8440 —שמירת קשר התלמידים וצמיחתם במשך חופשת הקיץ

B"H, 18 Sivan, 5722.

Brooklyn, NY.

To the esteemed Haraha"g vavac"h iy"a engaged in tzt"z etc. Avraham

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Following our conversation and in response to your question regarding ways and methods of influencing the students—may they live—of the yeshiva under your administration, I wish to emphasize a point among the other points we discussed. This is a central point with significant consequences and is timely: Noting the alarming phenomenon of studies being interrupted during the summer for more than two months—in most yeshivas in this country—with this interruption comes a severing of the connection between students and yeshiva and a lack of its influence on one hand, and on the other hand, there is an opposing influence from the city especially during summer days, with much idleness resulting, etc.

It is very worthwhile and proper to encourage the yeshiva teachers to volunteer to arrange meetings at least once a week or every two weeks with those students who remain in the city during summer, especially with those in higher classes. The purpose of these meetings is to maintain the connection between students and teachers throughout the summer—through friendly gatherings that are opportune times for discussions on topics that interest the students and are beneficial for uplifting their spirits, strengthening their conduct and behavior, improving character traits, etc.

In an appropriate manner, these meetings can also be used to encourage students to set fixed times for Torah study even during summer days, to be meticulous about communal prayer, and to strengthen their sense of responsibility as yeshiva students to serve as examples for others. One mitzvah leads to another—use every opportunity for educational activity in their environment to fulfill the great principle in Torah: VeAhavta LeReiacha Kamocha ("Love your fellow as yourself").

There are many advantages in these meetings: The meetings themselves and their encouragement; strengthening the bond between teachers and students; serving as a shield against undesirable influences; preventing total abandonment of yeshiva discipline; etc., whose results will be evident when students return to yeshiva at the appropriate time.

It is understood that for best results it should be arranged so that students come to these meetings willingly. Even if at first not many participate, it can be hoped that if these meetings have suitable and appealing content, word will spread and more will join.

I hope you will give attention to implementing this plan—and others will see and learn from you as well; merit for many assists them.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that maintaining regular contact between teachers and students during summer break strengthens their spiritual growth, preserves their connection to Torah values, and inspires positive influence within their communities even outside formal learning periods.