For the past eight years, Kavod Charter School has welcomed young Israeli ambassadors through the Shinshinim program, a competitive, service-based internship whose name is a Hebrew abbreviation for “year of service.” Each year, these dedicated participants bring the vibrant Israeli culture and Hebrew language directly into our classrooms and community, enriching the Kavod experience for every explorer.
Shinshinim interns volunteer at Kavod during the school year, and continue their service in the summer around San Diego. Acceptance into the Shinshinim program grants a 1 year deferment of mandatory service in the Israel Defense Forces, meaning that only the best and brightest are chosen for the program.
Meet our four 2025-26 Shinshinim interns:
Ori Bar
Ori is 19 years old and from Moshav Kochav Michael. In high school, she majored in Biology and Media Studies, which covered television, advertising, radio communication, and media law – and she volunteered with Hatnua Hachadasha as a Madricha for 4th and 6th grade groups.
At Kavod, Ori’s work centers on Hebrew education. She teaches Hebrew through art with TK and 3rd grade classes, and supports teachers in 2nd, 4th, and 5th grade classrooms. With the 2nd and 4th graders, she occasionally works with Hebrew-speaking students in small groups to strengthen their Hebrew skills.
Last semester, Ori led two after-school enrichment clubs: an Israeli Story Club for TK and Kindergarten, and an Art Club for 2nd and 3rd grade, where students explored the work of Israeli artists for inspiration.
Ori was drawn to the Shin-Shinim Program because it combines two things she loves – working with children and teaching about Israel, while also offering the unique experience of living abroad as an Israeli representative. “The Jewish and Israeli community here is amazing,” she shares, “and through this program I have the opportunity to connect with people and make a meaningful impact outside of Israel.”
She is eager to share the different aspects of Israel with the Kavod students including Israel’s history, culture, and the diversity of people and communities that live there – including beloved traditions like Darom Adom. Ori loves speaking Hebrew with her students and is committed to making that experience both positive and meaningful.
Although Ori hasn’t been at Kavod for very long, she’s already found joy building personal connections with the students, and in seeing them feel comfortable enough to try speaking Hebrew with her. “Kavod is a special school because it creates a very strong sense of community,” she reflects. “The students, teachers, and staff truly care about each other, and you can feel that supportive environment throughout the school. What also sets Kavod apart is the opportunity for students to learn Hebrew and be exposed to Israeli culture as part of their daily learning. It makes the school environment unique and gives students a chance to experience something different and meaningful while still receiving a strong education.”
Looking ahead, Ori hopes to continue building meaningful connections with students, supporting their learning, and creating fun and engaging experiences together. She is also excited to keep exploring San Diego and make the most of her time contributing to the Kavod community.
Libi
Libi is 18 years old from Shoham, a small town near Ben Gurion airport in Israel. In high school, Libi studied computer science and physics. After school, Libi became a tzofim (Israeli scouts) counselor for kids with special needs, participated in the Diller Teen Fellows leadership program, and volunteered as a first aid responder on ambulances.
In their free time, Libi enjoys reading, writing, baking, and running.
At Kavod, Libi works with TK and Kindergarten students in their daily Hebrew lessons, and teaches Hebrew Art and Hebrew to 1st grade. Last semester, Libi led a science club; this semester she’s leading the photography club, and Israel’s Art Club alongside Ori.
Libi has a deep love for Israel and is excited to share that passion with students – from the geography, the history, and natural landscapes to the country’s rich and beautifully diverse cultures and people.
One of Libi’s favorite moments so far has been the Festikavod, where they organized a dance contest with all the Kavod explorers. “The students worked so hard, and it was truly amazing to see all their beautiful work come to life,” Libi reflects.
On what makes Kavod special: “At Kavod, kids aren’t only being taught English and Math. Kavod puts a big emphasis on teaching the students derech eretz, values, and Kavod. Also, it is noticeable that Kavod teachers are always looking for engaging and interesting ways to teach from a place of sharing their love for the subject. The kids here want to learn and enjoy learning.”
What is Libi looking forward to during her time in San Diego? “The Israel Independence Day Celebration event!.
Alon Sachs
Alon is 18 from Kadima, and attended Thelma Yellin High School for the Arts in Tel Aviv, where he studied Theater and Musical Theater. He was also an active member of the Israeli Scouts, volunteering in community institutions and helping people in need. In his free time, Alon loves discovering new music, tackling escape rooms, and exploring theater and the arts.
At Kavod, Alon works primarily with 1st and 4th graders, leading small-group Hebrew learning sessions (ELD). He also runs an after-school Hip Hop Club for 2nd through 4th graders.
Alon came to the Shin-Shinim Program seeking a meaningful and distinctive year — one where he could push back against antisemitism while sharing his personal experiences of Israel: its diversity, its culture, and the remarkable people who make it unique.
Like Libi, one of Alon’s standout moments so far has been the Festikavod. In the months leading up to the event, they started rehearsing and preparing; making decorations and dances. The whole experience, in Alon’s own words, was simply “AMAZING!”
When asked what makes Kavod such a special place, Alon didn’t hesitate: “Because of its diversity and the way it makes everyone feel safe being who they are.”
Adva
Adva is 19 and from Hod HaSharon. In high school, she studied Theater and Literature, played volleyball and volunteered with a youth movement called HaNoar HaOved V’hloemed. She is also preparing for combat training ahead of her military service.
At Kavod, Adva works with 2nd through 5th grade Explorers and leads both the Israeli Art Club and the Israeli Games Club. Adva’s path to the Shin-Shinim Program was a personal one, two of her siblings had done it before her. “I wanted to do one year of service for my country,” she shares, carrying on what has become a family tradition.
She is excited to bring Israeli energy and culture to Kavod’s students, and one of her favorite highlights so far has been the FestiKavod, the singing and dance competition she helped put on with her students.
While in San Diego, Adva is looking forward to going to Camp Mountain Chai this summer and spending some time at La Jolla beach!
Interested in hosting a Shinshinim for 3-4 months? The Shinshinim are extremely independent, having their own phone, car, doing their own laundry and supporting themselves. Opening your home to a Shinshinim intern gives your family the chance to grow their perspective and learn about the world. If you are a Kavod family interested in hosting for a few months, please email HaMorah Ronit at Ronit@kavodcharter.org
Is your child ready to join us at Kavod Charter School? We welcome ambitious TK-8th graders to learn modern Hebrew and become global citizens in our tuition-free public school. Enrolling now for 2026-27!
About Kavod
Kavod is a tuition-free public charter school in San Diego committed to growing the next generation of bilingual, globally aware leaders who will make the world a more respectful place. We offer modern Hebrew and Spanish to diverse TK-8th graders alongside a rigorous curriculum, the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, and enriching electives. As a non-religious, dual language elementary and middle school, we are consistently ranked as a top 5% charter school in California and the nation. Kavod means respect – we believe respect makes a world of difference. Enroll with Kavod today!
