With the rigorous workload and long hours spent studying that come with being in 11th grade, students may often find themselves in need of a break. On September 5, 2024, the junior class started off their annual Shabbaton in Brooklyn, New York. On the first day of their trip, the juniors had the freedom of exploring Brooklyn’s Avenue J and eating at any kosher restaurant of their choice. The students’ next stop was Beat the Bomb, an escape room, where they solved a series of challenges in order to avoid getting splattered with paint. 

Afterwards, the juniors met with guest speaker Elizabeth Savetsky, who shared what being a Jewish-American means to her, and proceeded to head off to Camp Seneca, Pennsylvania, where the first day of the Shabbaton came to an end.

On day 2, students split into teams for Color War, which included activities such as relay races, dance battles, and lip-syncing competitions. That afternoon, the boys enjoyed some free time, while the girls participated in a challah bake, where they sang and danced before getting ready for Shabbat. All of the students handed in their phones, choosing to focus on the spiritual aspects of Shabbat rather than staying on their screens. Everybody participated in services, candle lighting, enjoyable meals, and meaningful debates. To break the much-needed no-phone Shabbat, the students had a dance party and free time to hang out with friends. 

On Sunday, the junior class ended their trip with a visit to the American Dream Mall, where they went ice skating and rode roller coasters. After their mall experience, it was time to go back home. The Shabbaton was, for many, a breath of fresh air. Our juniors reported being able to connect with others much deeper than they ever would during school hours.