Chanukah began Sunday night, in a week that has felt especially heavy with news of violent antisemitic attacks in Australia and gun violence at Brown University. On Monday morning, our community gathered in a moment of collective prayer, reciting Tehillim (psalms) over the loudspeaker in solidarity with the victims. As we have so often experienced in difficult times, the Gann community responded by coming together.
Celebrating Chanukah has felt complicated this year, but as a Jewish school we remain deeply committed to strengthening our communal bonds and affirming the power of Jewish joy. As Dr. Dalia Hochman reminded us, “We will not let violent, antisemitic acts extinguish our light or diminish the importance of our students experiencing the richness of our tradition.”
Every day of Chanukah included a daily tekkes (assembly) and all-school candle-lighting. Students shared personal reflections on their Jewish identities and performed dramatic scenes inspired by the themes of Chanukah. Each gathering was a full sensory experience—prayer and music, meaningful words, and the joy of being together.
From Spike Krauss’s spirited song-leading to the beautiful vocals and instrumentals of our student musicians, the cafeteria was filled with Chanukah music. We enjoyed crispy latkes—thank you to Rabbi Noah, Reva, and their student chefs—for both classic and creative takes, along with an array of toppings. Students also gravitated to the ever-popular French Fry Bar and special Chanukah entrées prepared by our talented Food Service team.
Each day, students lit the menorah against a backdrop of glowing string lights. Each candle lighting, the American and Israeli flags were beautifully framed in the cafeteria windows, snapping in the harsh cold while warmth and light filled the room inside.
Thank you to everyone who helped make these moments of light, connection, and celebration possible.
