A Journey of Growth and Connection: Jewish Online School Day School Girls Graduation

The Day School Girls Graduation at Jewish Online School (JOS) was a phenomenal and emotional event, celebrating the achievements, growth, and inner strength of our students as they completed an important chapter in their lives.

The program opened with Mrs. Hertzel, who beautifully framed the event around the three pillars of our school: Torah, Tefillah, and Tzedakah. These values have shaped our girls into thoughtful, committed Jewish young women.

A special highlight was a letter from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, read in English by Morah Malka. This letter—carefully chosen for the occasion—offered timeless words of blessing and encouragement. Morah Sarah and Morah Miriam then led the group in heartfelt recitations of Tehillim 20 and 130, adding a spiritual and reflective tone to the program.

Morah Hindy shared a moving poem based on Parshat Beha’alotcha, reminding us that while this moment marks the end of one journey, it is truly about the next stage ahead—the continuing journey of growth, learning, and becoming. Her words captured the essence of graduation: not just looking back, but looking forward.

We then heard from our graduates, beginning with two heartfelt reflections. Lia spoke about the importance of taking chances and the depth of what she will carry forward from her time at JOS. Zisa followed with a sincere and touching thank you to her teachers—especially Morah Hindy—for the support and guidance that shaped her growth over the years.

Morah Aviana then introduced the Level 8 graduates by asking each of them to share the "souvenir" they are taking with them from their JOS experience:

  • Chana Rivkah reflected on the warmth and home-like feeling of JOS, how much she gained, and her hopes to return next year.

  • Liz expressed deep gratitude to Morah Sarah and Morah Aviana, who believed in her and helped her grow—even when she struggled to believe in herself.

  • Rochel painted a vivid picture of growing up and waiting for this milestone moment, emphasizing how JOS gave her not only learning but life lessons to carry with her every day.

  • Shaina offered a brief and heartfelt thank you to her teachers.

  • Oryah shared how she arrived shy and uncertain, but quickly blossomed into her full self during her short time at JOS.

  • Aliza spoke with dedication and pride, sharing how even while on vacation, she never missed a class—her commitment to JOS was that strong.

  • Esther shared that JOS is more than just a class it's an experience with family, icnluding the fun and pranks :)

  • Shulamit reflected on her journey from afterschool programming to full-time day school, sharing how each stage and teacher helped her grow. She also described the special experience of learning alongside her sister.

Toby delivered a moving reflection on the history of JOS—from its early days to today—and how the school has grown alongside her. She also honored the event by playing Pomp and Circumstance on her violin as the graduation processional music. Her emotional speech included the quote that quickly became a favorite: “What do you mean I’m already crying? How are you girls not crying?”

As their teacher, Morah Aviana shared some final reflections on the journey they took together. She spoke about the life cycle class, and how the journey of the Neshama mirrors the students’ experience: nervous and unsure at the start of the year, but then so deeply attached and connected that saying goodbye is painful. These girls created a community—so much so that their mothers had to remind them to hang up Zoom calls or take breaks from the class chat!

After her remarks, the girls presented a special thank-you to each of their teachers, recognizing the care, support, and Torah they received every day.

Mrs. Hertzel returned to close the program with the awarding of diplomas. As each graduate was called up, her personal quote from the yearbook was read—words that reflected her essence and contribution to the JOS family. Parents joined in, presenting the diplomas and offering their heartfelt Mazal Tov wishes.

We ended the evening with a group picture and a feeling of deep fulfillment. The graduation wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a celebration of each girl's transformation. Some of these students have been with us for years, and it’s been a privilege to watch them grow—not only academically, but in confidence, kindness, and connection to Yiddishkeit.

As our graduates continue their journeys—some moving on to JOS High School, and others to outstanding brick-and-mortar schools like Shaarei Bina (Arizona), Bader Hillel (Milwaukee), Bais Yaakov of Boca, and Chomesh (Toronto)—we know they go forward with strong foundations and bright futures.

Mazal Tov to the JOS Day School Girls Class of 5785/2025! May your journeys ahead be filled with light, strength, and endless growth.