SAR Academy Commemorates Oct. 7 Anniversary

SAR Academy gathered as one to mark the anniversary of the October 7 tragedy with a powerful school-wide commemoration. Alongside elected officials, clergy, soldiers, survivors, and community leaders, we stood On the Steps for a moving program featuring heartfelt songs by our Middle School choir, a tribute to our IDF reservists, tehillim, and memorial candle lighting.

We thank Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY 15th District) and Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson for their inspiring words of unwavering support for the Jewish community. Special thanks also to Chazan Shim Craimer, former SAR parent and faculty member, Rav Steven Exler, Senior Rabbi of the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale and SAR parent, David Glazer, former SAR parent and faculty member, Abby Marcus, SAR alum, Ron Segev, survivor of the Nova Festival, Shai Bernstein, SAR parent and reservist, and Eli Craimer, former SAR student, for joining us for tefilot and sharing their meaningful experiences with our students.

Throughout the day, students participated in meaningful programming. Together, we created a rock garden made of 1,200 rocks, symbolizing the lives lost since October 7. Each rock carries a word or image of hope, unity, or prayer. Grades 1-5 engaged in special lessons focused on core Jewish values: Tefila, Chesed, Achdut, Tikvah, and Arevut.

We remember those we lost and continue to pray for the safe return of the hostages, healing for the wounded, and protection for our soldiers. May the new year bring peace and safety to Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael.