Overnight trips and typical Shabbatons might not be possible during the current pandemic, but that did not stop Shulamith High School from planning an unforgettable, unbelievable “unShabbaton.” With the theme of “Unbreakable,” SHS showed its grit and unyielding determination and positivity December 3, 4, and 5. Thursday afternoon found grade cohorts preparing their rooms, writing gramins, practicing dances, and preparing for the evening’s activities. Students arrived in the evening for a Challah Bake led by the incredible Mrs. Sara Shafran. Grade cohorts were separated by glass walls but the achdus was still palpable in a huge, lit up and decorated tent. Students at home had all supplies delivered and were able to Zoom into the evening. Mrs. Shafran related each ingredient of challah to what it takes to overcome adversity and, afterward, used her phenomenal voice to lead a masked kumzitz.
While the challah dough rose, Mrs. Batya Feigenbaum, religious guidance coordinator, shared an “unbreakable traditions” story. Senior advisor, Mrs. Naomi Munk, shared a personal and unbelievable story of her family creating a menorah during the Holocaust. Afterward, grades were divided for a traditional tisch. The freshmen were treated to a shiur by Rabbi Simon Taylor while the sophomores enjoyed a shiur by Rabbi Jacob Bernstein. Juniors were enthralled by SHS’s own Rabbi Heshy Blumstein and seniors excitingly greeted Rabbi Aaron Feigenbaum for their tisch. To end the evening, students received a Swag Box. Seniors stayed after for a Senior Sushi and Shmooze with games with faculty.
Friday opened with an awesome dvar Torah by GO President, Ellyana Pilevsky, who spoke of miracles and perseverance. A round robin of faculty shiurim followed with the theme being “Am Yisroel Chai.” Students were treated to a “Minute to Win It” themed game called “How Unbreakable Are You?” The day closed with a Glee Club performance that rocked the house!
Motzaei Shabbos brought students back to campus with the Y-Studs leading Havdalah and an introduction by principal, Mrs. Sara Munk, before each grade went on their trip. The ninth graders went to play laser tag, 10th went rock climbing, 11th went paintballing, and the 12th graders went to create sculptures in the dark. The evening was not complete! After returning to school for pizza, the grade performances began with divrei Torah, decorated rooms, gramins, and dances. Faculty and students cheered on the performers until midnight!
Like always, SHS took the challenge of creating a safe but unforgettable Shabbaton and rose to the occasion with vigor. SHS thanks students, faculty, the GO, and all who made the unShabbaton happen, with a special thank you to dean of students, Mrs. Ricky Gaerman, and director of student activities, Ms. Esty Munk, who worked tirelessly on student activities.
