FAQ

Who can apply to Paper Bridges? 
The program is open to public and private high school teachers, grades 9–12, who currently teach or will be teaching in the 2025–2026 academic year courses or units on the Holocaust. Teachers and classes may be in any discipline:  history, literature, social studies, etc. We welcome people with multiple heritages, people of color, LGBTQ+ participants, and non-Jewish participants.   
 
What are the dates of this year's program? 
The in-person program at the Yiddish Book Center will run July 20–25, 2025. Participation in monthly Zoom meetings held during the 2025–-2026 academic year is required. Zoom meeting times will be determined once the cohort has been selected.   
 
What is the application deadline? 
To apply for the program, please submit an online application by March 9, 2025.  
 
What does the program cost? 
Accepted participants will receive a travel subsidy to attend the in-person workshop. Every accepted participant also receives a scholarship covering the full cost of tuition, room, board, books, and special events during the summer workshop. Participants will also receive a $1,000 stipend: $500 upon completion of the summer workshop, and $500 after submission of required program materials. 
 
What are the program requirements? 
To receive the participation stipend, all participants must attend the in-person seminar in July 2025, attend the monthly zoom meetings during the 2025–-2026 school year, and prepare and teach a lesson using at least one source from the seminar in their class during the year. Participants will present their lesson plan to the cohort over Zoom. These presentations will be recorded and may be shared on the Yiddish Book Center’s website for use by other educators.   
 
Where would I stay? 
Housing will be provided in Hampshire College dormitories in single rooms with all-gender bathrooms. Participants who wish to stay off campus may do so at their own expense. 
 
Where would I eat? 
Full meal plans will be provided at the Hampshire College dining hall. The college dining services offer a diverse selection of nutritious foods and beverages, including extensive vegetarian options. The dining hall staff work hard to accommodate allergies and special dietary needs. Let us know in advance about any dietary restrictions or preferences.  
 
Is kosher food available? 
While the Hampshire dining hall does not serve kosher food, we provide alternative kosher meals for participants who request them in advance. Kosher and non-kosher participants eat together in the dining hall, with disposable plates and utensils provided for kosher food.

What is the Yiddish Book Center's COVID-19 policy for summer residential programs? 
You can find our COVID-19 policy here. The Yiddish Book Center will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and, if necessary, will send updated guidance to summer program participants, staff, and faculty closer to the program dates.