Our eighth grade had an amazing experience shortly before yeshivah break. The grade was divided up into groups and had the opportunity to interview Holocaust survivors. The students prepared extensively for these interviews. The students studied their survivors’ bio and used it to prepare questions that would discuss the survivors’ memories from before, during, and after the war. The experience was one the students will never forget. As each survivor entered the building or came on the screen via Zoom, he/she was greeted by our students. The interactions were wonderful.

So many students find finals stressful, with so much pressure, and what can feel like endless studying. True to YSZ HS’s “Head to Heart” mission, students are taught to be conscientious, resilient, and responsible during this hectic time. Research indicates that our brains are more creative and energized when given time to reset and recharge. It is this balance that enables our students to maintain high standards of rigor and intensity during the complex finals week. “Brain Breaks” help students decompress and relax after each final. Focusing on wellness, students enjoyed activities that helped them find balance and calm. This past week, students participated in activities that range from creating Acai bowls, beautiful Moss framed art, natural candle-making and yoga. This upcoming week, girls will package chesed projects, do some mindful crafts, and participate in guided meditation.

Children in the HALB Lev Chana four-year-old nursery classes share what they did on their Winter break! Parents and children had the opportunity to highlight activities they did, food they ate, and books they read. It’s always fun to share home experiences with our friends at school!

 

In conjunction with Parshas Sh’mos, students at SINAI@YCQ built their own pyramids. This was not only a great way to retell the Exodus slavery story, but it was also a chance to employ their STEM problem-solving skills while learning about the parshah!