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ECLC 7th Grade "Tikkun Olam in Action" Program with AKLA Teen Leadership Fellowship
This week, I’m excited to highlight our 7th-grade program, “Tikkun Olam in Action,” and the impactful off-campus field trips we’ve experienced over the past five Sundays. In partnership with AKLA’s Teen Leadership Fellowship, our students engaged in a series of educational and inspiring excursions. These trips allowed them to connect deeply with Jewish values, foster a strong sense of Jewish pride, and strengthen their connection to Israel. Here’s a recap of our journey:
1. Israeli Technology & Innovation - Skirball Center
Our first trip took us to the Skirball Cultural Center, where students experienced an impressive introduction to Israeli innovation. They began
with a unique VR presentation developed by the Technion in Israel specifically for AKLA participants. Through VR headsets, students "met" Albert Einstein, explored Israel's Iron Dome defense system, and learned about drip irrigation, showcasing Israel’s technological advancements. Next, they attended a hands-on drone presentation, where students learned about Israel's innovations in drone technology, including advancements used for both military and civilian purposes. The students then got to fly drones through an obstacle course, adding a fun, interactive component that brought the technology to life. This immersive experience highlighted Israel’s global contributions in technology, making Jewish & Israeli innovation tangible and memorable.
2. Israeli Security & Defense - Jewish Federation LA
During our second visit at the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles, students learned about Jewish security, starting with an insightful overview from CSI, the Federation’s security team dedicated to protecting Jewish institutions in Los Angeles. We discussed the importance of community safety and how these measures reflect our commitment to resilience. The day also included a Krav Maga class led by the Krav Maga Alliance, where students practiced self-defense techniques pioneered by the Israeli Army. This hands-on experience instilled pride in Israel’s commitment to protection and the strength of the Jewish community.
3. Jewish Narratives in Media & Arts - Warner Brothers Studios
Our third adventure brought us to Warner Brothers Studios, where students enjoyed a private tour of the lot. We delved into the significant contributions of Jewish founders in Hollywood and discussed iconic characters with Jewish themes, like Superman and the Mandalorian. The day concluded with a special visit to the DC Superhero exhibition, where students saw firsthand how Jewish values have influenced popular culture and the arts, fostering a connection to the power of storytelling.
4. Jewish Medical Innovation - Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
At Cedars-Sinai, students were welcomed into the Simulation and Education Center for a hands-on look at cutting-edge medical technology. Led by Dr. Svendsen, head of the Generative Research Lab, students toured the stem cell research facilities and even saw a real human brain donated for research. They learned about groundbreaking stem cell treatments in areas such as ALS, spinal cord injuries, and eye disease. Our students also explored the history of Cedars-Sinai as LA’s first Jewish hospital, established to serve a community in need. They practiced CPR on a highly realistic mannequin, which offered a hands-on approach to learning about medical care and Jewish values in action.
5. Holocaust Education & Reflection - Museum of Tolerance
Our final experience took place at the Museum of Tolerance, where students reflected on the Holocaust through a guided tour covering the rise of the Nazi party and the importance of bystander intervention. We then had the privilege of hearing the moving testimony of Ella, a 98-year-old Holocaust survivor, who shared her personal journey of resilience and loss during World War II. This day concluded with a lunch at Hillcrest Country Club, sponsored by the Polak Family Foundation, where students enjoyed a recap video and shared reflections on their experiences (So many of our students are highlighted It ‘s truly worth watching!)
Each of these trips has been thoughtfully designed to inspire our students, instill a sense of Jewish pride, and foster a meaningful connection to Israel. We are grateful for the support of the AKLA Teen Leadership Fellowship and the David and Janet Polak Family Foundation, which have made this transformative journey possible for our ECLC 7th-grade students.
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