From April 3 to April 9, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County proudly welcomed a School Twinning delegation from our partner city, Zichron Yaakov, Israel. The visit, which marked the first in-person connection between Israeli and local educators in seven years, was a powerful reminder of the bonds that unite us, and the work being done on both sides to educate the next generation.

Led by Idit Oshrat, our Partnership2Gether Director in Israel, the delegation included nine leaders from Zichron Yaakov’s education system: three school principals, five teachers, and Miriam, the Head of Zichron Yaakov’s Education Department. These passionate educators came to connect and reconnect with their partners in Jewish Day and congregational schools, to share ideas and experiences, and to plan for the 2025-2026 school year.

The group spent their visit immersed in the traditions, values, and daily life of our Jewish community. They explored our vibrant Federation campus, Donna Klein Jewish Academy, Calusa Elementary School, Liumi West Retreat, and several local religious schools, including those at Temple Beth El of Boca Raton, B’nai Torah Congregation, and Congregation Shaarei Kodesh. A highlight for many was participating in a moving Women’s Seder at Congregation B’nai Israel, where the voices of Israeli and American women came together in celebration, reflection, and hope.

The visit went beyond education. It was a mutual exchange of culture, values, and love for our shared Jewish heritage. As one educator from the delegation, Ainav Michaeli, reflected, “When we connect students, we are actually connecting worlds. And perhaps this is the deepest lesson I have brought from there — that in a unity that does not erase differences, in a real connection between all parts of the Jewish nation, lies our power to face any challenge.”

Whether it was hearing third graders pray for IDF soldiers, witnessing the diversity of Jewish practice within our community, or exchanging stories of resilience and strength during challenging times, the experience left a lasting impression on all parties.

Through Partnership2Gether’s school twinning program and our continued commitment to deepening Israel-Diaspora relationships, we reaffirm that Am Yisrael Chai – the Jewish people live, and thrive, together. We are investing in our future by connecting and jointly educating L’Dor V’ Dor (from generation to generation.)

We are grateful to our partners in Zichron Yaakov, the Jewish Agency for Israel, and all our local educators and institutions who helped bring this delegation to life. Together, we continue to strengthen the fabric of global Jewish peoplehood, one relationship, one conversation, one shared moment at a time.