30 Years of Educational Excellence: Chabad School in Riga Celebrates Milestone Anniversary
The beloved Jewish school in Riga, Latvia—part of FJC’s ‘Or Avner’ educational network—recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with a heartfelt and inspiring gathering. Over the past three decades, the school has earned a strong reputation for academic excellence and warm, value-based Jewish education. Thousands of alumni have passed through its doors, and today the school continues to thrive with more than 100 students currently enrolled and plans for future expansion.
The anniversary celebration took place in an elegant hotel hall, where current students, alumni, longtime educators, and friends of the school came together to share memories and reflect on their meaningful journey. Each guest brought with them personal stories, highlighting the deep and lasting impact the school has had on their lives.
The event was graced by the presence of Israel’s Ambassador to Latvia, Sandra Simovich, and Rabbi Mordechai and Rebbetzin Rivka Glazman—Chabad emissaries in Riga and founders of the city’s Jewish educational institutions. Also in attendance were Principal Marina Yefremova, representatives of Latvia’s Ministry of Education, community leaders, donors, and philanthropic supporters.
Many educators from across the school’s history participated, including a 90-year-old Jewish teacher who made a special effort to join. Active contributors to the school’s educational vision were recognized as well, including Rabbi Akiva and Chaya Kramer, Rabbi Shneor and Rochi kot, and educators Shmuel and Ruth Podreiz, who play key roles in teaching and inspiring the leaders of the future.
One of the most moving moments of the evening came as emotional video messages from alumni around the world were screened. Graduates shared how their time at the school shaped their Jewish identity and inspired lifelong commitments to Jewish life. One alumna from Vienna described how learning to “speak and feel Jewish” at the school helped her build a Jewish home and community of her own.
Rebbetzin Rivka Glazman summed up the atmosphere, saying: “The attention and participation of our guests is a form of support that we deeply value and are grateful for. We are filled with light, kind words, and a sense of unity, and we continue our journey with hope, faith, and our Jewish values—always moving forward and finding new inspiration. May the next ten years be even brighter, wiser, and more joyful.”
