On May 1, Erev Shabbos, Pesach Sheini, HANC High School Menahel Rabbi Eli Slomnicki (‘97), visited the Reinstein Family Campus in West Hempstead, New York, for a special and inspiring Friday morning with HANC’s seventh-grade students. The day began on a beautiful note as Rabbi Slomnicki joined the Middle School for a heartfelt t’filah in the Rabbi Moshe Gottesman Beis Midrash, setting a warm and uplifting tone for the morning. Following davening, students gathered in the lunchroom, where Middle School Principal Rabbi Elliot Hecht (‘90) offered a warm welcome to Rabbi Slomnicki and Mrs. Elynn Rosenberg, Director of Admissions at HANC High School.
Over a light breakfast of doughnuts and chocolate milk, Rabbi Slomnicki shared an engaging d’var Torah filled with meaningful lessons connected to Pesach Sheini and the power of second chances. Through a memorable and relatable story about “Harry,” an unaffiliated Jew who experienced both embarrassment and compassion in a synagogue setting, students were encouraged to reflect on how their actions impact others. The story highlighted the importance of sensitivity and the courage it takes to give and accept second chances. Rabbi Slomnicki emphasized that while people may sometimes feel hurt or embarrassed, it is essential to believe in the good in others and remain open to rebuilding connections with friends, family, and teachers alike.
