Netanyahu Launches School Year in Lod, Citing City's Growth

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu officially opened the 2026-2027 school year in Israel with a visit to Darca High School in Lod on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. The visit highlighted a record number of students in the city and underscored Lod's educational advancements.

During his address to students, educators, and city officials, Netanyahu praised Lod as a symbol of Israel's diverse society and the educational system's progress. He specifically thanked Mayor Yair Rabivo for his leadership in the city's development, stating, "Lod is a city that is growing and is in impressive momentum, and I want to thank the Mayor, Yair Rabivo, who is leading this momentum with dedication and vision." He wished students a successful school year and educators significant thanks for their work.

The Prime Minister's choice to launch the school year in Lod lent the event a national significance, focusing attention on the city's educational sector, which has seen substantial growth and achievement in recent years. Darca High School, where the event was held, is recognized as a leading institution, with its principal, Lital Levi, being named one of Israel's 12 groundbreaking principals set to receive the National Education Award.

Lod is also experiencing demographic growth, with the municipal education system serving a record 25,809 students this year, reflecting the influx of new families and the development of new neighborhoods. Prior to the Prime Minister's arrival, Mayor Rabivo and other city officials inaugurated the school year at the nearby Zevulun HaMer school, greeting first-graders and their parents.

Mayor Rabivo expressed pride in the city's educational achievements and the Prime Minister's visit, calling it a great honor. He emphasized Lod's rapid growth and the parallel development of its education system in terms of student numbers, investment, infrastructure, and accomplishments. He concluded by wishing for a successful, safe, and values-driven school year, hoping for peace, unity, and good news.