Student Life
at heichal HaTorah
Our son actually does love being in school! He comes home from school very happy and frequently has a story about some surprise student life activity that was offered that day. His Rebbeim, and older students, are warm and inspiring role models for him. The Heichal administration and Rav Stechler make the parents and students feel like they’re part of one big family.
PARENT OF A HEICHAL ALUMNUS
Our son actually does love being in school! He comes home from school very happy and frequently has a story about some surprise student life activity that was offered that day. His Rebbeim, and older students, are warm and inspiring role models for him. The Heichal administration and Rav Stechler make the parents and students feel like they’re part of one big family.
PARENT OF A HEICHAL ALUMNUS
The Atmosphere Here in Heichal is Electric!
It’s challenging to put into words, but it’s a world of difference from middle school. Every single one of my students is genuinely eager to be here. Our aim is for you to wake up thrilled about coming to yeshiva every single day. We have several strategies to achieve this goal, and it all starts with caring about your individual interests. Do you love sports or have other hobbies? Wondering which club to join? We offer over 30 clubs each semester, ensuring everyone can get involved.
Every September, we kick off the yeshiva year with an incredible opening day trip. In the past, we’ve gone rafting, kayaking, and had a blast at a thrilling Aqua Park. This year, we ventured to an amazing lake featuring tubing, an aqua park, and even a fun ship! While these trips are a lot of fun, the primary purpose is for you to connect with your new classmates and rebbeim.
To reward your hard work, we organize two recreational trips. After midterms in January, we rent out a massive water park – trust me, it’s a blast! Another exciting outing to look forward to is a ski and snow tubing trip around Rosh Chodesh Adar. You’re going to love it!
“AT HEICHAL, WE BELIEVE THAT LEARNING IS NOT LIMITED TO THE FOUR WALLS OF A CLASSROOM.”
“EVERY ONE OF MY GUYS WANTS TO BE HERE.”
At Heichal, we firmly believe that learning extends beyond the classroom walls. Over the course of their high school journey, our students have the opportunity to embark on educational trips. Each grade goes on outings corresponding to their General Studies subjects, visiting historical places in DC, Philly, and museums in NYC.
Special events are another highlight of the Heichal experience. Our students enjoy inspiring talks by world-renowned rabbanim and evenings with globally famous in-yeshiva musicians. But that’s not all – we love to surprise you with special treats, like breakfasts, ice cream days, and iced coffee to kickstart your day. Sometimes, we even have surprises from our many in-yeshiva programs. In the past, we’ve hosted exciting events such as go-karts that came right to us, along with rock climbing walls, laser tag, ice skating, and even axe throwing. We’ve gone so far as to close down the block around Yeshiva for a thrilling 300-foot zip line! Rest assured, we have plenty more exciting programs planned for the upcoming year.
Another fantastic aspect of student life at Heichal is our Shabbatons, which include yeshiva-wide Shabbatons, grade-specific Shabbatons, and neighborhood Shabbatons. There’s truly nothing quite like a Heichal Shabbaton!
The boys in this Yeshiva are truly outstanding.
Their character, concern for others, and overall decency are exceptional. Our goal is to shape these young men into well-rounded individuals committed to Torah values.
My foremost priority here is to ensure that my students are happy every single day.
Heichal is nothing short of incredible. We have dedicated rebbeim who genuinely care about each student, a world-class faculty, and an administration fully invested in every student’s success. Heichal is genuinely remarkable.
I’m eagerly looking forward to meeting you,
Rav Avi Epstein
Dean of Student Life
Director of Admissions
9th Grade Mashgiach
Rabbi Avi Epstein, commonly known as Rav Av, is a dynamic and dedicated educator renowned for his ability to inspire and empower students to achieve their full potential. With boundless energy and a profound commitment to education, Rav Av has made a significant impact in various educational settings.
Rav Ezra Wisotsky
Student Life Administrator
We are thrilled to welcome Rabbi Ezra Wisotsky to Heichal’s Student Life Department to serve under Rav Epstein. Originating from Passaic, NJ, Rabbi Wisotsky studied at Yeshivas Yishrei Lev and then Yeshivas Ner Yisroel, under the mentorship of Rav Ezra Neuberger and Rav Tzvi Berkowitz. Currently continuing his own learning at Kollel Beis Yisroel in Chestnut Ridge, Rabbi Wisotsky is renowned for his dynamic personality and ability to connect with boys of all ages in the Passaic/Clifton community. As the Head Counselor of Camp Eeshay and founder of Duoz Sports, Rabbi Wisotsky stands out as one of the young leaders in our community, crafting fun and engaging programming for high school boys. He and his wife reside in Monsey, NY, where he will be leading Friday night tischim for our talmidim.
Rav Avi Rosalimsky
Student Life Administrator
Rabbi Avi Rosalimsky received his Semicha from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS), studying primarily under the auspices of Rabbi Zvi Sobolofsky and Rabbi Baruch Simon. In conjunction with his rabbinical training and studies, Rabbi Rosalimsky also received his Masters Degree in Jewish Education and he is currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree in School Administration, both degrees from the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education. Beyond his educational pursuits, Rabbi Rosalimsky has extensive experience working with Jewish Youth, in both formal and informal educational settings. In recent years, he has served as a teacher at Yeshivat Noam in Paramus, NJ, the Director of NCSY Kaylie Impact, the teen program director at Congregation Beth Abraham in Bergenfield, NJ, the Boys Program Director of the My Extended Family branch in Teaneck, NJ, and the founder and commissioner of the Bergenfield Youth Baseball League and the Bergen County Flag Football League. Rabbi Rosalimsky’s students and colleagues describe him as driven, passionate, warm, organized, caring, and someone who will always go above and beyond for them.
Student Life
At Heichal, our talmidim eagerly anticipate each school day because there’s always something big to look forward to.
We take pride in offering a diverse range of captivating activities, clubs, and events throughout the year. To kick off and conclude each school year, our Yeshiva organizes meaningful and enjoyable Shabbos getaways at hotels. Additionally, every 4-6 weeks, our students partake in thrilling activities right on our campus, such as exhilarating ziplining and axe-throwing adventures, as well as recreational outings to exciting places like Top Golf and picturesque hiking trails.
One of the most highly anticipated events is our annual visits from some of the best Jewish singers in the community, who grace our Yeshiva with heartfelt kumzitz sessions and spirited dance performances that ignite the Heichal spirit. Throughout the year, we enthusiastically commemorate various events such as the Selichos Kumzitz, Tehillim-a-thon, Simchas Bais HaShoeva, and Purim & Chanukah Chagigah.
A defining aspect of the Heichal experience is the continuous inspiration we receive from esteemed leaders and influencers within the Jewish nation. These individuals regularly visit us, enriching the experience of our Heichal journey. Join us, and you’ll always have something exciting on the horizon, with a variety of the best Jewish singers inspiring us throughout the year!
Shabbatonim
Shabbatonim are exceptional opportunities for talmidim to bond with friends and rebbeim, forming an essential part of the Heichal experience. Multiple times a year, we come together in Monsey, Passaic, or Bergenfield for an “In Shabbos.” These weekends are filled with meaningful davening, communal meals, stimulating discussions, and spirited sedarim, fostering an atmosphere of simchaand spiritual aliyah that extends beyond the yeshiva walls.
Additionally, twice annually, the entire yeshiva embarks on a journey to a special destination for a Shabbos of both fun and inspiration. Whether it’s a serene mountain camp or a resort, the change of scenery and fresh mountain air inspire our talmidim to forge a deeper connection with Hashem.
Our Shabbatonim are marked by spirited singing and dancing, a Leil Shabbos Tisch, delectable seudos, Torah insights and motivation from the Rosh Yeshiva, rebbeim, and select talmidim, a festive Motzei Shabbos program, scenic hikes, and a wide array of sports and tournaments. Many of our rebbeim reside in close proximity to our talmidim and extend warm invitations for Shabbos and Yom Tov meals, further nurturing the invaluable rebbe-talmid bond.
Clubs
At Heichal, we understand the importance of nurturing not only academic growth but also the development of well-rounded individuals. That’s why we provide our talmidim with ample opportunities to explore and cultivate their interests beyond the classroom.
Extracurricular Exploration:
Our students enjoy dedicated time for extracurricular activities, with two prime slots in their daily schedules. The first is during the recreational afternoon break from 2:20 PM to 3:10 PM, and the second occurs during dinner breaks on Mondays and Thursdays. These blocks of time offer students the freedom to pursue their passions, learn new skills, and engage in meaningful activities that enrich their high school experience and extend far beyond graduation.
Diverse Club Offerings:
Heichal Yeshiva boasts a diverse range of clubs and organizations designed to cater to a wide spectrum of interests. Whether your son is an aspiring athlete, tech enthusiast, budding artist, or a competitive strategist, we have something for everyone. Here are just a few of the exciting club categories we offer:
Sports Clubs:
For those with a penchant for physical activity, we offer clubs like Basketball Intramurals, Floor Hockey Intramurals, Bowling Club, Heichal Run Club, and even Skiing to keep our students active and engaged.
Life Skills and Career Clubs:
Preparing for the future is crucial, and our Life Skills and Career Clubs help students acquire practical knowledge. We offer programs such as Drivers Education, First Aid, Graphic Design, and Lifeguarding.
Educational Clubs:
Intellectual curiosity is encouraged and cultivated in clubs like Chidon HaTanach, Coding, Engineering, and Newspaper, which allow students to explore diverse fields of study and expand their horizons.
Competition & Games Clubs:
Fostering strategic thinking and friendly competition, our clubs include Chess, Debate, and Torah Bowl, where students can challenge themselves and each other in an intellectually stimulating environment.
We believe in empowering our students to explore their passions, develop life skills, and build lasting friendships through extracurricular activities. Our array of clubs and organizations ensures that every talmid can find a community and a pursuit that resonates with their interests and aspirations. It’s all part of our commitment to providing a comprehensive and enriching high school experience.
Sports
EXERCISE
HEICHAL HORNETS
JV and Varsity Basketball Teams
JV and Varsity Softball Teams
INTRAMURALS
HEICHAL SPORTS CLUB
Volleyball
Track
Fitness
Bowling
Golf
Skiing
On May 23rd, an unforgettable moment unfolded as Sachi Zauderer sunk a double-clutch three-pointer, clinching a sensational victory for Heichal HaTorah. This remarkable shot not only secured the win but also earned a coveted spot in @SportsCenter’s top 10 plays. It was a monumental championship win for our JV team, marking back-to-back years of triumph.
SPORTS UPDATE
Physical activity is an essential part of our daily schedule, with an hour allocated to exercise each day. Our talmidim have a range of options to choose from, including basketball, football, and hockey, in our regulation-size gym. They can also engage in weight and training in our well-equipped fitness gym, all while enjoying the camaraderie of our sports-loving community.
Our competitive all-star team, the Heichal Hornets, participates in the Young Israel Basketball League. Both our JV and Varsity basketball teams, the Heichal Hornets, are proud members of this league. Notably, our JV team clinched a thrilling league championship victory last season. These talented teams are under the expert guidance of our amazing professional coaches, who bring a wealth of experience to our athletes.
In addition to basketball, Heichal Hornets softball teams actively participate in the Yeshiva Spring League.
For those who prefer intramural sports, we host basketball and hockey intramurals for all grades throughout the year. Furthermore, we’ve partnered with Zion Sports Academy, allowing our talmidim to join a professional AAU travel basketball team without conflicting with their yeshiva schedule.
At Heichal, we take our tefilos very seriously, and each boy receives their own Tehillim along with a pre-assigned perek . One of the highlights of our year is the annual Tehillim-a-thon event. During this special occasion, we come together as a yeshiva to recite and sing all of Tehillim within minutes. This remarkable event culminates yearly during the Aseres Yemei Teshuva and serves as a powerful expression of our commitment to prayer and unity within our yeshiva community. Eitan Katz leads the event with inspirational niggunim based on Tehillim.
Educational Trips
At Heichal, we firmly believe that learning should not be limited to a classroom setting. Last year, each grade embarked on its own educational journey, tailored to the material they were studying in their General Studies curriculum.
Our freshmen were absolutely fascinated during their visit to the USS New Jersey battleship. Sophomores delved into history during a full-day trip to Philadelphia, where they toured Liberty Hall and other historical landmarks. Juniors embarked on an action-packed overnight adventure in the Washington, D.C. area, immersing themselves in the Spy Museum, Holocaust Museum, Ford’s Theater, and the Air and Space Museum. They also enjoyed a thrilling Segway tour of the monuments, adding an extra layer of excitement to their educational journey.
Recreational trips
As part of our goal of developing a well-rounded student, we embark on a number of outings throughout the year, both for the Yeshiva as a whole and for individual grades as well. These trips allow students and their rebbeim the opportunity to relax outside the four walls of the Yeshiva, and help foster camaraderie among old and new friends.
Last year, our annual “opening-of-the-year” trip took place at Greenwood Lake Marina. The boys enjoyed the aqua park, fun ship, tubing, and a huge BBQ with baseball at a local park. In the winter months, Heichal adds excitement to the season by renting an indoor water park and embarking on thrilling ski trips. Additionally, we visited the American Dream water park last year for an unforgettable experience.
Special Days
In addition to the excellent education, there have been so many opportunities for fun! In just two months, he’s been to a bowling outing, a Friday night oneg, a Simchas Bais HaShoeivah, a Shabbaton, a hike and a barbecue. Looking forward to the years ahead!
HEICHAL PARENT
Heichal Chessed Crew
Being a rebbe in Heichal is a personally enriching experience. The warmth and friendship in the hallsof the yeshiva coupled with the bochurim’s deep bikush (desire) for aliyah is inspiring and tremendously motivating.
DANI STAUM, HEICHAL REBBESingers
I am always amazed by the bein adam l’chaveiro at Heichal. The guys are consistently thoughtful and caring when they interact with each other which creates a great environment where everyone is comfortable being themselves. It definitely makes my job as the Guidance Director a lot easier!
ARIEL KLEINDIRECTOR OF GUIDANCE
Gedolei Yisroel
Our son Aryeh is a Heichal 10th grader. From the moment in 8th grade when he received his acceptance letter until today, Rabbi Stechler and the Heichal administration have been a constant source of motivating and inspiring programming, all designed to discover and develop the growth potential in the boys as they forge their unique paths in Limud Torah and Avodas Hashem.
IRA AND TOVA SHULMANHEICHAL PARENTS