Reflections from the Prizmah Conference: Strengthening Our Jewish Identity and Community
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Prizmah Conference in Boston, MA—an incredibly intensive and enriching experience filled with thought-provoking lectures and hands-on workshops. The conference gathered Jewish educators and leaders from across North America to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of Jewish education. As I reflect on my time there, I am eager to share two key takeaways that deeply resonated with me and reinforced the strength of our own Yavneh community.
The Importance of Strengthening Jewish Identity
The events of October 7th and the rising tide of antisemitism have reminded us that now, more than ever, it is critical to teach and embrace our Jewish identity with pride. Jewish education is not just about academics—it is about nurturing a deep love for who we are, for Israel, and for our traditions. We must ensure that our children not only know our history, but also feel confident in expressing them in the world. This means fostering an environment where students understand and appreciate their heritage, engage in meaningful conversations about Jewish values, and develop a strong connection to Israel. At Yavneh, we are committed to making this a core part of our mission.
Our School is a Model of Community and Connection
While learning from educators from across the country, I realized just how unique and special our Yavneh community truly is. Many schools strive to build the type of connection we already have—where students of different ages interact meaningfully, where Tefillah (prayer) is a communal and consistent part of our weekly schedule, and where a genuine sense of belonging pervades our hallways.
Our buddy system, which fosters relationships between younger and older students, is a rarity among Jewish day schools, and it is a source of tremendous pride. It creates a warm and supportive atmosphere where students learn from one another, develop leadership skills, and build friendships that transcend age groups. Additionally, our whole-school Tefillah strengthens our sense of unity, allowing us to come together in prayer and reflection as one cohesive community.
This year, I have also seen our faculty grow in remarkable ways. Our teachers have embraced collaboration across grade levels, fostering a sense of mutual respect and shared vision. Through inclusive faculty meetings, every teacher’s voice is heard, valued, and incorporated into our collective decision-making. This spirit of unity among our staff directly impacts our students, as they witness and benefit from an environment where teamwork, respect, and open communication are fundamental values.
Attending the Prizmah Conference has reaffirmed my deep appreciation for what we have built here at Yavneh. We are not just a school; we are a family, dedicated to educating, inspiring, and nurturing the next generation of proud, knowledgeable, and engaged Jewish leaders. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us.
~ Aviva
