Chabad Hebrew School of Orange County, aka “Hebrew’s Cool,” found a meaningful and spirited way to celebrate the year-end Moving Up Awards Ceremony, despite the challenges presented by the current pandemic.
“Once again, it was time to think out of the ordinary. Our students invested tremendous effort in learning this year and deserve to celebrate their accomplishments,” says Chana Burston, who co-directs Chabad of Orange County with her husband, Rabbi Pesach. The celebration included two parts; the first being a memorable “meet and greet” celebratory drive-through and party bag pickup, followed by a zoom awards ceremony.
The spirited drive-through took place at the Chabad Center in Chester. Chabad Hebrew School families were greeted by cheering teachers and staff with vibrant music and a sparkling “Mazel Tov” banner! Students were thrilled to see their teachers and enjoy kosher ice cream. Participants also received a beautiful bag full of gifts and awards. Customized water bottles were filled with treats, and graduating students received trophies. Students and families then headed home for part two of the exciting day.
The Zoom virtual awards ceremony was joined by students and their families, grandparents, friends and the Chabad Hebrew School staff and volunteers. The ceremony began with students singing the Hebrew School theme song, and Rabbi Pesach and Chana welcomed everyone! Participants watched a fascinating video illustrating that no matter what happens in the world, Torah learning and Jewish tradition will continue. Student Gabi Patsiner of Monroe recited a meaningful prayer on behalf of all of the students. “Please, G-d, on behalf of all my fellow Chabad Hebrew school of Orange County classmates, and all the Jewish kids around the world, we ask, we pray, and we beg: please remove this virus from us. Please heal everyone who is sick, provide safety to our medical staff, and keep all our families safe….We ask you, G-d, please return us to our regular life. Let us be reunited with our families, friends, and Hebrew School community.”
Students were excited to open their surprise boxes and find an array of decorating materials and cupcakes to create a “Har (Mount) Sinai” cupcake in honor of the upcoming holiday of Shavuot. The graduating students were then honored, and Isabella Hauck of Middletown shared reflections on behalf of the graduates. “When I walked into Chabad when I was a little girl, Rabbi Pesach and Chana welcomed me with open arms…I have learned so much about Jewish traditions and made so many friends – we are like one big family.”
Two Hebrew School parents shared thoughts about their experience at Chabad. Iryna Goldenberg of Warwick praised Chabad for their ability to continue educating virtually. “While everything was shutting down, Chabad was quick to be creative and stay open, bringing the Jewish lessons into our home” she said – my children, Fiana and Landon couldn’t wait for the virtual lessons.”
Parent Melissa Crowe spoke about her many years as part of Chabad. “Chana and Rabbi Pesach seem to have a mission to bring learning to life…in Chabad the learning is interactive …they often cook and create treats as part of their learning…Chana and Rabbi Pesach have also consistently reinforced living with moral values. My kids were encouraged to give tzedakah (charity) and to perform mitzvot by participating in community outreach…I am truly grateful that we have found our way to Chabad.” All enjoyed a photo highlight video, after which each student was spotlighted and congratulated for their achievements this year. Rabbi Pesach and Chana expressed their deep appreciation to the incredible teachers, staff, parents and teen volunteers. Chana Burston emphasized as the ceremony came to a close, “Learning never ends! To each and every student – continue to shine with Jewish pride as you play your unique role in the unbreakable chain of Jewish history you belong to. Am Yisroel Chai (The Jewish nation lives on!)”
Chabad Hebrew School is open to Jewish children of all affiliations and no one will be turned down due to lack of funds. For more information on Chabad Hebrew School, log onto ChabadOrange.com, email [email protected] or call 845-782-2770.
look at those smiles on the children’s faces!
Amazin Job, Chana and Pesach Burston