Jewish pride and love for Eretz Yisrael emanated throughout RKYHS as they celebrated Yom Ha’Atzmaut! After a beautiful tefillat chagigit, the entire JKHA and RKYHS gathered on the outdoor recreation space to kick off the day together with a tefillah for Israel, “Hatikvah,” and a special tefillah for those battling Israel’s fire. RKYHS students enjoyed a daglanut performance by the eighth grade then took to the field to lead the school in festive and ruach-filled dancing.

Throughout the day RKYHS immersed in meaningful and fun programming to mark the day. RKYHS had learning programs for the Kushner Climb omer program on kedushat ha’aretz, Israel advocacy session with Unpacked, the culmination of their project with teens in Ofakim, sand art and more. Students enjoyed the outdoor carnival as well as a delicious Yom Ha’Atzmaut barbecue in the picture-perfect weather.

The day concluded with a special school-wide kumsitz featuring the Y-Studs, including JKHA/RKYHS alum Josh Shapiro (JKHA ‘16/RKYHS ‘20)!