Jewish teens sharing their stories with non-Jewish peers, one classroom at a time, disrupting the ignorance that feeds antisemitism.
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.
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.
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.
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.
"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
Spend a small amount of time to make a big impact.
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 STSNominate a Jewish high school student who would make a strong Student to Student ambassador, and we'll reach out to them.
Nominate a StudentTeachers & schools: want to host a presentation? Email us to bring a team of ambassadors to your classroom.
