of hate, and the value of love.

“This year’s recipients are exceptional educators and so deserving of an award in Walter’s name,” said ADL Education Director Dr. Chantel L. Henderson. “Each one of them has worked hard to uphold and continue Walter’s mission of fighting hate.”

Rabbi Sheinkopf is being honored for her dedication to providing a variety of perspectives for her students and making sure all voices are heard. She created Emery/Weiner’s Senior Sippur Program, aptly named, because the Hebrew word “Sippur” means “story.” Each year, 18-20 seniors are selected to tell a deeply personal story. It could deal with bullying, suicide, eating disorders, mental health struggles, or other personal issues. One particularly powerful story came from one of the few Black students at the school. He spoke of the challenges he faced in a predominantly Jewish school, and the importance of solidarity between Blacks and Jews.

Kingwood Middle School Principal Michael J. Curl works hard to foster a culture of respect and inclusivity at his school, which has received an ADL No Place for HateÒ designation numerous times. The school has an Anti-Bullying Committee, holds annual Community Mental Wellness Summits, and has created a Holocaust Garden of Remembrance. The Garden serves as a tangible symbol of  honoring history, rejecting hate, and promoting mutual appreciation. Principal Curl also provides staff with cultural awareness training and celebrates the various ethnic, cultural and religious traditions represented in the school.

Counselor Kim Jackson has created programs and events that focus on building a culture of kindness, understanding and respect at Calder Road Elementary School. During Unity Week, students learn about the importance of creating a positive school climate and focus on bullying prevention. Her Multicultural Night celebrates the diverse backgrounds, cultures and traditions of her students’ families.  The school’s Great Kindness Challenge, which takes place during Holocaust Remembrance Week, reinforces an atmosphere of kindness and respect. Also, the “Start with Hello” program, aimed at ending social isolation, encourages students to reach out, connect, and build meaningful relationships with their peers.

These three dedicated educators will receive the Walter Kase Educator Excellence Award at 11 a.m., May 8, at Holocaust Museum Houston.  The event’s keynote speaker will be Kinder Institute for Urban Research Director Dr. Ruth N. López Turley.

To register for the luncheon, click here.

For more information or to set up an interview, contact Dena Marks at 832-567-8843.