CJ Strauss ’26 and Alex Cagle ’26, leaders of the Jewish Student Alliance (JSA), shared information about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur with students in grades 6-8 at the Middle School Community meeting on Sept. 24. The Wardlaw+Hartridge School was closed for both holidays on Sept. 23 and Oct. 2.
CJ focused her talk on Rosh Hashanah, including details about the meaning of the holiday, how it’s celebrated, and the many traditions and foods associated with the Jewish New Year. Foods enjoyed on Rosh Hashanah include apples, honey and round challah.
Alex discussed Yom Kippur, sharing information about a holiday also known as the Day of Atonement. He addressed three questions (What and When is Yom Kippur? Why is it important?), shared several traditions and practices and concluded with various things the holiday teaches. Important teachings of Yom Kippur include reflection and forgiveness.