On October 7th, people around the world witnessed Hamas launching an attack on Israel, leading to immediate widespread social media discussions on the unfolding horrors. Later that same day, the Israeli government declared a state of war.

Throughout that weekend, Jews worldwide grappled with the situation. Many have family and friends in Israel, and some had personal connections to individuals who had been kidnapped or killed in these attacks. Speaking from my point of view, I have an extensive amount of family and friends in Israel. I knew someone who was kidnapped, and those days hit me hard.

Naturally, I assumed that on Tuesday in school, the administration would say something or send out an email. However, when I got to school the next day, the announcements consisted of the Pledge of Allegiance, sports updates, and club announcements as if it were any other day. The social studies department was instructed to inform their students of the situation. However, the discussion focussed primarily on the politics and background of the war. Not a single teacher reached out to the students, saying, “We are sorry that you have to go through this,” or “You have our support during this dark time.” 

I got home that night and found out that parents had been emailed, saying that students can reach out for support. Yet, the students they were trying to help heard nothing of the sort. I was disgusted that, due to the controversy surrounding the situation, the administration seemed to overlook the fact that students were experiencing significant distress and fear for their loved ones.

What I think schools all around the country and world should be doing, at the least, is reaching out to students, whether it be through email, an announcement, or a teacher/counselor checking in. Nevertheless, many schools are not doing this. If you are in a district that has neglected to support its students in these dark times, you can take a stand. Sending an email to your administrators or teachers informing them of how you have been affected by the situation and what you would like them to change could make a huge difference. Even talking to a school counselor or psychologist about the toll that the war has taken on your mental health can help the school recognize the gravity of this event. 

These seemingly small actions can completely alter your district's response. Even if you are not getting the help you want or require from your teachers or school, I would like to personally offer my support. I hope for the safety of your loved ones in Israel and that this horrific time deescalates soon. You are not alone.

עם ישׂראל חי