When Tishrei Comes Alive in General Studies

When Tishrei Comes Alive in General Studies
Who says the month of Tishrei only happens in Judaic studies? In our General Studies classrooms, students brought the spirit of the Yomim Tovim into science, social studies, and literature. Each lesson became an opportunity to explore the world through the lens of curiosity, creativity, and meaning.
In Morah Esti’s science class, students dove into the world of animals and learned where a shofar really comes from. As they studied sheep and their unique characteristics, they were fascinated to discover how something from nature becomes such an important part of Tishrei. The classroom was filled with excitement as science and tradition connected in such a surprising way.
Our middle school scientists took their curiosity to a microscopic level. They used Petri dishes to observe how germs grow and quickly saw how something invisible at first can make a big difference. The girls were amazed to realize how much impact something small can have, a powerful reminder that our actions matter even when they are unseen.
In Rabbi Shmuel’s social studies class, students explored the concept of a trial by jury and the right to a fair trial. They discussed how fairness and justice are essential in every society and reflected on what it means to be judged fairly. The conversations helped them connect what they learn in history to their own sense of responsibility and growth during this time of year.
In Morah Malka’s reading class, students were captivated by a powerful story about the sound of the shofar and how it once saved the day. They learned about the time of British rule in Mandatory Palestine, when brave men would blow the shofar at the Western Wall on Yom Kippur, even though it was forbidden. The story came to life as students read how Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Kook’s persistence led the British to finally allow this sacred tradition. The class loved discovering how courage and faith could be heard in the simple call of a ram’s horn.
To end the month, students in ELA reflected on the phrase “V’Yaakov halach ledarko” “And Yaakov went on his way.” Each student wrote what they are taking with them in their “suitcase” for the year ahead: lessons, goals, and inspiration from Tishrei to carry into their learning journey.
From discovering how shofars are made to learning about justice, courage, and self-growth, our General Studies students found that Tishrei can come alive in every subject. When curiosity meets creativity, every lesson becomes a celebration of both learning and life.