This past week, the Westchester Day School community commemorated Yom HaZikaron and celebrated Yom Ha’Atzmaut with programs that reflected the emotional journey from mourning to joy and pride in the State of Israel.

On Wednesday, students and faculty gathered for a moving Yom HaZikaron tekes led by seventh and eighth grade students. Guided by Morah Ronit and Morah Yasmin, WDS’s Morim, Shlichim and Shlichit, the students honored the memories of Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror through heartfelt words, song and a powerful video tribute. The ceremony captured both the pain of loss and the resilience of Am Yisrael’s collective memory.

“As a school rooted in love for Israel, it is our responsibility and privilege to ensure our students understand the weight and meaning of Yom HaZikaron,” said Rabbi Nuriel Klinger. “We are so proud of our middle school students who led with poise and purpose, and grateful to our shlichim for making this day so meaningful.”

Throughout the day, students across all grades participated in age-appropriate programming designed to help them reflect on the day’s significance. Quiet spaces and storytelling sessions gave students opportunities to connect personally, reinforcing that each name remembered represents a life, a family and a legacy.

In keeping with tradition, WDS transitioned from solemn remembrance to joyful celebration, marking Israel’s 77th Yom Ha’Atzmaut the following day with ruach and gratitude.

The day began with special tefillot and a spirited Hallel, followed by festive breakfasts, visits from chayalim, blue-and-white-themed activity stations and an all-school chagigah featuring Israeli entertainer Sandy Shmuely.

Later that evening, the celebration continued as the WDS community came together for the annual Yom Ha’Atzmaut community event. Families gathered for a festive dinner accompanied by meaningful Israel-themed crafts and activities. The energy rose with a live concert and chagigah led by WDS’s very own Mr. Sandy Shmuely and his band. The night concluded on a high note with dessert and a spirited daglanut performance—an incredible display of Israeli pride featuring WDS’s eighth grade students.

From heartfelt remembrance to exuberant celebration, this week at WDS reflected the strength, spirit and unity of Am Yisrael. Happy 77th, Israel!