Senior Citizens Return to School in Haifa Program

The "Veterans' Class" initiative has returned to high schools in Tirat Carmel for the new school year, with 122 senior citizens re-enrolling as students. This program, launched last year as part of a national effort, is spearheaded by the Welfare and Social Services Department of the Tirat Carmel Municipality, in collaboration with the Ministry for Social Equality, the Education Department, and local high schools: Drora Shapman, Drora for Arts and Sciences, and Drora Ariel.

Through the program, elderly participants attend various classes and subjects, integrate into school life, and foster intergenerational connections with students. Beyond academics, they share their extensive knowledge, experience, and life wisdom with the younger generation, becoming active and valuable members of the school community.

Eitanah Shar Shalom, Director of the Welfare and Social Services Department, stated, "The Veterans' Class is much more than returning to the classroom. It embodies a community philosophy that recognizes senior citizens' knowledge, experience, and influence as assets to the entire city. The interaction with the younger generation strengthens belonging, creates meaningful intergenerational bonds, and reminds us that learning, giving, and impact are not age-dependent."

Magi David, Director of the Community Resources Unit within the Welfare and Social Services Department, added, "The Veterans' Class is far beyond an educational framework. It creates a genuine meeting between generations, allowing senior citizens to continue learning, developing, and staying involved, while simultaneously offering students the chance to be exposed to the knowledge, experience, and life stories they bring."