At YSZ High School for Girls, learning is more than acquiring knowledge—it’s about becoming thoughtful, giving, and purpose-driven Jewish women. This year’s Book Day, centered around Adam Grant’s Give and Take, was an opportunity for students to explore how generosity and character shape success. Through engaging discussions, creative expression, and hands-on activities, they were challenged to think deeply and empowered to become lifelong learners and contributors to their communities.
Kickoff – All About Kindness
The day began with a warm and engaging kickoff and breakfast, setting the tone for reflection and inspiration. Mrs. Lyudmila Meirova then shared her journey to All About Kindness, illustrating how a single act of giving can transform both the giver and the receiver. Her powerful message left students inspired to weave kindness into their daily lives—an essential trait of a proud and committed Jewish woman.
Book Talk & Found Poem
Students engaged deeply with the book by selecting powerful lines and ideas from Give and Take to create their own Found Poems. This creative exercise allowed them to personalize and internalize the book’s themes in a meaningful way, turning words into art and reflection.
Connections That Count
Students explored how strong networks are built, why helping others can open doors, and how small gestures can lead to big opportunities. Through interactive discussions and reflections, they discovered that success isn’t just about what you know—but also about how you show up for others. This session reinforced the power of generosity, the impact of meaningful connections, and the way kindness can shape both individual growth and communal success.
Tu B’Shvat Seder
A highlight of the day was the Tu B’Shvat seder, where students journeyed through four courses of fruit, including the Shiv’at Haminim. Each stage was introduced by a student speaker, adding a personal touch to the experience. Mrs. Rina Zerykier, menahelet, shared a moving message about the power of t'filah for others, leaving students with a deeper sense of connection and purpose.
Competition vs. Collaboration
Is it better to compete or collaborate? Students put this question to the test in a dynamic challenge that required both teamwork and strategic thinking. Afterward, they reflected on how competition and collaboration each play a role in their lives—learning when to push themselves and when working together leads to greater success.
The Transformative Power Of Chessed
Mrs. Jackie Bitton, a world-renowned speaker known for her powerful storytelling, delivered a talk that was more than an inspiring close—it was a call to action. She reminded students that giving isn’t just about helping others; it’s about becoming the best version of themselves. She spoke about the transformative power of chessed—how acts of kindness shape individuals and communities in profound ways. It was the perfect conclusion to a day that embodied the YSZ mission: to inspire, challenge, and empower students to live lives of chessed, purpose, and connection.
Closing Reflection
Book Day was not just about reading—it was about growth. Through exploring the themes of Give and Take, students gained insights that will continue to shape them far beyond the classroom. They were inspired to give, challenged to think deeply, and empowered to act—carrying the lessons of the day into their families, communities, and futures as proud Jewish women.
The Power Of Giving: YSZ HS For Girls Book Day
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