JKHA middle school had the privilege on Yom Hazikaron to hear from JKHA Parent Jesse Gadon. Gadon described Yom Hazikaron in Israel and how personal this day is for everyone there. A Major in the IDF, Gadon returned to fight with his unit in Gaza after October 7 and shared his experience and the dedication of the IDF to protecting and serving the country. He shared the stories of friends and comrades that were killed on and after October 7, keeping their memory alive. Gadon concluded by emphasizing the importance of achdut, our shared identity and the importance of Torat Yisrael, Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael. Every middle school teacher began each of their classes throughout the whole day by sharing the story of a fallen soldier.

JKHA Principal Rabbi Srolovitz led programs for the JKHA lower school grades. Students learned about Yom Hazikaron and how the day is commemorated in Israel. They focused on the ongoing experiences of the soldiers in Israel. Upon returning to their classrooms, LS students wrote letters of gratitude and chizuk to lone soldiers.