The JEC Lower School kicked off Adar with an amazing lineup of events leading into Purim. With each day bringing a new theme and activity, students experienced the excitement of Purim while learning valuable lessons about unity, resilience and giving back to the community.
Students kicked off the celebrations by dressing in blue and white or Israel-themed apparel for Israel Day. Students packaged Purim fun sheets and personal letters to children in Israel through the organization B’ezri. Throughout the afternoon, different grade groups participated in scheduled activities, fostering a sense of appreciation for the Jewish homeland. The excitement continued the next day with an interactive game show, Digital Dov. Each grade took turns competing in a lively and educational contest that was both entertaining and enriching. This event reinforced Jewish knowledge in a fun format. The Friday before Purim, all students were Shabbos Aba and Ima for the day, coming dressed in their fanciest attire for Fancy Friday. A special Shabbos party took place in classrooms for Early Childhood students, while the older grades gathered for a tisch full of Shabbos spirit and singing.
On Marathon Monday, students dressed in workout clothes or JEC apparel as they participated in resilience training led by Bruriah MS girls. This activity was the perfect culminating program after a month-long challenge connected to the “Power of Growth” theme for Shevat where students picked a midah to work on and grow in. The midot they chose were inspired by the life and legacy of Rav Teitz zt”l. Marathon Monday focused on perseverance and inner strength, qualities that align with the Purim story’s themes of courage and determination. Tuesday saw a special Purim Play put on by the JEC Lower School’s fourth graders, bringing the Purim story to life.
Wednesday was the eagerly awaited Purim Carnival & Costume Day. Students came to school dressed in their Purim costumes for a fun-filled day of celebrations. Students had a blast jumping in bounce houses and dancing at the Purim chagiga. As Purim is not only about celebration but also about giving, students participated in a Yom Chessed on Taanit Esther by packaging Mishloach Manot for JFS, decorating bags for chayalim through “Beef up our Boys,” and older students visiting survivors to bring song and cheer. Each grade took part in acts of kindness, emphasizing the importance of giving to others, a core theme of Purim.
With this incredible schedule of events, the JEC Lower School ensured that students experienced the full joy and meaning of Purim through learning, fun and acts of kindness.
