Day 7: Jewish Education in NJ - March 19, 2013

Today, March 19^th, the Israeli Dillers toured Jewish day schools, Golda Och Academy and Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School. Earlier in the morning (after the delayed opening!), the Dillers traveled to Golda Och, where they spoke with Linda Coppleson, a teacher and Soferet. A Soferet, the scribe of the Torah and other Judaic arts, gave a short presentation about how she became interested in Judaism and becoming a Soferet, something that is atypical for a woman to be. Coppleson showed the kids some of the Ketubot that she written and illustrated. After her presentation, the Israelis each had the opportunity to write a letter in the Torah that she is currently writing. This was an exciting and spiritual moment for all, something that no one will ever forget. Then, the Dillers traveled to Kushner and toured around the school. They also went into some of the classes, including Spanish and Talmud classes. Sitting in on these classes was both educational and interesting, especially for those who do not typically have the experience of learning about Talmud on a regular basis. It was also interesting to see the differences in the Conservative and Orthodox day schools and how they each incorporated Jewish values and Zionism into their daily lives. The Israelis ended their tours back at the Whippany Federation where they got to spend time with their favorite Americans!

-Eden Posner

Today at the workshop, we started out by schmoozing while waiting for the Israelis to finish with their activity. Michael Paisner was kind enough to treat us all to homemade chocolate chip cookies! When we joined with the Israelis, we all got right to work on the Israeli Summer Seminar (ISS). We broke up into our groups and were very productive. Then, we paused for an Italian dinner. We then were introduced to four different Rabbis (one orthodox, one conservative, one reconstructionist, and one reform) who spoke briefly about their beliefs. We broke up into four groups and spoke to the Rabbis individually as they rotated every ten minutes. It was truly riveting as we were engaged in philosophical debates with Rabbis we normally do not get to ask questions to. When the allotted time had elapsed, we still had half an hour that we used to organize the Camp and Seminar for the ISS. This was very hectic, but all groups accomplished an amazing amount of work. Finally, we all got into a circle to hear some announcements, but what was really special was that Liav, our fearless leader of the day, made us all notes with an important message on them: “Everyone has their own voice, their own opinion and world-view. However, when all the voices come together, harmony is created between all the voices, tremendous music is formed, and the nation becomes united.” - A perfect way to sum up our day. 

- Coby Bernstein

Thank you, Michael for the delicious treat!