The celebration and reflection of spring continued at Central on Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut. Last Tuesday’s focus was one of education and remembrance. Central students heard from a former Israeli soldier, Shahaf Segal, about his service experience. The students responded to the warmth and humor in Mr. Segal’s delivery, as well as his core message.
“The speaker was really funny and interesting,” said junior Channah Yurovsky. “He talked about being an Israeli citizen, and how he protects his country not just because he’s obligated to, but because he wants to.” She added, “We all have a connection to our country.”
The day was made even more significant when Central’s very own Maayan Berman, a member of the class of 2019, shared her experience in the Israel Defense Forces with students. The day also featured singing from the Central choir, as well as a malawach sale, courtesy of Central’s Cooking Club, launched in order to raise funds for the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces.
The festivities didn’t stop there. On Tuesday evening, Central marked its very first Yom HaAtzmaut community event with a dinner and a concert featuring Moshe Tischler. Students worked hard to put their special touch on the building decor. “We set up a spectacular dinner table,” said junior Reva Liker. “We are so excited for tonight’s concert.” It was a roaring success, and the first annual event of many to come.
It was followed by Yom HaAtzmaut on Wednesday, a day of activities and fun that students anticipate every spring. Events included Israel-specific sessions, such as “The Cities of Tanach,” “What is Religious Zionism,” “The Story Behind the Blue and White Cookies,” “My Summer Visiting Palestinian Villages,” and “STEM with ROOTS.”
Of course, no Yom HaAtzmaut Day at Central would be complete without “Basic Army Training,” a high-octane activity round involving sprints, chin-ups, and plenty of festive blue and white gear. Another time-honored activity: a round of Israel Jeopardy, in which students competed to answer questions covering Israeli history, politics, and culture.
For seniors, whose last official day of class was Thursday, April 27, it was a last opportunity to bond with their classmates. After a triumphant round of Jeopardy, senior Emily Froehlich said, “Big shoutout to Mr. Isaacs, who is really cool and who taught us most of this!”
In all, these two days provided Central with the chance to remember and celebrate its commitment to the homeland, which is additionally significant as Central celebrates its 75-year anniversary.
