This week, the fifth grade celebrated the culmination of several important curricular themes, including empathy, compassion, resilience, pride, family and heritage. The Heritage Fair began with meaningful remarks and Tehillim by Rabbi Shain, setting the tone for the event. This was followed by songs representing various cultures around the world, and three dances showcasing Chasidic, Yemenite and Turkish traditions.

The highlight of the fair featured students proudly presenting their family heirlooms and written work, engaging with parents and answering questions as they toured the displays. After the parents departed, the students had the opportunity to hear from author Faye Silton, mother of our own Michal Kahan, and author of “Of Heroes, Hooks and Heirlooms. She shared insights into her writing process and how her participation in a contest led to the publication of her book. She also introduced an engaging hands-on project.

Students were so excited about the program, one said “ My parents mostly liked the singing because we sang Yiddish songs and they were surprised that we also sang Ladino songs.” Another student said, “My favorite part was the Yeminite dance called, ‘Mocher Prachim.’” About the heirlooms, one student said, “My parents were happy from how I presented the Siddur and to see me in the show.”

Overall, the Heritage Fair provided a deeply meaningful and enriching experience for everyone involved.