This past Monday, the youngest learners at Westchester Day School (ganon 2s—ganon 4s) came together for a meaningful, hands-on Sukkot building activity, transforming a classroom into a vibrant sukkah! Each class played a special role in the project. Ganon 3s began by collecting sticks and natural materials, symbolizing the connection between the natural world and this important mitzvah. Ganon Sagol and Ganon Adom built the sukkah’s frame, while Ganon Kachol and Ganon Yarok completed the structure by adding the roof. The Ganon 2s crafted the sukkah’s walls in their classrooms, making the entire endeavor a true group effort.

This interactive experience allowed the youngest learners to understand not only the practical aspects of building a sukkah but also the significance of these Jewish traditions—reminding us of Hashem’s protection and the impermanence of material possessions.

In addition to building the sukkah, students enjoyed making edible sukkahs in their classrooms. These fun and creative projects sparked further conversations about the holiday and gave students another way to connect to Sukkot’s themes of gratitude and joy.

A cherished WDS tradition also continued, as recent graduates were welcomed back to campus during Chol Hamoed Sukkot. Alumni whose schools were closed for the holiday returned to join current students and staff for davening, breakfast in the sukkah, reflections with eighth graders and time to visit their former teachers. This gathering provided a chance for alumni to reconnect while also allowing current students to see how the lessons learned at WDS continue to shape their peers beyond eighth grade.

This hands-on sukkah-building project and alumni gathering truly embodied the spirit of community that Westchester Day School holds dear. By engaging both students and alumni in the celebration of Sukkot, WDS strengthened the bonds among the community, deepening their understanding of the holiday and reinforcing the values of Torah, tradition and togetherness.