THIS YEAR, MAGEN DAVID YESHIVAH HIGH SCHOOL IMPLEMENTED A NEW HONORS PROGRAM FOR ITS FRESHMAN STUDENTS, LED BY PROGRAM DIRECTOR MRS. KIMBERLY DJOUEJATI AND ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, RABBI ELINATAN BITTON. THE THEME THAT THEY WILL BE CONCENTRATING ON THIS YEAR IS LEADERSHIP.
As they began to explore and identify their core values, the first step in discovering their leadership style, students had an overnight stay in Rhode Island and Boston, learning the history of leaders and trailblazers who helped pave our way.
In Newport, Rhode Island, along with Chaperone Ms. Katie Btesh, the group visited Touro Synagogue, the oldest Sephardic Orthodox Shul in the United States, praying Minha in this historic Shul before heading to the Newport mansions. Freshman student Stephen Zekaria reflected, “I thought that going to the Touro Synagogue was very historical and special. I think that it was so great to see such an important part of my Jewish history, as it is the first synagogue ever made in America. I felt very honored and very privileged to go see that shul, because it is the most historically significant Jewish building in the United States. It meant a lot to me to see it at my young age and to be able to pray Minha there with my friends. This made me feel like I am now a part of its history.”
The next day, after Selihot and Shaharit, students went on the famous Boston Duck Tour, where they learned about all the historical places that make Boston the symbol of American Freedom. They then toured Fenway Park to hear about the rich history, culture, and architecture of the amazing ballpark. Freshman Susie Jemal was especially moved by the courage legend Jackie Robinson had. She said, “Jackie Robinson was the first African American player to join the MLB in 1947. This event changed the MLB forever. The courage that Robinson put into his career has taught me that I can start something just by being myself which can change the world. Robinson put himself out into the world and did what he always wanted to do. He has inspired me to live up to my dreams and not to let people put me down. His optimism to achieve his goals encouraged me to be positive in whatever I want to accomplish in life.”
MDYHS anticipates the growth of its Honors Program due to the unprecedented amount of inquiries it has been receiving about it. You can learn more about it at the school’s Open House, Tuesday night November 14th, 7:30 P.M., at MDYHS, 7801 Bay Parkway.
