At Ma’ayanot, the Israel education program is designed to allow students to love and support Medinat Yisrael while developing the skills and knowledge necessary to become actively engaged Zionists. Teachers provide a comprehensive education about the history, personalities, accomplishments and challenges of the early Zionist, the establishment of the state and also dig into the complex issues facing contemporary Israel. Students study the Israeli-Palestinian conflict delving into the dual narratives and the varied peace proposals. Ma’ayanot has partnered with Unpacked Media, an Israel Education organization to integrate text and videos that strive to clarify the fundamental issues at the heart of the Israeli Palestinian conflict. As students make their way on to college campuses and into the workforce, they will always be confronted by others who have different views on these issues. It’s important for students to appreciate the layers of debate that Israelis are facing so that they can engage on the issues openly and intelligently.

Ma’ayanot Alum Tamar Cohen (‘18) spoke to the entire 12th grade about her experience making aliyah and gave a virtual guided tour of the Herzl Museum, where she completed her sherut leumi.

Currently, the course is diving into the complexities of 1948, looking at the different consequences the establishment of Medinat Yisrael had for both Israelis and Palestinians. The next topics will focus on Palestinian refugees, Mizrahi Jews and Israeli Arabs. These experiential programs help students develop an excitement and love for the achievements of the State of Israel and the ability to engage on all of the issues it is facing.