FRESHMEN CONNECT ON ANNUAL WHITEWATER RAFTING TRIP

In an exciting start to the new school year, the students in the freshman class at HAFTR High School participated in the annual Freshman Trip. Students had an opportunity to bond and create everlasting friendships through a fantastic trip of whitewater rafting in Pennsylvania, held at Pocono Whitewater Rafting. On Wednesday, September 14, students began their day bright and early with davening followed by a long, but fun bus ride to Pennsylvania. There are students from many different middle schools and communities, and this trip gave students a chance to not only hang out with old friends but also to meet new ones

Before long, the group arrived at the rafting site and eagerly boarded the boats. It was hard to believe that the ride lasted eight miles, since it felt much shorter. The entire trip down the rapids was filled with laughter, thrills, and excitement. Even though many people, students and faculty alike, were drenched and exhausted, it was the best day

The adventure ended with a delicious barbeque and more bonding on the bus ride back to HAFTR. This was a memorable experience and a unique way for students to develop meaningful friendships with old and new classmates. Students had a great time and can’t wait to continue growing and learning as one cohesive grade.

HAFTR High School teamed up with the New York Blood Center in an effort to help those in need. On Monday, November 14, students, faculty, and members of the HAFTR community gathered in the gym, eager to help with the blood shortage crisis in America. With a total of 41 donations, HAFTR will be able to help save over a hundred lives. The donations ran smoothly with the aid of New York Blood Center nurses, Mrs. Schechter, Director of Student Life, and student coordinator Sophie Gilbert, senior. Everyone had smiles on their faces knowing they were participating in such an important chesed. With snacks and drinks provided by the New York Blood Center, everyone stayed hydrated and strong. Thank you to all those who donated, and tried to donate, and to all of the volunteers who helped throughout the afternoon.

HAFTR High School recently hosted “Israel Night” for senior girls, an evening where students and their parents learn about the variety of learning programs available to them in Israel. On Wednesday, November 9, students from HAFTR, NSHA, HANC, SKA, and Shulamith participated in the first in-person Israel Night since 2019. Rabbi Lewis Wienerkur, director of Israel Guidance at HAFTR High School, met with HAFTR students and parents to give them an overview of the program. Rabbi Wienerkur works with each student to assist in finding the seminary that fits her own personal goals.

Students were fortunate to meet representatives from the following schools: Tomer Devorah, Baer Miriam, Amudim, Midreshet Moriah, Emunah Ve-Omanut, Midreshet Harova, Migdal Oz, MTC, Bar Ilan, Bnot Torah, Aish Gesher, Midreshet Amit, MMY, Darchai Bina, Michlalah, Sha'alvim for women, Midreshet Lindenbaum, Eshel, Nishmat, MTVA, Tiferet, Machon Maayan, and Midreshet Tehillah The night was well-organized and informative Each seminary presented in a classroom, where girls and their parents were able to listen to presentations that offered an overview of what the seminary had to offer The girls attended three 25-minute sessions, where they were able to learn more detailed information and ask questions about the seminary Since every girl has different goals and aspirations, it is crucial to find the right seminary to foster and encourage those values This program offered participants insights into each school as well as themselves and was a valuable step in choosing the appropriate Israel program for the upcoming year