Celebrating the Class of 2026!

The PJA community gathered to celebrate the Class of 2026 at our 8th Grade Graduation. Surrounded by family, friends, teachers, and community members, our graduates reflected on their years at PJA and prepared to embark on exciting new journeys.

Principal Merrill Hendin and Executive Director Steve Albert welcomed graduates and their families with words of encouragement that reflected the PJA middot and the values that have guided these students throughout their years at school. They reminded students that respect, curiosity, gratitude, responsibility, and community are not simply lessons learned in the classroom, but qualities they will carry with them wherever they go.

One of the most beloved and distinctive parts of the PJA graduation ceremony is the graduate presentations. Every student—either independently or with a friend—creates a unique presentation reflecting on their time at PJA. These presentations offer a wonderful glimpse into the experiences that shape a PJA education.

The graduates shared memories of deep friendships, meaningful learning, supportive teachers, and moments of discovery both inside and outside the classroom. They spoke about class trips, favorite projects, and the many ways they grew during their years at PJA. Some presentations were funny, some heartfelt, and many were both, providing a window into the unique personalities and experiences of the students who make up the Class of 2026.

The students who stood before us as graduates were once kindergarteners learning their Aleph-Bet, first graders celebrating their siddur ceremony, and middle school students navigating new challenges and opportunities. Their presentations illustrated how a PJA education unfolds over time, helping students develop confidence, resilience, strong friendships, and a lifelong love of learning.

The ceremony concluded with one of PJA's most meaningful traditions. Faculty members gathered around the graduates and held a tallit above their heads while reciting the Shehecheyanu prayer, offering blessings and gratitude for reaching this moment. The scene echoes the blessing our students receive as first graders at their siddur ceremony, creating a powerful connection between the beginning and culmination of their PJA journey. 

We are deeply grateful to all of the families of the Class of 2026 for their support, partnership, and dedication to PJA throughout the years. Their commitment has helped shape not only their own children's experiences, but also the strength of our entire community.

This year, several families are closing particularly long and meaningful chapters at PJA. We extend special appreciation to the Cohen/Schroeder, Mandelsberg, Peleg, Symms/Romain, and Zeitzer families. Together, these families have contributed decades of volunteerism, partnership, friendship, and community building that have enriched our school in countless ways.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2026, we also look forward with excitement to all that lies ahead. We know these graduates will continue to learn, lead, explore, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. While we will miss seeing them in our hallways, we are proud to send them forward carrying the values, relationships, and memories that have defined their years at PJA.

Mazal tov, Class of 2026