Students in the Jewish Educational Center’s three divisions: Yeshiva of Elizabeth, Rav Teitz Mesivta Academy and Bruriah High School celebrated Yom Ha’atzmaut with guest speakers, celebrations, song, dance, and an array of special delicacies and activities.

On Yom Ha’zikaron, the previous day, students in all three divisions observed a moment of silence at 11 a.m. to the sound of the siren heard throughout the country in Israel. A series of multimedia presentations, guest speakers and workshops were experienced.

Rabbi Yosef Blau, Mashgiach Ruchani at Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary and President of Mizrachi—Religious Zionists of America, spoke to students of RTMA about Zionism. He shared personal anecdotes of his own family’s experiences in Israel and serving in the IDF. Students of the middle school celebrated Yom Ha’atzmaut with Jewish Agency community Israeli shaliach Maor Tiri and enjoyed a festive meal.

Bruriah Junior High students had a special Skype session with Jr. High Coordinator Zehava Greenwald’s parents, Rabbi and Mrs. Moshe Benisti. The Benistis made Aliyah six years ago and have been living in Ashkelon. The girls heard about what inspired the Benistis to move to Israel, as well as what life is like there today. They got to learn about a מעמד (safe room) and find out what occurs during an air raid or emergency siren.

Part of the Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration at Yeshiva of Elizabeth was marked with the dedication of a prayer for the State of Israel and the welfare of soldiers in the IDF.