i2i - I’m Going to Israel

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Immersion in Israel education and travel program for 8th graders! 
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“i2i - I’m going to Israel” - is a new project designed especially for 8th graders

Brought to you by Gratz Jewish Community High School and
Sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia

Experiential learning has the most impact!  i2i brings Israel to life by engaging students with interesting sessions paired with overnights culminating in a trip to Israel after the first year.

Participants begin forming their ties to one another and to Israel in spring of 2013 and strengthen their commitments through the ten-day tour.  The land, people, history, food language, and culture jumps out of the classroom and into participants’ souls.

Upon return, the adventurers have insight into their own connection to Israel and Judaism. Their learning continues in 9th grade with classroom meetings and two overnight experiences with a focus on leadership.

i2i logo

Sample Highlights of  i2i   

  • Connections with local teens in an interactive exciting environment
  • Skills in leadership development before and after the trip
  • Builds community locally and globally

While in Israel, participants experience:

  • Shabbat in Jerusalem, seeing the Kotel and Jerusalem’s Old City
  • Climbing Masada and swimming in the Dead Sea
  • Digging in an archeological site and meeting Bedouins in a tent experience
  • Exploring Tel Aviv
  • Joint activities with Israeli youth
  • Using Hebrew in daily life

JCHS contracts with a highly regarded Israeli travel company that is experienced with teens and provides security throughout the trip.  Staff include: a certified experienced bi-lingual tour guide, an armed medical/security professional and i2i staff.

First Year 8th grade:

4 – 5 Monthly educational experiences
Overnight programs with participants and staff
Group building activities and games
Israel Education
Hebrew Role-plays
Meet with a representative from the Israeli consulate

Summer 2013: A 10 day amazing trip to Israel

Second Year 9th grade:

4 - 5 Monthly educational experiences
Overnight programs with trip friends
Creating a memory book
Leadership Development: Young Ambassadors program 
Hebrew Language immersion
Learning presentation skills
Coaching for “bringing Israel back” as a leader in your community
Parents will be invited to some of the programs after the Israel trip 


There is a selection process for participants.  All applicants must complete an application available here. For further information call Michael Blum, Program Coordinator at 215.635.7300 x 119 or i2i@gratz.edu

Additional Information:

Gratz College: Education Grounded in Jewish Values

Learn more about how Gratz College engages students in active study for personal and professional enrichment. Visit Gratz College

For future Gratz students, I say to stick with the program. You will realize how fulfilling it is.”

Emily Benoff
2012