Westchester Day School was filled with green earlier this week as students proudly dressed in the color to show support for the brave chayalim (soldiers) of the IDF. Thanks to the creative vision of their incredible Shlichot Meitav and Nitzan, the main hallway was transformed into an IDF army base, providing an immersive experience that brought the students closer to Israel and its courageous defenders.

From navy to infantry to air force, every detail reflected different divisions of the IDF, offering students a chance to learn and connect in a hands-on way. The experience was made even more meaningful as the entire school—whether in classrooms, the lunchroom or hallways—joined together with Rabbi Klinger to recite the tefillah for the safety of the IDF and sing “Hatikvah.”

For students in grades second through fourth, the day included a special Tzahal boot camp, where they engaged in activities inspired by real training exercises.

This meaningful initiative not only honored these heroes but also strengthened the students’ connection to Medinat Yisrael, reinforcing our shared responsibility as Am Yisrael.