Ezra Academy kicked off the school year with an energetic and meaningful Theme Breakout centered on the timeless message of “Olam Chesed Yibaneh” – “The world is built on acts of kindness.” The event brought the entire student body together in a celebration that mixed spirit, service, and school-wide unity.
The program was held in the Ezra Academy cafeteria, where students gathered for a spirited launch led by Rabbi Mittelman, Director of Programming, who inspired them by highlighting the importance of making kindness not just an occasional act but a defining part of their year. In his words, “Every interaction, every commitment, every mitzvah builds a stronger Ezra Academy and a stronger world. This is the year to build with chesed.”
Following the launch, students enjoyed refreshing açaí bowls, a festive and healthful treat that added to the lively atmosphere. With music and camaraderie, the cafeteria buzzed with excitement as students took on commitments for the year ahead.
The highlight of the breakout was the sign-up for dozens of chesed opportunities, which ranged from local acts of service to broader community outreach. Students eagerly committed to projects such as building sukkos for families in need; visiting nursing homes to bring joy and companionship to the elderly; babysitting for mothers needing extra support; packing Shabbos food packages for struggling families; and relief missions through the OU, serving those affected by hardship and crisis.
The initiative reflects Ezra Academy’s commitment to fostering not only academic excellence but also the values of compassion, responsibility, and leadership in its students.
The event concluded with Rabbi Trenk, menahel of Yeshiva Darchei Torah, offering words of chizuk that encouraged students to dedicate themselves to a meaningful year of service to klal Yisrael.
With the launch of this year’s theme, Ezra Academy is poised to ensure that chesed becomes more than a project: It becomes the heartbeat of the school culture. As one student shared, “It feels amazing to know we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. We’re not just learning about kindness; we’re living it.”
This Theme Breakout set the stage for a school year that promises to be filled with growth, unity, and an outpouring of good deeds. Truly, at Ezra Academy, “Olam Chesed Yibaneh” is more than a motto – it’s a mission.