First Grade

Daniel gave up a comfortable career in high-tech, Rotem continues the path of her late father, and Paz moved to the Gaza envelope despite her illness. As the school year begins, the new educators explain why they are not willing to give up on the classroom, despite the workload and low pay.

After covering their pregnancies, births, and first photos, it's hard to believe that the next generation of the local scene is already carrying a school bag on their backs. Shir Elmaliach, Eden Ben Zaken, Daniel Greenberg and Eyal Golan, Yarden Harel, and other celebrities found it hard to say goodbye: "Something new is starting for us now."

Ahead of September 1st, an unusual decision was made in the Golani Brigade: to allow commanders to accompany their children to school. "Ella knows that Dad is fighting the bad guys and is very proud," says Lt. Col. A., commander of the 12th Battalion.

Without threats of strikes, with a lot of hope: among the millions returning to school are 180,000 starting first grade. Some will begin in the legendary school of Metula, which stood empty until now. In the Gaza envelope, they are returning to study at home after about 3 years of wandering. The expectation: "That it will be interesting in class and fun at recess."

For thousands of families in Israel, the start of the school year comes again this year in the shadow of prolonged reserve duty. While other parents accompany their children to kindergarten and first grade, there are those who are forced to say goodbye again and head to Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank. For 6.5-year-old Ivri, who will start first grade today, his father will be able to be there...

The new backpack is waiting by the door, but before the child enters school for the first time, parents face a significant shopping list. A backpack, pencil case, notebooks, writing utensils, and textbooks add up to a substantial amount. How much does it really cost to prepare a child for first grade?

The transition from kindergarten to school requires children to adapt to a new framework, rules, and new friends. From a preliminary tour of the school and restrooms, to practicing the safe route and changing sleep schedules - here is how to prepare them for first grade.

Data from the education system ahead of the 2026/27 school year reveals that every seventh student is eligible for special services. Many parents are debating which tests are required before moving to school. Experts map out the existing diagnoses and explain who to contact.

Only 3% of teachers believe children are properly prepared for school, while 48% estimate they arrive insufficiently or not at all prepared. And what is the price parents pay for private lessons? Back to school project.

Everything a child really needs before the first bell – from self-confidence to the school bag, from nutrition to health. Six Clalit Central District experts explain what is important to focus on to start the first school year on the right foot.