To mark Lebanon’s Independence Day, the SJS family, students, teachers, and staff, honored the occasion through a variety of meaningful, joyful, and creative activities across all divisions.
Our preschoolers celebrated with laughter, music, and the warm spirit of togetherness. Inspired by Khalil Gibran’s words, “You have your Lebanon, and I have mine, and yet, we are both Lebanon,” the children proudly came together to prepare delicious za’atar manouchés, filling the day with the comforting aromas of home. Their cheerful songs, lively dances, and spirited zajal brought the celebration to life, while the red, white, and green snacks they shared lit up the room with the colors of our beloved flag. It was a joyful, heartwarming day that beautifully reflected how deeply our little ones carry Lebanon in their hearts.
The Lower Elementary students enjoyed a truly memorable Independence Day filled with pride and enthusiasm. Grade 1 students rotated through centers that showcased elements of Lebanese heritage, Grade 2 impressed everyone with a military-style march and patriotic songs, and Grade 3 performed a special play honoring the occasion. Each activity highlighted the children’s curiosity, joy, and genuine appreciation for their country’s traditions. It was a wonderful day that brought everyone together in celebration of our homeland.
The Upper Elementary Division celebrated in a meaningful and inspiring way. Grade 6 students stepped into the shoes of future leaders through the “President for a Day” experience. Twelve candidates campaigned and competed in an atmosphere filled with cheers and patriotic songs, culminating in the election of one student who proudly represented the voice of the grade. Meanwhile, Grade 4 students joined forces to create the longest za’atar sandwich, an impressive symbol of unity, teamwork, and love for Lebanon. The activity brought the entire grade together in an atmosphere of excitement and collaboration. From leadership roles to hands-on teamwork, the students filled the day with energy, hope, and commitment, reminding everyone that they are truly the future of Lebanon. Grade 5 students also presented a patriotic and spiritual performance entitled “Light from Lebanon,” reaffirming their love for their homeland through meaningful expression.
Middle school students marked the occasion through a series of enriching and engaging activities organized by the Social Studies Department, in collaboration with the Arabic and Art Departments. Grade 7 students prepared their own manouché, joined the “Know Your Lebanon” quiz, and took part in “Pin Your Roots,” mapping their family origins across Lebanon. Grade 8 students participated in an exciting escape room challenge that tested teamwork and problem-solving skills, followed by Souk Oukaz, a spirited musical competition. Grade 9 students proudly showcased Lebanon’s cultural heritage through Arabic poetry, traditional dances, and amthāl shaabiyah, then visited the Preschool division to share patriotic songs with younger learners. The event also featured a special exhibition where students displayed old Lebanese items they had collected, along with artwork and projects celebrating Lebanon’s heritage, offering a meaningful tribute to the country’s history and identity.
The Secondary School students and staff spent an inspiring and enriching day at the Internal Security Forces (ISF) Training Center in Aramoon, learning about the vital role the ISF plays in safeguarding the nation and experiencing firsthand the values of discipline, service, and patriotism.
The administration joined the celebration in a unique and engaging way. Through interactive activities, from acting out proverbs and guessing famous Lebanese landmarks to singing, solving puzzles, and identifying Lebanese celebrities, the team strengthened ties to Lebanon’s traditions and cultural legacy.
With hearts filled with pride and love for Lebanon, the entire SJS community gathered, students, teachers, and administrators, to honor Independence Day. United under the Lebanese flag, they renewed their commitment to their homeland, singing, pledging, and celebrating the values that make Lebanon a country of freedom, beauty, and hope.
These celebrations not only enriched students’ understanding of their national heritage but also strengthened the spirit of belonging that unites the SJS family.