SKA sophs leave their classrooms to lobby in DC

In keeping with the belief that learning does not always begin and end in the classroom, grades 9, 10 and 11 of the Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls went on entertaining and educational trips the week of March 9.

Tenth Graders viewed the inner working of our nation’s capital when they journeyed to Washington to meet with senators and congressmen to advocate for Israel.

The sophomore lobbying trip followed weeks of preparation, during which the girls learned about the United States government and the BDS movement from guest speakers and in their History of Israel class. By the time the day of the trip arrived, the students felt confident that their knowledge and public speaking skills were sufficient to enable them to defend the State of Israel and counteract any argument about BDS that would come their way.

Before arriving in Washington, the 10th graders went ice skating, an activity which calmed everyone’s nerves in anticipation of the next day of lobbying.  On Thursday morning, the students split into groups and visited 50 congressional offices. They met with both their local representatives and those from states all over the country. Their well-prepared speeches were very persuasive in informing and convincing government officials to support Israel.

After a delicious meat dinner, the exhausted but elated group of girls boarded the buses to head home.  There was a real sense of accomplishment; not only did the SKA Sophomores prepare themselves to defend Israel in everyday situations, but they made a real difference by convincing influential people to do the same.  This fun and exciting trip had a personal impact on each individual, as well as a large impact on the community as a whole.  

This week, ten SKA students attended the AIPAC conference in Washington together with Ms. Raizy Chechik, SKA Principal Grades 9-10, and Mrs. Rivky Waxman, SKA’s Educational Technology Integrator, and introduced five breakout sessions on Sunday, March 20.  The SKA girls have made a real Kiddush Hashem!

Our thanks go to Ms. Chechik, Rabbi Friedman, Mrs. Mezei, Rabbi Rice, Mrs. Tannenbaum and Mrs. Waxman for chaperoning the 10th Grade trip.  Special thanks for coordinating ALL the trips go to Rabbi Zak, Mrs. Storch and the entire team and the SKA Parent Council who coordinated our teacher appreciation gifts!