Seventh Grade Experiential Education Focuses on Leadership, Tzedek

Our seventh graders embarked last week for their three-day, two-night outdoor education trip. This experiential education trip focused on the themes of leadership and tzedek (justice), two themes that permeate the seventh grade curriculum. Students collaborated in group challenges; hiked through the woods; spent time discussing different types of leadership and the choices they can make around tzedakah; and participated in tefillah rotations including fitness and mindfulness, poetry and prose writing, and making inspirational cards for the Raphael House. Before heading home, seventh graders were divided into two groups to participate in service project at Raphael House—where they sorted and organized donated clothing, planted in the garden, and helped with general cleaning—and the Jewish Home—where they celebrated Shabbat with residents through songs, prayers, and instruments.

 

“The seventh graders had the opportunity to bond, to recognize one another's core values as we began our tzedek journey, and to work on stepping up and stepping back as they examined their leadership skills,” says teacher Jody Bloom. “One of my favorite moments was on our tefillah walk through the redwoods when the students went off to find a quiet place to reflect for their personal amidah.” MORE PHOTOS