Every year, the Yeshiva University High School for Girls (Central) begins the academic year by providing chances to learn both in and out of the classroom. With this in mind, the school launched its very first annual schoolwide retreat last year. It was such a success that Team Wildcat embarked upon its second annual retreat this week! The retreat centered on the theme of the 2026-27 school year, Living with Gratitude. This theme assumed a pivotal role in the planning of this year’s retreat, which was facilitated by YUHSG’s Director of Israel and Religious Guidance, Senior Grade Dean, and Judaic Studies faculty member, Mrs. Yael Axelrod.
“The sessions are focused on the idea of gratitude and the crucial value of gratitude in Judaism,” Mrs. Axelrod said. “The first step of gratitude is recognizing the good that has been provided to us. We’ll talk about that recognition, as well as the importance of expressing gratitude to one another and to Hashem. We also have gradewide bonding activities, learning sessions, and meaningful pre-Rosh HaShanah events.”
Buses departed the Holliswood campus the morning of September 9, bound for bonding, learning, and fun at Camp Kaylie. Events included a schoolwide bonfire, a babka bake, and opportunities to be active with everything from go-karts to softball, soccer, and volleyball, as well as additional learning opportunities in the beis midrash. An epic gradewide dress-up chagigah, hosted by legendary MC Shimi Adar, completed the night. The next day brought new learning opportunities, including Grit ‘N Wit, a challenging obstacle course testing both physical endurance and problem-solving skills by encouraging collaboration between teammates. Throughout, students and faculty alike focused on the joy of gratitude and positive self-reflection. The retreat event plays an important role in this learning. “Last year’s retreat was such a hit that we decided to do it again this year,” Mrs. Axelrod said. “It’s such a great welcome to the school year and to Central in general – bonding with old friends and making new ones.” Wildcats arrived home on Thursday invigorated and ready for fall 2026!
And that new school year is just getting started. On Tuesday, September 15, YUHSG will open its doors to Wildcat parents for Back-to-School Night, allowing families a glimpse into their students’ schedule and time to meet faculty and staff. Another highlight of the new school year: Club Day. This year’s event, which will be held on Tuesday, September 22, will put the spotlight on YUHSG’s extracurricular life, offering students the chance to explore academic clubs, school publications, and chesed organizations.
