It’s a new school year at the Yeshiva University High School for Girls (Central)! Over the summer, Wildcats traveled, worked, volunteered, vacationed, and experienced life outside the classroom – and now Team Central is meeting the 2026-27 school year with joy and intention. The new theme for this school year? “Living with Gratitude.” Over the fall and spring semesters, YUHSG will offer events and initiatives that will encourage faculty and students to approach each day with an eye for brachos and a sense of thankfulness for everyday gifts, both large and small.
“We are overjoyed to welcome all our students, both new and returning, to Central,” said Principal Mrs. Aliza Gewirtz. “The building truly comes alive when our students come back to campus. The year’s theme is a powerful call to action – a chance for students and faculty alike to pause, reflect, and approach each other and their lives with warmth and appreciation.”
The first few days of the semester focused on a celebration of Team Central. On Tuesday, September 1, Wildcats welcomed the first month of school with a special orientation for the class of 2030. After an address by Central’s Mashgiach Ruchani, Rabbi Joshua Goller, the newest Central class got to know their new campus with a scavenger hunt, a general knowledge game show, sweet treats, and a tour hosted by none other than the Central seniors, beginning their last year as Wildcats by acting as guides for new students.
And there was a lot to see on the tour, including new windows and flooring in the gym, a newly renovated art studio on the third floor and a renovated physics room on the first, a new fleet of lockers, and new doors and new paint jobs throughout. There are exciting new additions to the faculty and staff as well. New staff members include Ms. Dena Lauber, who will be teaching both Art and Physical Education, as well as Mrs. Nina Ottensoser (’17), who will serve as YUHSG’s new Director of Development and Communications. Dr. Lisa Perl and Mrs. Jamie Scharaga, who will both be teaching English, are new additions to YUHSG’s Humanities Department. Mrs. Zahava Grodman (’12) is returning to Central as a new addition to the Judaic Studies Department. Mrs. Leora Kaminetzky (’17) and Rabbi Mordechai Torczyner will also join Judaic Studies.
Wednesday, September 2, brought the first official day of classes, with a quick run-through of the typical Wednesday schedule, meet-and-greets with faculty members, and a celebratory conclusion with music, games, and food.
It’s a new year filled with new opportunities, as well as the warmth and excitement of traditions old and new. And the most exciting new tradition is on the horizon: On September 9 and 10, Team Central will kick off the new school year with its second annual retreat at Camp Kaylie. Welcome back, everyone!