Schools

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.

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.

Lev Chana students took a trip to the local library. They loved walking around to see all the books and learning about all the resources a library provides to the community.

At MTA, Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut were observed as one unfolding story, moving from reflection and remembrance to gratitude and celebration. On Yom HaZikaron, the school was filled with visible reminders of sacrifice and loss. Screens displayed the names of fallen soldiers, while posters throughout the building honored those who gave their lives, especially since October 7. Each shiur also connected with the memory of a specific fallen soldier, giving talmidim the opportunity to reflect in a more personal way.

After reading To Kill a Mockingbird, YCQ students in Grade Eight visited the Queens County Criminal Court to witness the American justice system up close. Students observed the court in action and had the special opportunity to hear from judges and police officers.

Yom HaAtzmaut was jam-packed with activities at HALB and Lev Chana. Both campuses created a fun “trip to Israel” where students got passports and participated in activities based on the different cities in Israel. After school, students, staff, and parents joined together for an incredible celebration at HALB with delicious food, music, and dancing with DJ Farbreng. The evening ended with a special presentation by the Lower School girls and Daglanut with the eighth-grade girls.