As an important component of the Akiva experience, we view our connection with Israel as an integral part of our program. In place of actually taking our students to Israel, we do the next best thing: We bring the flavor of Israel to Akiva.

In Israel, all 18-year-olds must serve their country in some capacity. Most do army service, but there are those who choose other ways of serving Israel and the Jewish people. This is called the Sheirut Le’umi (National Service) program, which connects young women to Diaspora communities. These Bnot Sheirut work in those communities where they are assigned, build greater awareness of our ancestral homeland and provide other services within the host school.

Akiva brings two young women each year as part of the Sheirut Le’umi program to work in our school and provide us with a taste of Israel.

The Sheirut girls provide tutoring services within the school, informal education on Israel and Chagim and work for Bnei Akiva. Their presence in the school provides an authentic Israeli flavor to every event as well as everyday schedules.