Tenafly Chabad Academy students in grades five through eight gathered as a school community to mark the anniversary of October 7, a date that will forever resonate in their hearts. Together, they commemorated the profound events of last Simchat Torah, reflecting on the impact that day had not only on individuals and families but on the entire Jewish people. Beyond remembrance, they also celebrated the strong sense of Jewish identity, resilience and unity that flourished in the aftermath—a testament to Hashem’s unwavering presence, the miracles witnessed and the mitzvot that have illuminated the past year.

TCA joined schools worldwide in a unified global Mishnayot study project, organized by the World Mizrachi Organization, to commemorate October 7. Following this special learning, they recited four chapters of Tehillim. Students then viewed two special presentations, both of which offered invaluable lessons of resilience and bitachon (trust in Hashem). The first, October 7: Forever Impact, featured Rabbi Neuberger who addressed questions from children across Bergen County yeshivot, including TCA’s own Ester Levi who represented the school with much grace and pride. The second presentation featured the story of Sapir Cohen, a former hostage who endured 55 days of captivity. Rabbi Shain further strengthened students by offering words of chizuk that were both inspiring and heartfelt. Together, everyone prayed for Hashem’s redemption through more singing and prayer.

This moving morning concluded with a slideshow of inspirational images and songs from Israel, a reminder of the resilience and beauty of Am Yisrael. While the slideshow played, students participated in a school-wide art project, each child contributing their creativity to a collective masterpiece dedicated to this day.