Since 2018, Wise School has proudly partnered with the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and the Jewish Agency for Israel to bring the ShinShinim program to our community. ShinShinim, short for Shnat Sherut (Year of Service), connects Jewish communities around the world with modern Israeli culture and life by sending outstanding post-high school Israeli young adults to serve abroad for a year. At Wise, we refer to these young leaders as Shlichim—emissaries.

We’ve had the privilege of welcoming six incredible Shlichim over the years: Roy, Stav, Rom, Oriel, Gabi, Yael, Edan, and Naomi. Each brought their unique energy, creativity, and passion to our campus, helping students build a personal connection to Israel.

Shlichim are selected through a highly competitive process that evaluates their leadership skills, creativity, interpersonal abilities, knowledge of Israeli society, and English fluency. Once chosen, they receive extensive training in Jewish history, values, and education before beginning their service.

During their time at Wise, each Shaliach plays an integral role in daily school life, including:

• Leading experiential programs around Israeli holidays and memorial days like Yom HaShoah, Yom Ha’Atzmaut, and Tu B’Shvat
• Designing engaging lessons for Hebrew and Judaic Studies, integrating Israeli music, art, culture, and current events
• Facilitating outdoor games and Israeli-style activities
• Mentoring and connecting with students during lunch and recess

Our Shlichim also stay with host families from the Wise community, building meaningful bonds that often last well beyond their year of service.

To learn more about our Shaliach for the 2025–2026 school year, Talia Bal Balilti, click here.