The NSHA community came together to mark Yom HaZikaron with thoughtful commemorations that honored Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror with reflection, song, and shared memory.
At the elementary school, the day began with the siren, bringing the entire school to a standstill in a powerful moment of collective stillness.
Fourth graders, fifth graders, and middle schoolers participated in a tekes led by our Bat Ami shlichot, featuring tefilah, personal reflections, moments of silence, and songs that helped convey the weight of the day. Students shared stories of fallen soldiers, including Shon Mondschein, z”l, and sang “Laila Tov She’an,” based on the letter he wrote before he was killed in action at age 19 during Operation Protective Edge.
At the high school, students gathered for a tekes organized by Mora Orna Amir, which wove together stories of fallen soldiers and victims of terror — from the founding of the State through the tragic losses since October 7. Students shared biographies and reflections, while the choir, led by Chazan Yitzi Spinner, performed Israeli songs of memory and loss that added depth and emotion to the program. The commemoration concluded with the entire school joining together to sing “Hatikva.”
Together, these moments of remembrance reminded our students of the cost of establishing and protecting a Jewish State and the enduring responsibility to honor those who gave their lives for Am Yisrael and Medinas Yisrael. Yehi Zichram Baruch.
On Wednesday, students across NSHA moved from remembrance to celebration just as Israelis do. Yom HaAtzmaut featured joyful, high-energy programming that strengthened our community’s connection to Israel.
In Early Childhood, the celebration took on an immersive, imaginative feel. Dressed in PTA-sponsored Yom HaAtzmaut shirts, students “traveled” to Israel with passports and a simulated flight experience. Toddlers and nursery students explored a lively shuk, sampling Israeli foods like Bissli, chocolate spread, and olives, while pre-k and kindergarten students visited classrooms transformed into different Israeli cities.
Middle school students began the day with a beautiful musical Hallel, and then embarked on an exciting “Tour of Israel” to learn about cities, landmarks, and culture from north to south.
They headed over to the high school to join their older peers for an energetic performance from the band Zusha! The famous duo blended traditional Jewish heritage with contemporary rhythms and soulful vocals, and created an absolutely electric atmosphere.
The celebrations continued with BBQ lunches as well as an Israeli-style carnival for middle school students featuring friendship bracelet-making, games, and a photo booth with figures from Jewish history. High schoolers capped their day off with open tennis, pickleball and basketball courts and games on the fields.
