PETAH TIKVA, Israel, October 13, 2025 — American high school students studying abroad at Jewish National Fund-USA’s Alexander Muss High School in Israel (Muss) joined thousands of Israelis in a powerful moment of unity and celebration as the remaining hostages were returned.
While en route to Jerusalem to celebrate Simchat Torah, the teens stopped outside Rabin Medical Center in Petah Tikva, where several of the hostages were brought for evaluation, and spontaneously joined Israeli families, dancing and singing in a moving expression of solidarity and joy. The elation intensified as the students witnessed the helicopter transporting released hostage Guy Gilboa-Dalal land on the hospital roof.
Jewish National Fund-USA’s premier college-prep, study in Israel experience, Muss connects American teens to Israel through an immersive curriculum that uses the land as a living classroom. Yet it is moments like these—being present for history in the making—that leave a lasting imprint.
“The students of Muss were not just witnesses to history — they became a part of it,” said Muss President Susan Sacks. “In a moment that united all of Israel in hope, they stood proudly with their Israeli brothers and sisters, showing the true spirit of Zionism in action.
This isn’t the first time Muss students have been on the ground during pivotal moments. When the war began on October 7, 2023, students mobilized immediately, assembling over 1,700 care packages for displaced Israelis and raising more than $145,000 in relief funds to support those impacted by the attacks.
“A core element of Muss is teaching our students that they play an important role in Israel’s story,” said Muss Head of School Dr. Steve Kutno. “They stood with Israelis in times of pain, and now they’re dancing with them in moments of joy. Today is a powerful day for the Jewish people, and I’m proud that our students are experiencing it firsthand as future Jewish leaders.”
For more information about Jewish National Fund-USA’s Alexander Muss High School in Israel, visit amhsi.org.
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About Jewish National Fund-USA
Jewish National Fund-USA builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist engagement. The organization’s circle of impact extends beyond individual projects, generating a ripple effect that drives population growth and economic development in Israel’s north and south. From developing new communities in the Negev and Galilee to advancing environmental sustainability, supporting people with disabilities, preserving heritage sites, and connecting the next generation to Israel, Jewish National Fund-USA’s strategic approach ensures every initiative strengthens the fabric of Israeli society. The organization also operates the fully accredited Alexander Muss High School in Israel, offering an immersive study-abroad experience driven by academic excellence. Learn more at jnf.org.
