Fall Students Prep for Poland
October 23, 2026
After a meaningful Shabbat spent with host families across Israel, our students returned to campus on Sunday with wonderful stories to share and a renewed appreciation for the warmth and hospitality they experienced. It was a special opportunity to connect with Israeli families, enjoy a change of scenery, and experience Shabbat in communities throughout the country.
The week then turned toward preparations for our upcoming journey to Poland. On Monday, students visited G Mall in Kfar Saba to purchase last-minute supplies and make sure they have everything they need for the trip. Tuesday evening was devoted to preparing tekesim (ceremonies), for the memorial sites we will visit in Poland. Working together, students reflected on the significance of these places and began considering how they can honor the lives and stories connected to them in a thoughtful and personal way.
Wednesday brought a full day of exploration in Tel Aviv. Students discovered the city on foot, enjoyed lunch in the lively Shuk HaCarmel, visited the Bauhaus Museum, and took in more of Tel Aviv’s architecture, culture, and energy during a bike tour. We ended the wonderful day over pizza with representatives from HonestReporting, who joined the group for an engaging conversation that encouraged students to think critically about Israel, media, and the importance of informed storytelling.
On Thursday, the group traveled to Jerusalem for a visit to Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust remembrance center. During the tour, students reflected on the history preserved there and had the privilege of meeting a Holocaust survivor. The encounter gave them a deeply personal connection to the history they have been studying and added important context as they prepare for Poland.
The week ended on campus with students meeting representatives from Jewish National Fund-USA for an interactive activity, followed by a delicious dinner together. It was a great conclusion to a busy week filled with preparation, learning, reflection, and memorable experiences across Israel.
