WDS celebrated the most special Yom Ha’atzmaut yet in honor of Israel’s 75th birthday last week. This celebration was especially meaningful to WDS because the school is also celebrating its 75th year. The founding of WDS is notably aligned with the founding of the State of Israel in 1948, both of which represent the establishment of a foundation for Jewish identity, community and tradition at an uncertain time in our history in the world. WDS brought out all the stops with a day full of immersive and experiential celebrations and learning. Starting with a school-wide “Hatikvah” and chagiga, the students then delved into creative classroom learning that included custom Israeli puzzle making, an Israeli themed lunch, singalong performances from ganon through fifth grades—and culminated in a tour through Israeli cities and culture led by the students where all grades taught each other about important landmark locations throughout the country. The day was capped off with a concert and dinner for the entire WDS community where the school welcomed over 500 people to its campus for a ruach-filled evening, featuring a live performance by 8th Day. It is a day that students, faculty and families will remember for a long time to come.