Bnei Brak School Damaged by Iranian Missile Reopens After Reconstruction

A year and two months after an Iranian missile directly struck the "Gishrim" school in Bnei Brak, part of the "Ohel Sarah" educational network, the students have returned to the reconstructed building to begin the new school year. The strike, which occurred during wartime, caused severe destruction, damaging classrooms, demolishing infrastructure, and destroying educational equipment.

The reopening ceremony was attended by city rabbis, municipal leadership including Mayor Chanoch Zeibert, Knesset members, public figures, school staff, and students. The event marked a significant moment of "closing the circle" for the students who had been studying in temporary facilities.

Rabbi Yitzhak Ayzik Landau of Bnei Brak emphasized the importance of rebuilding from destruction, stating, "One must experience the establishment from the ruin." The school's administration, including director Malka Weinberg, expressed their commitment to overcoming the damage, with Weinberg noting, "We promised ourselves and the students that we would not let destruction and defeat defeat us." The school's principal, Yehudit Strauss, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the return of students to full classrooms as proof of resilience.

A special art installation, created by students using fragments of the shattered glass from the attack, was unveiled. This piece symbolizes the transformation of destruction into hope and new growth. The event also included remarks from various city officials and rabbis who praised the work of "Ohel Sarah" and stressed the importance of special education and support for individuals with special needs.

A student representative shared her emotional journey, thanking the dedicated staff and expressing how the values learned at the school have become an integral part of her, enabling her to grow stronger despite the challenges.