“A great Ruach of celebrating Yiddishkeit and Chassidishkeit in a positive, happy way”: Over 20 bochurim graduated from the Los Angeles Yeshiva, including 13 bochurim with Smicha, and other graduates who received High School diplomas and certificates in Digital Marketing, Computer Coding, Real Estate Development, and more.
Jewish Educational Trade School (JETS), the innovative Los Angeles-based yeshiva that combines Torah learning with real-world skills, celebrated the many accomplishments of its students and graduates and the ordination of 13 Smicha students at its June Graduation.
The ceremony was emceed by HaTamim Yehuda Lapidus and began with introductory remarks by founder and director Rabbi Mayer Schmukler. Rabbi Schmukler congratulated the class of 2024 and all JETS students. He expressed his pride and acknowledged the students’ hard work and determination. Rabbi Schmukler then blessed all the students with abundant success in their future endeavors and wished that they all continue to bring Chassidishe Yiddishe Nachas.
HaTamim Dovber Rabin then read a letter from the Rebbe, followed by Rabbi Zalman Schmukler saying the Rebbe’s Kapital.
HaTamim Isaac Kops shared a powerful story illustrating that faith and following spiritual guidance can shape reality and lead to miraculous outcomes.
Rabbi Mendel Zirkind, who heads the Smicha program, which includes Shluchim and older students, presented the Smicha certificates to the Smicha graduates: Tzvi Glick, Mendel Katz, Isaac Kops, Dovber Rabin, Mendel Rimler, Yosef Rothenberg, Levi Simon, Heshy Dudovitz, Menachem Herrmann, Shmuel Kurinsky, Yitzchak Lisbon, Mendel Schmukler, and Shmuel Steinmetz.
HaTamim Nachum Prager thanked all the Judaic teachers and rabbis, acknowledging their dedication to the growth of each student, and presented a gift to each teacher.
The principal of Judaic studies, Rabbi Mendel Seewald, then handed out awards to exemplary students who excelled in specific areas.
HaTamim Yitzchak Rosenblum shared his experience, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and friendships he built at JETS. He wished everyone success, reminding them that JETS will always be there through the highs and lows.
Rabbi Moshe Bitton and the JETS Students Band treated the audience to a musical performance.
HaTamim Heshy Dudovitz thanked all the secular teachers and instructors, acknowledging their dedication to the growth of each student, and presented a gift to each teacher.
Principal Rabbi Naftali Smith and academic teacher Gavriel Fleiderman awarded high school diplomas to the graduates of our GED program, along with certificates in Computer Coding.
Additionally, this year, students have completed courses in Digital Marketing, Real Estate Management, Accounting & Entrepreneurship, Electrical, Plumbing, Essential Job Skills, and Investments & Mortgage Banking.
Furthermore, five students received certificate awards for completing a year in Muay Thai under the direction of instructor Jon Haim.
HaTamim Levi Simon represented the student body, reflecting on the fantastic experience and growth he and his fellow students had, and he thanked all the staff and Shluchim.
HaShliach Chaim Ber Hirschowitz represented the Shluchim in reflecting on the fantastic Shlichus opportunity they had and on how much they have gained by giving of themselves to assist in the growth of the bochurim.
Rabbi Sufrin shared the profound teaching from Deuteronomy 20:19: “For man is the tree of the field.” He explained that just as trees require care, nourishment, and protection to grow and thrive, so too do we as individuals need to nurture our own growth, resilience, and potential. This analogy serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating our inner and outer lives, fostering personal development, and supporting each other as a community.
Rabbi Mendel Mentz concluded the night with closing remarks, wishing the boys success in their future endeavors.
This past year has seen unprecedented growth at JETS, with many students diligently persevering in their commitment to Torah learning. JETS provides access to its workplace opportunities network upon graduation, connecting graduates with firms to jumpstart their careers.
Learn more about JETS Yeshiva here: JETS Yeshiva
Great job!