A Message from Hagit Lewis, Director of Campus Life

This year, our school theme, "Od Yavo Shalom Aleinu," reminds us of both our hope and our responsibility to bring more peace into the world. Hanukkah, the holiday of light, invites us to notice the sparks around us and to become sources of light ourselves.

In the Sha'ar CJDS, the main hallway, one board reads “Ignite the Light," framed with mirrors that catch and reflect the glowing lights above. The opposite board says "Happy Hanukkah" in Hebrew. The mirrors symbolize how light moves from one person to another and how every act of kindness and every word of peace reflects outward and expands.

Even in times of darkness, a small light can transform the space around it and dispel the darkness. Each candle we light reminds us that hope begins with a single spark.

This Hanukkah, may the reflections in these mirrors inspire us to see the light we create, the light we share, and the light we return to the world. May they remind us that even the smallest flame can illuminate, inspire, and guide us toward greater peace.

חג חנוכה שמח!

Todah rabah to Parent Anna Shifrina (Matthew, Grade 8), Emile (Grade 2) for her help with the installation.