Senior Israel Trip and Poland Trip

The centrality of the Land and State of Israel is a recurring theme at Beth Tfiloh. Yom HaAtzma'ut and Yom Yerushalayim are observed in the fullest sense. Courses and programs are offered every trimester exploring Israeli politics, society, and history. Speakers are frequently invited to give students first-hand updates of events in the Middle East. Israel's successes are collectively celebrated; when tragedy strikes, Beth Tfiloh grieves as one school. Seniors are encouraged to spend a year following graduation in study at one of Israel's universities, yeshivot, or seminaries, and Aliyah is considered an important expression of our religious and national commitment as modern Jews.

The most significant Beth Tfiloh program designed to inspire a lasting commitment to the State of Israel is the Senior Trip to Israel and Poland, the completion of which is necessary for graduation. Students will follow an itinerary specifically created to serve the needs of our seniors. In addition to extensive touring of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, the Negev, and the Galil, students will also benefit from guest speakers, special seminars, evening programs, archaeological digs, and time to visit relatives or to pursue special interests.

Seniors participating in the trip to Israel and Poland are required to conform to all behavioral policies explained in this handbook. Failure to conform to expected standards of behavior will result in consequences ranging from students being denied access to specific parts of the program, students being sent home from the trip at parental expense, or other disciplinary actions at the discretion of the administration.

Seniors who have completed 4 years of High School French at Beth Tfiloh have the possibility of adding on a trip to France prior to the Israel trip. Students who elect to do this will not be eligible for financial aid for the Israel/Poland trip.

Because of the considerable cost of the trip, (projected at $5,500, which must be paid before the students leave on their journey), it is suggested that parents begin to plan early to put money in savings to prepare adequately. B B & T Bank, on Sudbrook Lane, has agreed to open a savings account with no minimum opening deposit, no minimum balance and no service fee for our parents for this trip. Be sure to mention the Beth Tfiloh Israel Trip when you set this up. We recommend you do this as early as Freshman year. Those who cannot pay the full cost may apply for confidential financial assistance by emailing Harriet Rosen at hrosen@btfiloh.org. In addition, the Senior Class also undertakes fundraising efforts of their own. Hopefully, the concern for future classmates expressed by previous graduates and their families will continue to be a tradition at Beth Tfiloh.