Students from each school gathered around a Seder table and every group played their part in one unified Seder, synchronized across several time zones around the world.

"Though the Tu B'shevat Seder is a young custom in Jewish terms, only a few hundred years old, it is becoming very popular," said Amir Cindaer, Judaics teacher at The Epstein School. The fruits of seven trees are eaten, each with its own meaning. Students enjoyed chocolate from the carob tree, figs, almonds, dates, olives, apples and oranges.

The Epstein School's participation in this interactive exchange is made possible through the strength of its technology department. "This experience allows students to celebrate together with Jews from around the world, reminding us that we have much in common. Projects like this open Epstein's doors. The world is now our living classroom," Rothbard explains.

Students Ari Edlin and Judah Kerbel spoke live to the global audience on behalf of Atlanta, explaining the colorful scene and artwork created for the Epstein School's Seder table.

The Epstein School, Solomon Schechter School of Atlanta, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, and offers one of the finest dual-language immersion program in the country for grades K – 8. Epstein is well known for combining innovative and traditional teaching methods to create the highest quality general and Judaic education available.

The Epstein School is one of Federation's local beneficiary agencies, and received an allocation of $341,431 in FY04.