When the Classroom Has No Walls: Inside BRLHS’s Palomar Retreat

This is not how most schools would describe their classrooms, but for Bais Rochel Leah High School students, this was the setting for learning, reflection, and growth.

03 Feb 2026, 01:40 by COLlive Admin · COLlive

This is not how most schools would describe their classrooms, but for Bais Rochel Leah High School students, this was the setting for learning, reflection, and growth.

Recently, students returned from an extraordinary four-day retreat in one of California’s most exquisite natural environments.

Nestled on Palomar Mountain, CA, the outing took place on a breathtaking 200-acre property featuring a serene lake, rustic cabins, winding trails, majestic mountains, and expansive forestland. Removed from the pace of daily life and surrounded by the beauty of Hashem’s world, the girls were given a rare opportunity to fully immerse themselves in personal reflection, connection, and spiritual Jewish growth.

From the moment they arrived, the setting itself became a powerful teacher, creating a space for learning uniquely supported by being outside the walls of a traditional classroom setting.

The stillness of the lake, the openness of the trails, and the grandeur of the mountains created an atmosphere that encouraged mindfulness, presence, and depth. Being deeply immersed in nature allowed the students to disconnect from distractions and reconnect with themselves, with one another, and with their Yiddishkeit in a meaningful and lasting way.

A highlight of the retreat was the inspiring leadership of Mrs. Manya Lazaroff, who traveled from Texas to spend these days with the students. Mrs. Lazaroff, who, along with her husband, leads Chabad at Texas A&M University, brought an exceptional blend of warmth, insight, and authenticity. Through her words, activities, and personal example, she challenged the girls to reflect deeply on who they are, what they stand for, and how they can continue to grow into proud Jewish young women.

Students consistently shared that Manya’s teachings stayed with them long after the retreat ended. One student reflected on a powerful message she learned: “Everything is in Hashem’s hands. I should think about things less and try not to stress as much—He knows what He is doing.” This perspective helped many girls reframe how they approach challenges, cultivating greater trust, calm, and emotional resilience.

The program was thoughtfully structured and rich in content, balancing spiritual depth with experiential connection. Activities included multiple workshops, uplifting farbrengens, small-group sessions, hiking, bonfires, and other immersive nature-based experiences. These moments, both structured and informal, allowed the girls to slow down, be present, and connect authentically. The smaller discussion groups, in particular, created space for meaningful dialogue, honest questions, and personal reflection in a supportive environment. One student shared that she especially valued the deep conversations, noting that she “enjoyed the conversations we had—very deep, about life,” and that the retreat helped her grow closer to many of her peers.

One especially meaningful activity was the gratitude jar exercise, which invited students to affirm one another. A student shared that reading the notes written by her classmates once she returned home had a profound impact: “I discovered things about myself I didn’t even realize were recognized. A lot of people wrote the same things, which made me realize it’s probably true. Sometimes I go back and read them, and it really lifts me up.” This activity not only strengthened peer relationships but also helped students internalize a more positive, confident self-image, something that carries over into the classroom long after the retreat ends.

The farbrengens, filled with inspiration and song, fostered a sense of unity and inner motivation that resonated throughout the retreat. Many students described leaving with a noticeably different mindset. As one student observed, “A lot of people walked away with an overall mindset change—both in how they viewed their peers and the world.” Another reflected on a personal level, “I realized I have a genuine love for everyone in our high school. Even people I don’t know so well still have something special to offer.”

Mrs. Manya Lazaroff’s influence was felt deeply. Students described her as a strong, grounded role model who radiated positivity and purpose. One student shared that Manya’s overall outlook on life—recognizing that every individual has a purpose and that every action carries meaning—was deeply empowering. Through her strength and clarity, she inspired the girls to take pride in who they are as Chabad Jewish women and taught them to never underestimate their ability to make a real impact on the world.

Over the course of four days, the girls grew closer to one another, forming bonds that went far beyond friendship. They became a unified group—like a family—supporting, encouraging, and inspiring one another. The shared experiences of learning, hiking, discussing, and reflecting created a strong sense of belonging and connection that will continue long after the retreat ended.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Alevy Foundation for generously making this beautiful, sprawling resort available. Their support made this transformative experience possible and continues to strengthen Jewish education and growth for the next generation.

The girls returned home inspired and energized, fired up to continue growing and to increase their commitment to scholarship and learning. Experiences like this retreat capture the essence of what makes Bais Rochel Leah High School truly special. Beyond academics, Bais Rochel Leah is deeply committed to nurturing the whole student—mind, heart, and soul. By creating opportunities for authentic Jewish growth, meaningful relationships, and inspired leadership, the school empowers its students with clarity in their values and confidence in their mission.

The lasting impact of the Palomar retreat is evident in the girls’ renewed sense of purpose, strengthened commitment to learning, and deep bonds formed with one another. This is the BRLHS difference: an environment where students are inspired to grow, to lead, and to carry their Yiddishkeit forward with passion and pride.

For a limited time, qualified incoming 9th-grade students can take advantage of an exclusive grant offering all-inclusive tuition for under $10,000.

This is a powerful way to invest in your daughter’s education, values, and future, without compromising on the warmth, support, and high standards you expect. Spaces are limited.

When the Classroom Has No Walls: Inside BRLHS’s Palomar Retreat

This is not how most schools would describe their classrooms, but for Bais Rochel Leah High School students, this was the setting for learning, reflection, and growth.

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