This year, Heschel’s annual Shabbaton was in November instead of January, prompting months of student discussion over its unusual timing. During the weeks leading up to the Shabbaton, older grades had mixed opinions. 

Prior to the Shabbaton, sophomore Charlotte Rose said, “I think having it in November is a good way to encourage bonding earlier on in the year, which sets everyone up to have a better year overall.”

Junior Zachary Altman agreed, saying, “I think the change will be good for the freshmen. But I do wish it were still in January, since it’s a nice way to break up the semesters and relax.”

Unlike Altman who thought the early Shabbaton would help freshmen bond sooner but hinder the experiences of the other grades, junior Farrah Slonim said, “The Shabbaton is a bonding experience so I like that we’re having it earlier in the year. But having it earlier might also make it harder for freshmen who are new to the school and still making friends.”

Senior Olivia Levine said the change is “mean to seniors,” since college application deadlines fall around the time of the Shabbaton. Many believed this would result in unnecessary stress, causing some seniors to be unable to attend their very last Shabbaton. 

Although the freshmen had yet to experience a Shabbaton, students expressed their excitement.

Freshman Hannah Schwartz said, “I think it’s good that the Shabbaton is sooner because it sets the tone for the year.” 

After the Shabbaton, while students generally agreed that January remains the ideal time, the consensus seems to be that the Shabbaton is always fun, no matter the time of year.  

Junior Lev Dubler-Furman said, “I low key did not realize it was at a different time. I might just be an idiot but yeah I did not realize.” 

Junior Ellie Engel said, “I think that its previous date was a perfect marker of the end of our first semester, as well as serving as something exciting to look forward to. This change definitely takes away from those aspects.” Engel continued, “ I had a great time this year, and I think what’s most important is being together as a community – regardless of timing!!” 

Senior Yhonatan Yehudai said, “Since the Shabbaton is usually a grade bonding experience for seniors near the end of our time together, I was a little worried we’d lose that sentiment because it was so early in the year. I was pleasantly surprised that it was still a very fun and sentimental experience despite it being in November.”