On Thursday morning, October 27, Yeshivat He’Atid students joined the Teach NJ Mission to Trenton. Student representatives from Yeshivat He’Atid as well as other New Jersey yeshivot participated. Representatives from Catholic and Muslim schools joined the mission as well. Student activists were educated on the importance of lobbying for funding for the nonpublic schools in New Jersey. They were also further educated on Teach NJ’s mission and how Teach NJ has helped the community.

Yeshivat He’Atid has directly benefited from Teach NJ’s efforts. Teach NJ’s advocacy has helped ensure funding in the areas of STEM, nursing, transportation and universal pre-k for various New Jersey schools. Teach NJ and its activists work to educate and help develop meaningful political relationships with state legislators and the governor. Teach NJ has also helped bring awareness to the importance of voting in the community.

Student lobbyists advocated for these causes in conversation with various legislators. Students were given the opportunity to meet with New Jersey assemblymen, ask questions to New Jersey legislators and were given a tour of the General Assembly and Senate chambers. Touring the General Assembly helped provide a full understanding of the legislative process and showcased historical information on New Jersey.

Students also met with Assembly People Ellen Park and Shana Hader, as well as Senator Gordon Johnson who all come from diverse backgrounds. Johnson, Hader and Park were receptive to comments and questions and reassured the audience that they are committed to promoting funding to non-public schools, specifically in the areas of concern addressed at the meeting.

Eighth grade student representatives from Yeshivat He’atid included Aviva Barkai, Talia Pfefer and myself. Pfefer stated, “I was glad to learn further about the legislative process. I was honored to be a part of making an impact on my community.” Yeshivat He’Atid grandparent Brenda Wiener helped accompany students as well. Wiener stated, “It was interesting meeting the Senator and Assemblywomen from New Jersey, learning about their backgrounds and hearing their reassurances that they support private school funding on many levels.”

Yeshivat He’Atid is grateful to Teach NJ for their efforts in the community and for the opportunity to participate in a meaningful day.

Ally Pruzansky is an eighth grader at Yeshivat He’Atid.