Last Bell Celebrated Across Jewish FSU as 2026 Academic Year Comes to a Close
Thousands of Jewish students studying in the Federation of Jewish Communities’ ‘Or Avner’ Jewish Educational Network celebrated the conclusion of the 2026 academic year with festive “Last Bell” ceremonies held across more than ten countries of the former Soviet Union • Read More, Photos
Thousands of Jewish students studying in the Federation of Jewish Communities’ ‘Or Avner’ Jewish Educational Network celebrated the conclusion of the 2026 academic year with festive “Last Bell” ceremonies held across more than ten countries of the former Soviet Union. The traditional events, held during the end of May and throughout June, marked both a farewell to graduating students and the beginning of the summer season, including the opening of the broad FJC JUniversal ‘Gan Israel’ summer camp network.
Established by FJC President Mr. Lev Leviev in memory of his father OBM, the ‘Or Avner’ network includes hundreds of Jewish educational institutions serving children and youth from a wide range of backgrounds and socio-economic circumstances. Its framework spans daycare centers, kindergartens, elementary and high schools, and higher education institutions, while working in parallel with FJC’s informal educational programs, including SmartJ and JFuture Sunday and afternoon Hebrew Schools, as well as enrichment and extracurricular initiatives throughout the region.
At each institution, the Last Bell ceremonies brought together students, parents, educators, community members, the city’s Chief Rabbi and Chabad Shluchim, and local dignitaries. Students performed for the guests, received diplomas and recognition for their accomplishments, and enjoyed celebratory programs and activities prepared especially for the occasion.
Over the years, the ‘Or Avner’ Jewish Educational Network has built a reputation for excellence in both Jewish and general studies, supporting the growth of a new generation of Jewish students across the FSU. With dedicated educators, strong communal involvement, and a commitment to each child’s personal development, the network continues to provide students with knowledge, skills, and a meaningful connection to their Jewish heritage.
“We look with Jewish pride at our thousands of students and tens of thousands of alumni over the years, and we know that the road ahead is still long,” said Mrs. Chana Rinkov, Director of the ‘Or Avner’ Jewish Education Network. “Our teaching teams work tirelessly to improve, refine, and bring the level of education we provide to new heights, while creating among our students a deep, value-based connection to their people, heritage, and Jewish roots. At the same time, we are introducing innovative and unique technological tools into the network’s institutions, with dedication, love, and care for the future of every student.”
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