You Can Take the Kids out of Israel, but You Can’t Take Israel out of the Kids

This sentiment became especially real when our Grade 8 students had to cut short their trip to Israel this spring and return home over a week early. It was a significant disappointment for the students, who had eagerly anticipated this Grade 8 tradition for many years.

To ensure their school year concluded with something special, the class participated in a week-long adventure inspired by attractions and sites in Israel. This experience was led by Director of Judaic Studies, Tamar Cytryn, and was accompanied each day by several different teachers from the Middle School.

On Monday morning, students traveled to Starved Rock State Park to simulate a trip to the Golan Heights. They hiked and enjoyed shakshuka and eggs cooked over a mangal (grill). Tuesday was designated as "Kfar Blum," where they spent the day kayaking on the Chicago River and played games at Activate Games. On Wednesday, "Akko Extreme Park Day," they visited the Go Ape Treetop Adventure for an exciting ropes course, followed by a trip to the Brookfield Zoo.

The excitement continued on Thursday with a day at Six Flags Amusement Park, themed "Rishon LeTzion," and concluded with a sleepover in Michigan City, Indiana. Finally, the week wrapped up with a Tel Aviv-themed beach trip at Indiana Dunes National Park on Friday. 

Each activity, while different from the original plan, fostered togetherness and created lasting memories that reminded the students of their connection to Israel, wherever they are.