Summer vacation is over and 26 kids arrive to school fearful of their notoriously strict new teacher, Irena. Russian born Irena immigrated to Israel with her son and husband who died shortly after. She faces the challenge of teaching the third grade in one of the most difficult neighborhoods in Jerusalem where poverty, violence and unemployment are widespread. Using her unique approach, combining uncompromising discipline and love she propels a real change in the lives of her students. Following the course of the school year the film offers a window into the confines of a classroom.