On Monday morning, Pesach Sheini, the entire student body at TCA, from grades 1—8, took part in a truly unforgettable and moving experience, one that will surely stay with them for a long time. In celebration of the miraculous release of Edan Alexander, students came together to learn, pray and stand in unity with Am Yisrael.
In the lower school, students in grades 1—4 gathered in the lobby to watch the moments leading up to Edan’s release on a large screen. For months, during morning assemblies, they have spoken about the mitzvah of the day in Edan Alexander’s merit. To witness this long-awaited moment unfold in real time was deeply meaningful.
On this special day, they took the opportunity to learn more about Edan’s story: his dual citizenship, his courageous choice to serve as a lone soldier and his early years in the Tenafly community. At one point, a student spontaneously asked if the group could say Tehillim for Edan, and all joined together in heartfelt prayer. Throughout the day, students in the younger grades continued to receive updates as each stage of the release process unfolded. Many felt such a personal connection to his name and story that they were reluctant to leave for recess.
On that same morning, middle school students in grades 5—8, accompanied by faculty and several parents, walked together to Tenafly Town Square to join the broader Jewish community in watching the livestream of Edan’s return home.
Even before arriving at the square, the sense of unity and excitement was already tangible. As the group walked through the streets of Tenafly, passing cars honked, drivers waved and bystanders clapped in support. These seemingly small gestures carried deep meaning, and served as a reminder of the unspoken bond that ties the Jewish people together in moments of shared purpose.
At the square, TCA’s students stood among hundreds of Jews from Tenafly and the surrounding communities. Together, they sang, clapped, recited Tehillim and celebrated as one nation. It was an inspiring and emotional scene: Am Yisrael, young and old, religious and secular, standing shoulder to shoulder to welcome home a brother, express gratitude and affirm our unity and strength as HaShem’s people.
Edan’s release falling on Pesach Sheini added even deeper significance. A day that teaches the enduring possibility of second chances, Pesach Sheini served as the perfect backdrop for Edan’s release, a powerful, living symbol of redemption and renewal. It was a reminder of Hashem’s constant presence and the miraculous ways in which He orchestrates events in our lives.
