This week, the JKHA Middle School students learned about and celebrated Israel. On Wednesday, April 22nd, they began the day by expressing gratitude to the Israeli soldiers who gave their lives for the state of Israel and for those who continue to serve the country every day. Students attended an assembly which featured the story of an anonymous fallen soldier, and how a group of young students decided to welcome him as part of their family and visit him each year. Those students discussed the importance of recognizing that soldiers are, in fact, part of all Jewish families. The assembly included the screening of a video of the soldiers who fell in battle this past summer, the audience standing for a moment of silence and saying tefillot for Tzahal.

On Thursday, April 23rd, Yom Ha’atzmaut, the school celebrated with a festive chagigah of spirited dancing, a “Kochavei Kushner” competition, and a delicious barbecue lunch, courtesy of the JKHA PTC. After lunch, Color War broke out for the fifth grade, while the sixth through eighth grades participated in exciting, meaningful and engaging Israel experiences with their teachers. The day ended with a game of Israel Family Feud and sports activities. It was a thrilling and impactful way to spend the week: celebrating and connecting with Israel.