The Yeshivat He’Atid (YH) kindergarten students celebrated their Chagigat Sof Shana. At YH, much emphasis is placed on the importance of experiential learning, so it was only fitting that the celebration was a hands-on learning experience for all! Even the setup of the event displayed the incredible learning that occurred over the year. Walls were decorated with paintings and collages created by students to reflect various works of some of the greats. The students began the event with a song and dance about Israel, then they set out on a learning journey as they guided their parents to different learning adventures. Tables were set up with special activities both parents and children could work on together; furthering the collaborative and artistic skills children have gained this year.

The celebration was a time for students, faculty and parents, to reflect on the exponential development and growth that occurred this year. Despite its obvious challenges, this year was extremely rewarding because it allowed us to witness the incredible strength and resilience of the students. Each morning, they arrived to class with smiles, eager to learn. Throughout the school year, kindergarteners deepened their knowledge. They became scientists, artists and explorers. They became world travelers during their World Studies unit. They traveled to Italy, Mexico, China and many more places. They dove into the world of art by learning and recreating the works of Monet, Van Gogh, Cezanne, Georgia O’Keefe and so much more. Their art portfolios are filled with personal representations of each artist they researched over the year.

Students further developed their love for Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael. They enthusiastically retraced the footsteps of our ancestors as they engaged in interactive lessons on the parsha. Of course, there was a lot of reading, writing and math this year, but the most important skills that students have acquired in kindergarten are those of kindness, friendship and respect.