On Thursday morning, families and teachers kvelled as Grade 3 students marked an incredible milestone: their Kabbalat Torah! Each student chanted a portion of the Matan Torah story from the Torah, standing under a chuppah alongside their families. Just as the Rabbis taught that Bnei Yisrael received the Torah under a chuppah at Har Sinai, our students symbolically stood in that sacred space, affirming their personal connection to the Torah.

Following the ceremony, families explored student learning across the curriculum. Parents explored social studies inquiry projects, a collaborative 3D model of Chicago landmarks that helped answer their essential question, "What makes Chicago, Chicago?," and The Gimmel Goes Downtown, a student-created travel guide. They also saw Hebrew writing inspired by students' imaginary journeys to Naot Kedumim, as well as Judaic Studies reflections, including chevruta thank-you cards and family trees tracing our ancient family in Beresheet.

Families also celebrated students' published realistic-fiction novels, each set in Chicago and centered on a mitzvah or middah that guided the main character's growth. Students designed their own book covers using technology skills and proudly shared the results of months of planning, drafting, revising, and editing. Throughout the space, parents enjoyed viewing artwork from the year, including Chicago-themed embroidered tote bags created in art class.

It was a morning full of pride, joy, and meaningful learning. Kol hakavod to our incredible Grade 3 students!