During the first full week of June, Ben Porat Yosef students from fourth grade and up experienced non traditional learning. Fourth grade students took a ferry ride from Liberty State Park to Ellis Island, seeing the Statue of Liberty along the way. Once on the island they explored the museum’s three floors of exhibits, learning more about the history of Ellis Island and the lives of millions whose immigration was processed there. This enhanced their ongoing study of immigration, which included reading historical fiction books about that time period.

Fifth graders had a meaningful trip to the Teaneck Food Pantry, learning about food insecurity in school and brainstorming ideas of how to help. At the Teaneck Food Pantry they heard from four staff members about their services and had a tour of the pantry. Each student brought something to donate and shelved the donations. The students asked many thoughtful questions.

Sixth and seventh grade students had an overnight in Camp Monroe, enjoying Mad Science, and many physical activities such as zip lining and go-carting. They experienced a meaningful tefillah amidst beautiful surroundings.

The eighth grade enjoyed their final overnight trip together. As a grade they selected a trip to Lake George after teams of students each presented their choice of destination. Students explored the trip venue, activities and cost, and then voted. In Lake George they experienced hiking, zip lining, picnics, shiurim and a strong sense of ruach and friendship.