Ezra Academy’s sophomore class spent an uplifting and memorable Shabbaton this past weekend in Woodmere, graciously hosted by the Congregation of Aish Kodesh and the broader Woodmere community. The Shabbaton offered students a meaningful blend of spiritual growth, community connection, and grade-wide bonding.
The weekend began Friday night with inspiring divrei chizuk following Kabbalas Shabbos. Rabbi Weinberger emphasized that Ezra Academy serves as a powerful starting point for so many students, encouraging the sophomores to recognize and fully take advantage of the many opportunities available to them during their high school years.
Throughout Shabbos, students enjoyed beautifully hosted seudos – both as an entire grade on Friday night and in smaller groups with faculty and community members during the day. These meals, along with engaging oneg Shabbos gatherings hosted by local families, fostered warm connections and meaningful conversations between students, faculty, and hosts.
Shabbos concluded with a powerful shalosh seudos address by Charlie Harary, whose words reinforced a clear and resonant message: opportunities abound for Ezra’s tenth graders, and this stage of their journey is one of immense potential and growth.
The Shabbaton concluded on Motza’ei Shabbos with a lively melaveh malkah featuring pizza, followed by a trip to Activate, an interactive gaming experience at Roosevelt Field Mall. The evening served as a true bonding experience for the grade, capping off a weekend filled with connection, inspiration, and joy.
Ezra Academy extends a heartfelt yasher koach and sincere thanks to the Woodmere community for opening their homes and hearts and for helping create such a meaningful and impactful Shabbaton for our sophomores.
