On Thursday, May 29th, Yavneh Day School celebrated the graduation of the 8th Grade Class of 2025 with a ceremony inspired by Havdalah—a beautiful and symbolic way to honor the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. Just as Havdalah separates Shabbat from the rest of the week with light, fragrance, and sweetness, Yavneh 8th grade graduation honored the transition to high school with reflection, gratitude, and hope.
The ceremony highlighted the depth of community and values that make Yavneh unique. Dr. Diana Wilmot, President of the Board, shared: “Yavneh Day School is more than just a school—it is a community rooted in tradition and propelled by purpose. And today, as we honor our graduates, we also celebrate what makes this community so special: a shared commitment to nurturing young minds, raising strong Jewish leaders, and preparing our children not just for high school, but for lives of meaning.”
Graduates shared personal reflections that echoed this spirit. Leo beautifully connected the ceremony’s theme, saying, “Graduation is not just about saying goodbye. It’s about carrying forward the light, the sweetness, the memories, and the values that will guide us wherever we go.”
Ella reflected on how Yavneh shaped her: “Yavneh didn’t just prepare me for tests—it prepared me for life. I’ve learned confidence, kindness, and the power of community.”
Dani spoke of the deep friendships and personal growth fostered at Yavneh, saying, “I’ve learned that real friendship is a kind of superpower. Yavneh taught me about courage, community, and how to be my truest self.”
Leeor shared his appreciation for the school that shaped his nine-year journey: “It’s impossible to describe how thankful I am for this amazing community. I feel really confident for the future, and I am excited to start the next part of my journey with amazing memories in my mind and heart that I will never forget.”
Judah reflected, “We’re moving on… ready or not. But I think we’re more ready than we realize and that is because of the foundation we’ve built here at Yavneh: a foundation of being learners, listeners, and leaders.”
Yarden added, “No matter where we go, Yavneh will stay with us—in the stories we tell, in the way we show up in the world.”
The graduates also gifted the school with a class mural, which will join others in the hallway upstairs. Hadas shared, “As a class, we chose to include the phrase ‘Increase joy,’ reflecting how we’ve tried to show up for each other this year.” Ari added, “We hope people see a class full of energy, humor, and heart. This is our way of saying thank you.”
Mona closed the ceremony with a touching quote: “‘How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.’ That something is Yavneh.”
Principal Aviva Greenberg shared: “Class of 2025—look at how far you’ve come! You are ready to take your next steps, equipped with knowledge, experience, and resilience. Embrace the opportunities ahead with open hearts and minds.”
We know this is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to see where your paths will lead. Congratulations to each and every one of you—and to your families and teachers who have supported you along the way!
The Class of 2025 will be attending the following High Schools:
Archbishop Mitty High School
Bellarmine College Preparatory
Branham High School
El Cerrito High School
Jewish Community High School
Mamaroneck High School
Monta Vista High School
Notre Dame High School
Presentation High School
