In anticipation of an upcoming communal Havdalah, the JKHA third and fourth grades prepared both physically and mentally.

The classes spent time discussing what a special gift Shabbat is to the Jewish people, and each child shared why Shabbat is special to them. The discussion became a springboard to delve into the meaning and significance of Havdala. They participated in an exciting, hands-on activity with Rabbi Yisroel Rosenblum from the Living Legacy Heritage program. They learned about the meaning behind the aish (candles) and the besamim (spices). The students then made their own Havdalah candles and besamim bags to use at the Havdalah program held at school on Motzei Shabbat, February 6, for the students and their families.

Dressed in their Shabbat finest, the students and families joined together to usher out Shabbat; beautiful singing was heard throughout the building followed by ruach-filled dancing.

Just as Havdala marks the beginning of a new week, the event marked the start of the second half of the year in a special and unified way.