It was a day of firsts for Strelitz International Academy’s first grade students. On Friday, May 21, SIA first graders each received their very own Siddur (prayer book). In line with the SIA Hebrew Language, SIA first grade students have been learning to read and write in Hebrew, building their repertoire of Tefillot (prayers) since the first day of school. The ceremony included the children using these newly acquired skills during a beautiful outdoor performance.
Dressed in white, the first grade students took their places on the stage and sang some of the prayers they had learned from their teacher, Marnie Waldman. The first graders smiled brightly, sang beautifully, and held their brand new Siddurim with a great sense of pride. The performance finale was the singing of Oseh Shalom, praying for a time when peace will reign all over the world. The event concluded with students receiving celebratory cupcakes and posing for photos with their Siddur and parents.
Students will continue to use their personal siddur throughout their time at the Strelitz International Academy. Upon graduation in fifth grade, students will have learned the prayers of the siddur, as well as understand the messages of history, gratitude, and connection with Israel and the Jewish community.
Rashi Brashevitzky is Strelitz International Academy’s Judaic Studies director.