Pesach came early to Ma’ayanot as students delved into multiple learning and experiential programs about the chag, all building excitement for its arrival. Every Gemara class has chosen aspects of the Yom Tov and explored its meaning, making the count down personal and inspiring. The ninth and 10th learned about the idea of heseiba (leaning) and were able to enhance the experience and internalize the lessons of freedom by making pillowcases for the seder table. The 11th and 12th focused on different thematic elements of matzah, exploring the ideas of b’chipazon, lechem oni and more. All Ma’ayanot students also participated in the NCSY pre-Pesach yom iyun and heard inspiring shiurim from Shimi Adar, Rabbi Moshe Benovitz and others. Participating and learning with over 700 participants from various schools really inspired students to feel connected to klal Yisrael!
Throughout the week, Advisory groups enjoyed an interactive program exploring the artistic depictions of the four sons throughout the ages and in various Haggadot. Students analysed these depictions and shared personal connections to the different aspects of the four sons. Elana Kaplan, educator at The Metropolitan Museum of Art; Mummies and Masterpieces Department, conducted a fascinating virtual museum tour of Ancient Egyptian art relating the exhibit to Yetziat Mitzrayim for the entire school. Students on the Holiday Enhancement Crew (HEC) decorated a hallway, making Pesach a real presence with themes such as makot, a Seder table, matzah oven and more. HEC also published a Haggadah Companion booklet featuring student artwork, divrei Torah, Seder minhagim, games and jokes.
Last but not least, the Ma’ayanei Torah Pesach Edition has been published with thoughtful divrei Torah by both Ma’ayanot students and faculty. Thank you to Aliza Cohn (‘21) and Sonia Weiner (‘21), editors-in-chief, for their hard work on the latest edition. Preparing for the chag has brought so much excitement to school and inspired everyone to appreciate Pesach fully. Chag Kasher V’Sameach!
