This year’s 10th grade Israel trip was filled with countless incredible moments, meaningful experiences, and memories that will be with the Class of 2028 for years to come. From the first to the last day, the trip gave them the opportunity to connect with Israel and with each other. Two students who attended the trip, Sophia G. and Annie S., shared their favorite days of the trip. Sophia reflected on the special first Shabbat in Chispin, while Annie described one of the most exciting days.
After having spent upwards of 48 hours in the land of Israel, Shabbat was quickly approaching. The sophomores prepared for what was sure to be one of the most special, unified Shabbats they would experience in their lives. As Shabbat came closer, they took pictures that would be cherished forever. As soon as they turned their phones in, the most surprisingly memorable day had begun.
The girls lit candles all together, while the boys recited kiddush. This was followed by an incredible Shabbat dinner where they bonded over songs and new conversations. Later, they played extremely funny games, led by Israeli madrichot, that ended in pure laughter all around the room.
The following morning, the students realized they had to get creative, as they were bound by Shabbat. After all, they only had each other to rely on for entertainment. However, their worries were soon eased when they realized the true number of other Israelis staying at the hotel who were also keeping Shabbat.
Some of the boys befriended a group of Israeli teenagers, whom they faced off against in a heated basketball match. Meanwhile, other students found adorable babies and toddlers to play with. They even talked to other adults in the hotel. Despite the language barrier, these students were able to have an incredible time meeting new people and sharing experiences over Shabbat. This idea of spending time as a grade in the beautiful nature that Israel has to offer truly took a major role in making this trip so special for the 10th graders.
Another one of the most memorable days of the trip started early in the morning after the 10th graders spent the night at the base of Masada. They woke up before sunrise to hike up the mountain and view the sunrise from the top. Although the hike was challenging, reaching the top and seeing the beautiful views of the desert and the Dead Sea made it worth it. After the hike, the boys and girls separated to pray Shacharit.
Then the two buses met with their tour guides, Shimon and Yoni, for a detailed tour of the ancient site. They explained the history of Masada and described the meaning of why Masada is such an important place in our history. After the tour, the students traveled to the Dead Sea, where they had time to float in the water and relax.
Later in the day, they continued south to Eilat. That night, they lit candles together for the second night of Chanukah. After, the students went to the Ice Mall, where everyone had time to shop and choose their own dinner, and then to the boardwalk, where many students and teachers, including Dr. Hana Barouk, rode the exhilarating Yaniv Fireball. This was just another glimpse of one of the many full and exciting days students experienced in Israel.
The 10th grade Israel trip was an unforgettable experience that provided the opportunity to explore incredible places and make many new connections. However, this trip would not have been possible without its amazing chaperones: Opher Yunger, Cindy Winterman, Eti Levy, Dr. Hana Barouk, Joshua Miller, Sharon Rabinovitz, and Mo Fisch.
