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A Cohort for High School Students
Exploring Israel and identity through multiple perspectives while building confidence for conversation.
Beyond the Headlines is a six-month cohort for Jewish high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Students deepen their understanding of Israel through history, multiple perspectives, current events, and critical thinking. The experience is interactive and built around group discussion, peer learning, guest speakers, and opportunities to explore complex topics and build confidence navigating conversations about Israel.
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Applications opening soon.
Application deadline: November 8
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Want to know more before you apply? Join us for a virtual info session on November 1 at 6pm. Open to students and parents.
You'll Learn to...
EXPLORE
Israel, identity,
and your connection to both
LISTEN
To multiple perspectives and experiences
UNDERSTAND
The history and complexity behind today’s issues
QUESTION
Ask thoughtful questions and think critically
SPEAK
Find your voice and share your perspective with confidence
Program Experience
Beyond the Headline sessions will feel participatory rather than teacher-to-student. Students will learn with and from one another and gradually take more ownership of the learning. The program will also feature guest speakers and a participant stipend will be provided.
Together, we will focus on:
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Interactive learning
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Group discussions
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Peer learning
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Guest speakers
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Current events and media
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Student-led learning
Sessions
This program is made up of six in-person sessions, two hours each. Additional Zoom check-ins will take place throughout the six-month program; dates will be determined together by participants.
Session 1
Israel & Me
Exploring personal knowledge, experiences, perceptions, and connection to Israel.
December 13, 2026
Session 3
How Did We Get Here?
Building historical context for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through multiple narratives and perspectives.
January 31, 2027
Session 5
Taking A Deeper Dive
Working in pairs to research a topic from the cohort and create a 30-minute interactive learning experience.
April 11, 2027
Session 2
Home & Homeland
Exploring the Jewish connection to Israel, Jewish history, and Zionism.
January 10, 2027
Session 4
Israel Today
Exploring current events, media, misinformation, and the complexities of Israel today.
February 21, 2027
Session 6
From Learners to Peer Educators
Students take the lead, facilitating their learning experiences and creating opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and discussion.
April 25, 2027
Considering a Gap Year?
Graduating seniors may also be considered for one of three heavily subsidized six-month Gal.il Mechina gap-year opportunities in Israel.
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​The Mechina has 5 groups throughout the Galilee (including a six-month program for youth from all over the world). There are a total of 300 participants a year and 2,500 alumni.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the program for?
Jewish high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
What is the time commitment?
Six two-hour in-person sessions plus additional Zoom check-ins.
When are the sessions?
11/1 (info session), 12/13, 1/10, 1/31, 2/21, 4/11, 4/25
How are Zoom dates selected?
Together with participants during the program.
Will there be guest speakers?
Yes, guest speakers will be incorporated throughout the program.
What is the Gal.Il Mechina opportunity?
A separate opportunity for eligible graduating seniors to be considered for one of three fully funded six-month gap-year experiences.
Apply Now!
Application deadline: 11/08
Participation is by application only. Each participant will receive a stipend.
The application will take around 15-30 minutes to complete.
