Ezra Academy Sophomore Class Deepens Bonds at Woodmere Shabbaton

Ezra Academy’s sophomore class spent an uplifting and memorable Shabbaton this past weekend in Woodmere, graciously hosted by Congregation Aish Kodesh and the broader Woodmere community. The experience offered students a meaningful blend of spiritual growth, community connection, and grade-wide bonding.

The weekend began Friday night with inspiring divrei chizuk following Kabbalat Shabbat. Rabbi Weinberger highlighted Ezra Academy’s role as a formative foundation for its students, encouraging the sophomores to recognize and fully seize the opportunities before them during these pivotal high school years.

Throughout Shabbat, students enjoyed beautifully hosted seudot — together as an entire grade on Friday night and in smaller groups with faculty and community members during the day. These meals, along with warm oneg Shabbat gatherings in local homes, created space for genuine connection, conversation, and camaraderie among students, faculty, and hosts.

Shabbat concluded with a powerful shalosh seudot address by Charlie Harary, who reinforced a resonant message: this moment in the sophomores’ journey is rich with possibility, growth, and purpose.

The Shabbaton wrapped up on Motza'ei Shabbat with a lively melaveh malkah featuring pizza, followed by a trip to Activate at Roosevelt Field Mall. The interactive gaming experience provided a fun, high-energy finale that strengthened bonds and left students with shared memories to carry forward.

Ezra Academy extends a heartfelt yasher koach and sincere thanks to the Woodmere community for opening their homes and hearts and for helping create such a meaningful and impactful Shabbaton for our sophomores.