A festive Mesibat Siyum celebration was held for the students of the “Chaya Mushka” School, the leading educational institution of the Jewish community of Dnipro, who are participants in the “Bnot Melech” program — an event marking the end of the academic year.
In Jewish tradition, both the beginning and the completion of a significant process — such as studying a tractate, a major theme, or a long-term course — are celebrated. This custom is especially meaningful when it comes to education and upbringing, which is why final events like Mesibat Siyum are an important component of the educational process.
Together with their teachers, the “Bnot Melech” participants (5th–6th grade students) who completed a Bat Mitzvah preparation course, gathered for a celebration at the Menorah Center. Each girl shared how she has changed over the past year, what her most meaningful experience was, and offered wishes to her friends.
The program featured joyful games, dancing, and creative activities, but a special highlight was a symbolic game suggested by teacher Miriam Tereshkevich involving shoes. Each girl was invited to choose a pair of shoes that symbolized her emotional state a year ago when she began the program, and another pair that reflects how she feels now. This psychological and motivational exercise inspired the girls and brought many positive emotions. Naturally, a festive meal with fruit and sweet treats was also an essential part of the Siyum.
“Together with my colleague Sheina Smilyanska, we tried to create a bright and memorable event for our girls,” said teacher Miriam Tereshkevich. “This year was challenging — both outwardly and inwardly — but thanks to the Jewish community of Dnipro, we’ve all grown and improved, and now, as we look back, we can sincerely congratulate each other.”
