Graphic by Technical Staff

Upcoming Events:

AP Exams

May 5-16

Pesach Sheni

May 12

Lag Ba'Omer

May 16

Good & Welfare:

Births:

Nicole (Charlap '12) and Jeremy Forman on the birth of a baby girl, Gemma Alexandra

Yaffa (Firestone '15) and Dovid Franco on the birth of a baby boy

Engagements:

Jeremy Jacob ('17) to Alison Kanefsky from Woodmere, NY

Elie Loberfeld ('22) to Eitan Spiewak from Teaneck, NJ

Faculty Mazel Tovs:

Rabbi Ben and Rebecca Sugerman on the birth of a grandson

Condolences:

Liz Stadlan on the loss of her beloved mother, Judith April

In this week's Parsha, Parshas Kedoshim, the Torah says (Vayikra 19:14): Lo tekalell cheresh, meaning “don’t curse a deaf person.” 

But why not? The person’s deaf! They’re never going to hear you!

The answer is a profound lesson for all of us. When one curses or acts rude to someone else, it’s not about the person being cursed. It’s about the one doing the cursing. So many times people will say, “How I talk doesn’t matter! The person I’m talking about doesn’t care!” Hashem teaches us in this week's parsha that this simply is not true. When we speak, we have the power to change who we are as a person. And with that power comes the choice to use it to grow. May we all think before we speak so we can choose growth.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Lanner

A Double Header

KYHS Hosts Community Ceremony for Yom Hazikaron and Celebration for Yom Ha'atzmaut

Graphic by Lexi Newman ('28)

Last week, KYHS hosted the first community-wide Yom Hazikaron-Ha’atzmaut celebration. The event began with a powerful Tekes that commemorated the many fallen IDF soldiers and terror victims. Beautifully spoken in Hebrew and English, different students told the tragic stories of the hostages and former soldiers. The solemn program created an atmosphere of sadness and meaning, but quickly transitioned into the festivities of Yom Ha’atzmaut. Mourning transformed into celebration in an instant.

The event took place outdoors in the KYHS parking lot, where many booths and activities were available for the community to enjoy. People celebrated with a variety of Israeli foods and treats, while exploring the different stands promoted by Jewish community organizations, such as Amit, JAFCO, Friendship Circle, Yachad, and more. Various food trucks, including Playa, ICEE, King David, and Rita’s Ice were brought to add to the night’s festivities. Guests could spot a nine-foot tall light-up man flashing in blue and white, which brought the energy of Yom Ha’atzmaut to new heights. To commemorate Israel's 77 birthday, there was a DJ playing hype music in order to get parents and students energized for the holiday. People danced for hours and still had more energy left! A breathtaking light show filled the sky with images that represented our Homeland. The excitement for Israel was palpable in the air.

The dancing resumed after the light show as glow sticks soared through the air. Children, young and old, danced through the night disregarding the late hour.

Our KYHS students had an unforgettable night. We hope this is the start to an annual, community-wide celebration.

Article by Gabi Aghion ('27)

Click here to see a beautiful sand art video that was shown at the Tekes!

Click here to see the full Yom Hazikaron Tekes!

Click here to see a video recap of the community-wide event!

Click here to all the photos from the event!

 Tzafon VS. Darom

Students Compete in MiniMania Between Rival Locations

Graphic by Mikaela Gottheil ('26)

This past week, KYHS students participated in the first-ever MiniMania: Blue in the north vs. white in the south, in an epic Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration.

We started the day with an inspirational school-wide davening with a musical Hallel led by Ben Lutz. As the day continued, everyone participated in friendship-bonding activities like sports, ELAL paper airplanes, and Israel panoply. Whether students scored goals or showed off their knowledge of our homeland, the energy was high and the fun never stopped. Each student found a way to contribute to their team's success and boost school spirit. Later, students gathered in the cafeteria to enjoy a lunch of delicious falafel, pita, and Israeli salad, while spending quality time with friends.

Everyone loved the day because it was framed around our love for Israel. Tali Leubitz (‘25) reflected on her Mini Mania experience: “It was such an incredible opportunity to have MiniMania on top of Stormania this year. I had the best time playing sports and dancing with my friends.” 

The celebration did not stop after lunch—it only got better. Every inch of the school buzzed with the sound of laughter as students soaked in the lively and energetic atmosphere. As always, the teachers gave it their all, coaching and participating in each activity. To wrap up the day, we ended with a school-wide chagigah, where we heard the much-anticipated results of MiniMania: White team won! Despite the exhilarating competition, students ended the day celebrating Israel's independence together, blue and white dancing side by side.

It was a day filled with unity, fun, and unforgettable memories. 

Article by Orlee Shemesh ('28)

Adios Muchachos!

KYHS Seniors Reflect on Their High School Experience as Their Last Day Approaches

Graphic by Serena Fialkoff ('27)

As the Class of 2025 prepares to say goodbye to KYHS, they reflect on the moments and memories that defined their four years of high school. From spiritual experiences to cheerful celebrations, the students shared what they'll miss most—as well as what they’ll never forget.

For many, the 10th-grade Israel trip stands out as the highlight. “My favorite high school memory was our 10th-grade Israel trip,” shared Yosef Norman (’25). “The class bonding and the experiences we shared were unreal.” He also mentioned the joy of community events at KYHS, such as the weekly Friday kumzitzes and holiday chagigas. “I especially love the Purim chagiga—after a long day of fasting, everyone storms the beit midrash and cafeteria in our grade-coordinated costumes. It’s a moment of pure joy and unity.”

Some students were especially moved by specific moments of the inspiring Israel trip. Aaron Rosenhouse (’25) recalled an overnight at the Kotel with Rabbi Frager, stating, “A group of us split up Sefer Tehillim and recited each chapter, then we davened Shacharit at sunrise inside the shul. The holiness we felt that night was unmatched.” For Aaron—known by many as “Lazaar Point Focus”—high school was more than just classes and tests; it was about finding a sense of identity and purpose. “What I’ll miss most about KYHS is the abundance of opportunities to discover your passions and form lasting connections. I found myself more comfortable at school once I made the name ‘Lazaar Point Focus’ for myself—or as it’s often shouted in the halls: ‘LPF.’ From being part of Varsity Basketball to joining the Behind the Blackboard podcast, these experiences created a family that I will truly miss,” he explained.

Beyond the various trips and programs at KYHS, many students will simply miss the school itself. “What I’ll miss most is the overall environment,” said Rebecca Freedman (’25). “It’s incredibly welcoming and fun, but at the same time, it pushes you to grow—both educationally and personally.”

As the seniors prepare to move on, their reflections remind us that high school isn’t just about academics—it’s about the friendships and formative moments that shape who we’ve become. There is truly much to learn from their message.

We’ll miss you dearly, Class of 2025!



Article by Ava Leubitz ('28)

Our Very Own Chidon Chassidim!

Sruli and Daniel Gross Represent KYHS in the Annual Chidon HaTanach

Graphic and article by Highlites Staff

Mazal tov to Sruli Muschel ('26) and Daniel Gross ('27) on being named national finalists in this year’s Chidon HaTanach competition!

The Chidon HaTanach is a prestigious Tanach contest that tests students on their knowledge of Tanach—Torah, Nevi’im, and Ketuvim. Thousands of students across the country participate each year, studying intensely to prepare for this highly competitive event.

Sruli and Daniel stood out by mastering over 99 perakim (chapters) and scoring among the highest in the nation. Their achievement reflects incredible dedication, deep Torah knowledge, and a true passion for learning.

We are so proud of these remarkable students and wish them continued success in all their Torah endeavors!

Click to read more!

Click to visit website!