The Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) marked Yom HaZikaron with meaningful and age-appropriate ceremonies for our students in Grades 3-8. Students honored the memory of the fallen soldiers and victims of terrorism and were inspired by the heroic sacrifices they made to ensure the establishment and continuation of Medinat Yisrael. Students in Grades 5-8 had the special opportunity to hear from Michael Benzakein (YCQ Class of 2011), who survived a terrorist attack in Israel. Michael powerfully shared his experience from that day and also spoke about his dear friend Ezra Schwartz Hy”d, who was tragically murdered in the attack. He urged everyone to learn from Ezra’s legacy to spread joy and kindness whenever possible.
The next day, Yom HaAtzmaut, was a day like no other. After davening, students from Kindergarten through Eighth Grade gathered in the lunchroom to participate in YCQ’s annual school-wide musical Hallel, where students and staff members sang and praised Hashem for the gift of Medinat Yisrael. Led by JHS Rabbi and Jewish music star Rabbi Ophie Nat, the sea of blue and white was a remarkable display of achdut and hoda’ah. Throughout the day, students participated in special lessons, games, and activities connected to Eretz Yisrael, including a meaningful kumsitz.
The Early Childhood Program enjoyed an amazing hands-on tailored program of their own. Students grabbed their passports, boarded an El Al plane, and arrived in Israel for a short visit. In Yerushalayim, they davened at the Kotel and bought snacks at the shuk with shekalim. Students ventured south to Eilat where they snorkeled and found sea shells. They also planted trees in the Galil, and their busy trip concluded with a stop in Tzfat, the holy Northern city, where they made beautiful colorful candles and artwork. Thank you to everyone who made these programs so meaningful. YCQ looks forward to a continued future of peace and celebration for am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael. May Hashem continue to watch over His people, and may we merit the ultimate G’ulah speedily. L’shanah ha’baah BiYerushalayim!
