Strengthening Jewish Education: Mrs. Berkowitz’s Experience in Israel

Chaviva High School's principal, Mrs. Berkowitz, recently returned from a meaningful trip to Israel as part of the Cleveland Jewish Educators Cohort, facilitated by M²: The Institute for Experiential Jewish Education. Over the past year and a half, she has been actively engaged with this cohort, which brings together 20 Jewish educators to deepen their understanding and practice of experiential learning.

The week-long visit to Israel provided an opportunity to learn from the stories of those who have shown resilience in the face of adversity. Immersed in Israel's rich culture and history during an emotional time for the Jewish people, the experience offered valuable insights into how communities respond to challenging circumstances.

One of the highlights of the trip was reconnecting with Chaviva graduates from the classes of 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 at a special alumnae dinner. This gathering not only celebrated the strong bond between the school and its graduates but also reinforced the lasting impact of a Chaviva education.

The immersive seminar, rooted in the values of Israel's Declaration of Independence, allowed participants to engage in deep discussions, site visits, and meaningful dialogues with Israeli M² alumni. Beyond the structured learning, the trip’s true depth emerged in the unplanned moments, such as processing the tragic news of the Bibas family. These experiences highlighted the importance of being present and learning to navigate complexity and grief while seeking hope and renewal.

Mrs. Berkowitz's experience in Israel will enhance her leadership at Chaviva High School, as she brings back valuable insights on resilience, unity, and the power of experiential learning. Her dedication to fostering meaningful connections within the Jewish community continues to inspire both students and staff.