Schools

Central continued this year’s focus on the Power of Positivity with “Thank You, Hashem” Day on Wednesday, November 29, one of many self-care days that will be held for students throughout the year. The focus for the end of the semester is “Positivity in Action,” a push that has incorporated various activities and outings stressing the importance of a positive mindset into student interactions with the outside world.

In response to the terrible events of October 7, and the ongoing war since then, Hatzioni, MTA’s Israel Club and Publication, knew that they needed to organize something that could make a difference in helping the soldiers in Israel. After hearing that the army base of MTA alumnus Gavriel Pudell needed kippot, a cookie sale was organized and $340 was quickly raised. The money reached Gavriel’s unit through Lev LaChayil, an organization dedicated to helping Lone Soldiers.

Lev Chana student Charles Neumann is so proud of his big brother who is in the IDF. Before his trip to Israel to visit him, Charles’ classmates wrote letters of encouragement for his brother and the entire unit. The soldiers were all so excited to receive the letters. And, of course, the students were so happy to see a picture of their letters in the soldiers’ hands!

YSZ took the opportunity this week to spread gratitude amongst its students. Every class, from Pre-1A to eighth grade, worked on a gratitude project, taking the time to learn what it means to be grateful and why it’s important to express gratitude. The students celebrated the people and places they are surrounded by and appreciated the important things in life.

MTA’s ARISTA Honor Society takes on leadership roles within the school in various ways throughout the year. They offer peer tutoring, run all kinds of programs, and organize several events. One such event is the long-standing, highly popular Blood Drive. Twice a year, ARISTA organizes a blood drive that MTA talmidim, teachers, and YU students frequent. Giving blood has become something MTA sophomores especially look forward to doing, as they turn 16 during the school year.

Central faculty and administration are always working to expand curriculum offerings – and doing so with an eye toward students’ futures. For this reason, several advanced courses offering college credits have been introduced to the curriculum to put Central graduates ahead as first-year college students. These courses are taught by Yeshiva University professors and are one of the many examples of the strong relationship that exists between YU and YUHSG.