Beyond the Classroom
ISRAEL
AIPAC
Our very own Ms. Susan Sennett was selected to give the opening remarks at AIPAC’s Policy Conference to students, teachers, and advisors from across the country, an honor given only to the top advisors. At AIPAC’s conferences, our students learned about the issues facing the United States-Israel relationship and attended programming to gain advocacy and lobbying skills, further developing their role as ambassadors for Israel. Following presentations, students went to Capitol Hill and used their new skills lobbying their representative to advocate for Israel. Because of ICJA's continued commitment to advocating on behalf of Israel, we have been proud to send at least 10 students to the Policy Conference each year, made possible by The Sam Gorenstein Scholars Fund and subsidies by AIPAC.
Yom Ha'Atzmaut There is no day more special and beloved to ICJA than Yom Ha'Atzmaut. The celebration is a school and community favorite that we eagerly anticipate every year since 1948 when the students of the Chicago Jewish Academy celebrated the creation of Israel. This year we marked the 72nd birthday of our homeland in a unique way, taking the program online. Though it was virtual, we were still able to capture the excitement and enthusiasm of the day. This program has been made possible by the Gertz Family in memory of community pillars Paul and Doris Rosenberg z’l.
1 3
The celebration began from Israel with inspired words of Torah from a modern day Jewish leader and world-renowned teacher, Racheli Fraenkel.
We were joined by our Consul General Aviv Ezra for a passionate and strong presentation about our unwavering love for the land and the people of Israel.
2
Celebrating the 72nd birthday of our homeland together.
9
The celebration continued with some light hearted fun playing the popular trivia game, Israel Family Feud. Students pulled out their knowledge of Israeli history, culture, food and more to win prizes.
4
The event culminated in an exclusive ICJA concert with Israeli singing sensation Ishay Ribo, live from Israel. His music uplifted us on this very special day.
