The RKYHS juniors participated in a three-day Israel Studies Seminar, jointly run by Bnei Akiva and RKYHS, at Bnei Akiva’s Camp Moshava. Students learned about Zionism and the history of the State of Israel from Israeli educators and Bnei Akiva madrichim and madrichot. Moshava’s setting created the ideal atmosphere for authentic learning while students enjoyed an exciting and fun-filled social and educational retreat. The three-day retreat focused on Israel’s history, accomplishments, and its central role for the Jewish people. Well-planned sessions emphasized Jewish identity, continuity and nationhood and the learning was interactive, informal and engaging.

The students also had the change to visit an Israel Museum and participate in an interactive and Israel-focused Escape the Room activity. They also participated in team-building exercises and enjoyed a bonfire kumzitz under the stars. The Israel Studies Seminar is an important grade event and it created shared memories for students to cherish and meaningful experiences to empower the next generation of Jewish leaders.