School Resumes in Sderot Amid Ongoing Tensions on Gaza Border

The start of the 2024 school year in Israel’s southern city of Sderot marked a poignant moment in the face of ongoing turmoil.

Just one year after the unprecedented and violent attacks from Hamas that left lasting scars on the community, schools in Sderot opened their doors on September 1, 2024, amidst an atmosphere of resilience and hope.

In the early morning hours of October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a brutal assault from Gaza, leading to the deaths of innocent civilians in Sderot.

The attacks devastated the community, forcing tens of thousands of residents to evacuate as homes and public places suffered significant damage. For over five months, families huddled in bomb shelters, with many displaced from their homes and schools.

As the new school year approached, Sderot’s educators faced not only the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic but also the psychological toll of the ongoing conflict. In a community already accustomed to life near the Gaza border, the challenges felt insurmountable.

Despite the daunting landscape, the response from Sderot’s schools demonstrated an inspiring commitment to recovery.

The Teachers’ Association had declared a strike, but schools in the endangered south were exempted, allowing Sderot schools to open on time.

AMIT Director General Amnon Eldar pledged to spend one day each week in Sderot, emphasizing the need for support during this critical recovery phase. His commitment reflects a broader dedication to fostering educational resilience within the community.

Visiting AMIT Makif Sderot High School, the new municipality building opened just before the previous school year, one can’t help but notice the modern design that blends functionality with hope.

The facility was constructed with safety in mind, featuring reinforced structures to protect against potential attacks.

Yet, within its impressive architecture lies a stark reminder of the past—a wall commemorating the fallen citizens and officers who lost their lives during the October attack.

Principal Edi Dagan has been at the helm of this transformation, overseeing not only the construction but also navigating the complexities of managing a school during a pandemic and subsequent crisis.

He expressed optimism about the school’s future, noting an increase of over 150 students enrolling in high school, signaling a strong desire among families to return to Sderot and prioritize education.

Sderot’s unique demographic makeup plays a crucial role in shaping its educational environment. With a significant population of traditional Sephardi and Mizrahi families, the schools reflect a diverse cultural tapestry that informs daily life.

As Principal Dagan noted, building bridges within Israeli society is vital, particularly in the current climate of conflict.

One of the innovative programs spearheaded by AMIT is Tatzam, an initiative designed to address the deep emotional needs of students, teachers, and principals.

Rooted in self-determination theory, Tatzam emphasizes autonomy, competence, and relatedness, recognizing the importance of emotional wellness in education.

The program provides personalized mentoring for students, creating a safe space for self-expression and personal development.

At the Kiryat Hemed AMIT school complex, experienced professionals lead Tatzam meetings with structured, goal-oriented activities that foster emotional resilience.

The program, which boasts a remarkable mentor-to-student ratio of 1:15, aims to cultivate a sense of belonging and emotional intelligence among participants.

Students like Shirel and Orel have found solace in the Tatzam program. Shirel remarked that the program helped her “go forward,” while Orel expressed initial skepticism but ultimately embraced the experience, highlighting the supportive atmosphere among peers.

Both students noted that Tatzam not only alleviated stress but also enhanced their overall academic performance. The focus on wellness and emotional resilience is echoed by educational counselor Vered Cohen, who serves as Tatzam coordinator.

She emphasizes that prioritizing students’ well-being is crucial for achieving excellence across all areas of education. “Wellness is the key to excellence,” she stated, reflecting a shift in educational priorities within Sderot’s schools.

To further support students, all schools in Sderot will be equipped with treatment centers staffed by counselors to facilitate group therapy. With plans for 500 therapy teams across schools, the aim is to provide comprehensive support to address the community’s ongoing trauma.

Rabbi Ari Katz, PR director for The Max and Ruth Schwartz Sderot Hesder Institutions, encapsulated the community’s spirit: “The fact that schools are opening and we once again hear the voices of children, that in itself is the sign that we have essentially won.”

His enthusiasm reflects a shared determination among Sderot’s residents to rebuild and strengthen their community. As the new school year unfolds, Sderot’s educators, students, and families remain resilient in the face of adversity.

The commitment to education, emotional well-being, and community solidarity stands as a testament to the strength of a city that continues to thrive despite its challenges.

Through innovative programs like Tatzam and the unwavering support of local leaders, Sderot’s schools are not just places of learning; they are havens of hope, healing, and renewal.