April 28, 2025
As we journey from Pesach toward the end of the school year, we mark three powerful days on the Israeli national calendar, moments that reflect some of the deepest lows and the most inspiring highs in Jewish history.
Yesterday, our students commemorated יום השואה – Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance and Heroism Day, with thoughtful class ceremonies and learning. 
Through the stories of Hannah Szenes and Salamo Arouch, students explored the importance of remembering individuals—not just the incomprehensible number of six million, but the real lives behind the loss.
Next week, we will honor יום הזיכרון – Yom HaZikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror, and then celebrate יום העצמאות – Yom HaAtzma’ut, Independence Day.
We’ll gather with the St. Louis Jewish community Tuesday evening at the JCC, and again as a school on Wednesday morning. This year, still in the midst of its aftermath, the memory of October 7 weighs heavily on us. We mourn those lost and those continuing to suffer as a result of that terrible day as well as the many lives cut short in the establishment and protection of the State of Israel throughout the last 77 years. On Thursday we celebrate the miracle of our homeland Israel—not just a dream but a real country that is both a privilege and a responsibility.
In these days of emotional contrast, we are reminded of the power of קהילה – kehillah, community. Though far from Israel, we draw closer by supporting one another in grief and in celebration.
Another way to stand together this week is by voting in the World Zionist Congress elections. American Jews will send 152 delegates to this “parliament of the Jewish people,” which then helps shape the future of Jewish life globally and directs more than $1 billion annually to vital institutions in Israel and around the world. By voting, we help shape policies that reflect our values.
Cast your vote by May 4 for the slate that best represents your vision for the Jewish people and the Jewish state.
Learn more through this short video, Your Vote for Israel’s Future, and visit the elections website to learn about the slates, register, and vote.
Together, may we honor memory, celebrate resilience, and shape the future.
L’Shalom,
Morah Becky
Hebrew and Israel Education Coordinator