Netanyahu and Herzog Launch New School Year With First Graders

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu officially opened the 2027 school year at the "Ben Zion Netanyahu" school in Ramla, joining first-grade students and wishing all of Israel's students a successful and fruitful year. He also expressed deep appreciation for the teaching staff.

President Isaac Herzog and his wife Michal marked the occasion at the "Gvanim" elementary school in the Mevo'ot HaHermon Regional Council. They participated in the first-grade students' initial lesson, discussing their summer break experiences and attending a festive school ceremony. During their visit, the President and his wife, along with students and staff, released red balloons, praying for the swift return of Haimnot Kasao.

In his remarks, President Herzog acknowledged the difficult year the students had endured, referencing sirens, shelters, and wartime conditions, and expressed hope for a return to routine for all residents of northern Israel. He highlighted the historical significance of the students returning to school after such a challenging period. Herzog also spoke about the noble profession of teaching, stating his intention to become a teacher nationwide after his presidential term concludes.

He further expressed hope for peace in the region, addressing children in Lebanon and emphasizing the need for everyone to work towards peace and the removal of Hezbollah from the border. The President also called for mutual respect among all citizens during the election period, stressing the importance of a shared future for all Israelis, especially the younger generation.

Nationwide, approximately 2.611 million students began the school year across 27,757 educational institutions. Around 180,000 of these students are entering first grade. The Ministry of Education employs approximately 228,000 teachers, 27,400 kindergarten teachers, and 6,000 principals.