Chicagoland Jewish High School www.cjhs.org
FALL 2015 / 5776
CJHS NEWS
Shanah Tovah! May this New Year be blessed with health, happiness, and many sweet moments! CJHS Fall 2015/ 5776
In This Issue
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Message from Head of School Tony Frank
Message from Board President Lynn Schrayer Tiger Torah Rabbi Zachary Silver
CJHS Academics Accomplishments at a glance, 2014/2015 Mazal Tov Class of 2015 A look at the graduating class of 2015 Athletics Athletic achievements Teacher Spotlight Meet Mr. Joseph Eskin
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS
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The Model United Nations Experience From the eyes of Emma and Julia Mati
CJHS Bids Farewell to Faculty Member Dr. Gary Auslander
A Look Inside the Senior Israel Experience Connecting students to the land of Israel Admissions: From Public School to CJHS The journey to CJHS by the Levin Family
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News from Development and the PO Getting involved, 2015/2016 opportunities Alumni Connections Where are they now? Stay Connected
ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM Head of School Tony Frank
Academic Dean Bruce E. Scher
Dean of Faculty Roger Stein, Ph.D.
Rav Beit Sefer Rabbi Zachary Silver
Director of Jewish Studies Rebecca Schorsch, Ph.D. Director of Development Michelle Friedman Director of Admissions Riv Lynch
Director of Finance & Business Operations Robert Krakowsky
THE CLASS OF 2015
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ATHLETICS
Director of Building & Administrative Services Inez Drazin
CONTENT, LAYOUT & DESIGN
Marketing & Communications Manager Tara Seymour Executive Administrative Assistant Michele Agbodza
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL, TONY FRANK Over the past three years, CJHS has engaged in a formal process of self-evaluation including surveys of students, parents and alumni, a comprehensive self study, a three-day site visit by a team of professional peers on behalf of the Independent Schools Association of Central States (ISACS), our accrediting organization, and most recently, a site visit by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The very positive feedback we received from all of these is a source of much satisfaction and pride for us. It also got us thinking about what makes CJHS so special and what distinguishes us from other schools. We know that choosing to attend CJHS is a big decision for our families and we honor the commitment they make in doing so. We devote considerable time to thinking about this commitment and talking to families about their reasons for choosing CJHS. Here, in narrative form, are some of the things we often hear: It begins with relationships. Teachers at CJHS come to know their students broadly and deeply, as multi-dimensional human beings. The close and caring relationships they form with students promote students’ confidence in their ability to meet the challenges of adulthood. Along the way, students at CJHS find and develop their individual and unique voices. They acquire a remarkable capacity for critical thinking that is grounded in Jewish learning and traditions.
Each student’s individual development unfolds in the embrace of a supportive community. But students at CJHS are not expected to conform to a mold. There is no one way you have to be, other than authentically yourself and respectful of the dignity of others. Students are challenged to become their best selves rather than to achieve a generic definition of success. In the process, CJHS students develop commitments to causes that are greater than their individual selves, and to a better world. Students graduate from CJHS exceedingly well-prepared not only for success, but for a rich and meaningful life in college and beyond. They leave CJHS with a strong sense of pride in their Judaism and with the confidence to navigate the complexity of living as Jews in the modern world. Already in college, they find that activism, leadership and community involvement come naturally to them, and they are Jewishly knowledgeable role models for Jews and non-Jews alike. In short, CJHS students are leaders today and the leaders of tomorrow. How do we achieve this? For sure it is through outstanding faculty, curriculum, programs and instruction. But as I stated earlier, the key ingredient is the centrality of everyday human relationships in the CJHS experience, relationships that form the fabric of a community that nourishes and enriches us all. What are your reasons for choosing CJHS? What are the qualities of CJHS that you have identified as both compelling and unique? We would love to hear from you! Please feel free to email me at tfrank@cjhs.org with your thoughts so that we can learn from your perspective and articulate these qualities more effectively for others. And thank you for being our partners in creating this very special CJHS community!
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MESSAGE FROM BOARD PRESIDENT, LYNN SCHRAYER It is my honor and privilege to serve as President of the Board of Directors of Chicagoland Jewish High School for the next two years. I am deeply passionate about our school and am committed, along with your Board of Directors, to supporting our mission to “... create a culture of academic excellence that inspires our students to think critically and achieve their full potential, while preparing them to live Judaism as responsible and involved citizens in the modern world”. I have served on this Board for the past five years and I believe that this is a group of dedicated, intelligent, multi-faceted and talented men and women. We work together to support Tony Frank, our Head of School, and his faculty and staff to carry out the school’s mission. No one rests on our laurels (and there are many). We continuously strive to do better and be better, in every respect. Together with my husband Skip, I am the parent of two CJHS graduates and a current sophomore. I have witnessed first hand the many benefits of a CJHS education, including our students’ ability to navigate the complex world around them with thoughtfulness and ease. The foundation of a CJHS education
carries our students though college and beyond in ways they cannot begin to imagine while they are in our hallways, ways they come to recognize and appreciate as their lives unfold. Our CJHS graduates, with their critical thinking skills and self-confidence, humility and sensitivity, are the leaders on college campuses all over the country and the future leaders of our Jewish communities. Our current students are busy learning and developing these skills and each of them will graduate with the same strength of character as those that preceded them. I accepted this term of office for many reasons, but most of all for my children and yours and for all of the CJHS students, past, present and future. They are our future and the future is each and every day at CJHS. Wishing you and your family a year of health, happiness, peace and fulfillment. Shanah Tovah, Lynn Schrayer I am always happy to hear from you. So, please feel free to contact me at anytime at lschrayer@me.com or 312.618.8133.
TIGER TORAH WITH RABBI ZACHARY SILVER Rabbi Silver delivered this d’var Torah at tefillot during the 2015 Siyum.
There’s a time in the growth of every class when the rest of the school feels their collective presence. A turning point. When individuals come together and make the decision that in some way they want to influence those around them for the better. The group wants to leave their mark. This year’s graduating class stormed to the forefront of CJHS with their 2014 Purim video shpiel. And all of this humor came in the context of every member of the grade joining in the fun. Last year’s graduates have a phenomenal sense of humor. And they used these opportunities to bring together their class, and really the school as a whole. There’s something quite holy about humor. The great 20th century theologian, Reinhold Niebuhr, suggests that humor paves the way toward a life of faith.
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“Both humor and faith are expressions of the freedom of the human spirit, of its capacity to stand outside of life, and itself and the whole scene,” Niebuhr says. “Laughter is our reaction to immediate incongruities and those which do not affect us essentially. Faith is the only possible response to the ultimate incongruities of existence which threaten the very meaning of our life.”
of trust that is based on a covenant of mutual obligation that will naturally evolve over time. When we say amen during our prayers, we affirm the statement of the leader, placing our faith in the words.
It is that very trust between the people Israel and God that we just read about before Shirat HaYam, the Song of the Sea. Every day during the Pesukei d’Zimrah section of our tefillot, we read “Vayaaminu baadonai uv’moshe avdo.” The Children The class finds these incongruities in their of Israel, believed in God and Moses everyday lives. They bring people along their their servant. This trust is built upon a journeys, as well. Humor, when it stops with relationship cemented in trust. laughter, as Niebuhr notes, will inevitably end in cynicism. When our laughter is The community that we seek to build at subsumed by frustration and our own egos, CJHS is one whose humor brings everyone we lash out through the humor. together to note the incongruities in life. Like the people Israel in the Tanach, the But the Biblical understanding of faith in its humor continues into a life of faith and trust purest form, the word “emunah,” can be in each other, and ultimately God. translated simply as trust. And humor paves the way toward faith, toward trust. My blessing for the entire CJHS family is to continue growing together through humor. Every time we read the word emunah in the To transfer that humor toward the faith and Tanach, it speaks of a faith of trust, a belief trust that we build in our classrooms and in in God. Not a conditional faith that God the halls. At Shabbatonim and on the courts. will do a specific act and in turn the people A faith in each other that gives room to grow Israel will respond. and encourages each of us to be the best versions of our self. According to the Biblical understanding of emunah, we establish a relationship
ACADEMICS: TRIUMPHS IN AND OUT OF THE CLASSROOM
CELEBRATING A YEAR OF SUCCESS • CJHS had a total of 37 students recognized in the AP Scholars Program. Twenty-four students were named AP Scholars (3.80), five students were AP Scholars with Honors (4.11) and eight students were AP Scholars with Distinction (4.60). CJHS’ school average for the 2014/15 school year was 3.54 • The Model UN team received a first place award at the International High School Model United Nations Conference in New York and was honored by the Village of Deerfield and its mayor, Harriet Rosenthal • Eight members of the DECA team won 17 medals at the North Suburban Regional event (3 gold, 5 silver, 9 bronze) • The Math team came in first place during the first contest, which was hosted at CJHS, and placed sixth for the season in the Cook division of the North Suburban Math League (NSML) • The Math team placed first in all events during the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) Regional Competition • The Youth Philanthropy Initiative raised $8,000 for The ARK • Isaac Johnston (’15) and Jonah Glick-Unterman (’15) were named National Merit Finalists from the National Merit Scholarship Program • Isaac Johnston was named a National Merit University of Chicago Scholar
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MAZAL TOV TO THE CLASS OF 2015/5775!
THE 38 MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2015 WERE ADMITTED TO THE FOLLOWING UNIVERSITIES, COLLEGES AND PROGRAMS:
Allegheny College Amherst College Binghamton University Boston University Bradley University Brown University Butler University Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Clark University Columbia University Creighton University Dartmouth University Drake University Drexel University Elon University Emory University George Washington University Goucher College Grinnell College Hofstra University Indiana University Kivunim Knox College Lake Forest College Macalester College p.6
Miami University of Ohio MIT Muhlenberg College Nativ New York University Northeastern University Oberlin College Ohio State University Pomona College Princeton University Purdue University Rothberg International School at Hebrew University of Jerusalem Skidmore College Stanford University Tel Aviv University Tulane University University of California-Berkeley University of Chicago University of Colorado-Boulder University of Hartford University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign University of Illinois at Chicago University of Iowa University of Kansas
University of Maryland University of Michigan University of Minnesota University of Missouri University of New Hampshire University of Pittsburgh University of Rochester University of Vermont University of Wisconsin-Madison Yeshivat HaKotel
Did You Know? • The Class of 2015 had an average ACT Score of 29. The national average is a 21 and the state average is 20.7 • Almost half the Class of 2015 were named Illinois State Scholars • 80 percent of the Class of 2015 participated in athletics • 100 percent of the Class of 2015 participated in Tikkun Olam • The Class of 2015 was accepted into over 60 universities and programs with six colleges accepting CJHS students for the first time • 25 percent of the Class of 2015 applied and were accepted into gap year programs
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“If there is someone who is able to deal with pressure and keep moving forward, it is a CJHS student, because a CJHS student looks in the face of adversity and conquers it using the tools that CJHS has given us.” -Parker Weber (’15)
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CJHS ATHLETICS: YEAR IN REVIEW Boys Cross Country For the fifth year in a row, the varsity team won the Chicago Prep Conference Championship.
Baseball The CJHS baseball team won its first IHSA Regional Quarter final game and advanced to the semi-finals.
Girls Soccer The CJHS girls soccer team took home the Chicago Prep Conference regular season title. The team also placed second in the conference tournament.
Boys Junior Varsity Volleyball The JV volleyball team placed first during the regular season conference play. p.8
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Boys Varsity Volleyball The boys varsity volleyball team finished second in the Chicago Prep Conference Tournament.
Girls Volleyball The girls varsity volleyball team participated in the IHSA Volley for the Cure. The team raised over $300 to support Breast Cancer awareness and research.
CELEBRATING THE 2014/15 SEASON AT THE ANNUAL RECOGNITION NIGHT
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ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT: 2014/15 ACCOMPLISHMENTS All CJHS 2014/15 varsity athletic teams received the IHSA Team Academic Achievement Award Team I GPA Boys Cross Country - 3.71 Girls Cross Country - 3.70 Boys Soccer - 3.46 Girls Tennis - 3.63 Girls Volleyball - 3.62 Boys Basketball - 3.52 Girls Basketball - 3.65 Baseball - 3.56 Girls Soccer - 3.62 Boys Tennis - 3.46 Boys Volleyball - 3.19 Individual Awards Pioneer Press All Area Honorable Mention Girls Soccer: Jordan Krauss & Carly Silvers Boys Volleyball: Eli Schrayer
Chicago Prep Conference All Conference Awards Boys Soccer: 1st Team - Jacob Erlichman 2nd Team - Shai Alima & Eliel Stofenmacher Girls Volleyball: 1st team - Carly Silvers 2nd team - Lena Rabinowitz Cross Country: 1st team - Gabrielle Ecanow, Yoni Maltsman, Zev Mishell, Felix Rosen, Ari Rosenthal, Akiva Stein, Ranan Vales & Parker Weber Boys Basketball: 1st Team - Josh Newlander 2nd Team - Eli Schrayer Girls Basketball: 2nd Team - Emily Reisler Baseball: 1st Team - Isaac Johnston 2nd Team - Coby Drexler
Girls Soccer: 1st Team - Jordan Krauss, Livia Moses, Ariel Saxton & Carly Silvers 2nd Team - Lena Rabinowitz Boys Volleyball: 1st Team - Shai Alima & Eli Schrayer 2nd Team - Jonathan Schrag Chicago Prep Conference Player of the Year Award Boys Basketball: Josh Newlander Girls Soccer: Jordan Krauss Josh Newlander named National Player of the Year by Jewish Hoops America for the second consecutive year • Josh was named on the 1st Team All-Jewish Hoops America Team for the third year in a row • Josh also earned 3rd team IHSA All-State Class 1A/2A honors
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: MEET MR. JOSEPH ESKIN Mr. Eskin joined the CJHS community in 2013 and currently serves as Director of Student Activities, History Teacher and Model UN Instructor. It was his aspiration to study history and work with teenagers that led him to his career in education. “Every summer I worked at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and my experiences there helped me realize how much I love working with kids,” he said. “Education seemed like a field in which I could bring those two things together.” At CJHS, Mr. Eskin encourages his students to find their voices by integrating their unique talents into different areas of the school. “I am really lucky to be able to see students in a variety of lights,” he said. “It's a pretty special thing to get to read a student's history paper while at the same time knowing that student as a powerful and articulate off-the-cuff speaker in Model UN and as an enthusiastic and goofy leader of a student club. It's always fun to meet so many students and see them in different situations.” Last year, Mr. Eskin joined the Model UN team as the instructor with the help of Dr. Gary Auslander where the duo led the team to first place honors at the International Model UN Conference in New York City. “The most rewarding aspect of leading the Model UN team has been watching them live out the values we care most deeply about as a school and carry their Judaism proudly in an intense, stressful situation,” he said. “Our students support one another and are wonderfully kind and friendly to students from other schools (and countries). It has been emotional and thrilling to watch all of their hard work pay off.”
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Mr. Eskin is looking forward to working with the Model UN team again this year. He is focused on enriching students’ understanding of major topics while helping them to craft innovative ideas to problem solve world issues. In addition to his responsibilities at CJHS, Mr. Eskin enjoys working with the Tikvah (special needs) program at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin where he has spent the past six summers. “Camp is a special community in which I feel totally comfortable and happy Jewishly. My experiences there have kept me engaged during the year as well. After leaving camp, I come back to CJHS inspired to continue teaching, learning and living Judaism, and to create an inclusive, engaged and ruach-filled Jewish community.” When asked what the most rewarding part of his job is, Mr. Eskin responded, “It has been pretty special to see my students grow over the past two years. The freshmen I met on my first day of school have grown into mature and impressive juniors, and the sophomores I laughed with two years ago are skilled and college-ready seniors. The growth of students is the most rewarding part of the job.” Mr. Eskin looks forward to another year of teaching and cannot wait to see what the students create in and out of the classroom!
Quick Facts: Where have you traveled? Israel, Poland and Canada. What has been your most exciting adventure? My most exciting adventure was a five-week camping trip through the Pacific Northwest. I went hiking in the Grand Tetons National Park, went mountain biking in Banff, learned how to surf outside of Vancouver, and camped out without a tent in the badlands. It was an amazing trip I will never forget. What is your favorite book? The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, by Mark Twain; Robert Caro’s biography of Lyndon Johnson. What is on your playlist? I have never owned an iPod so I don’t really have a playlist, but I usually like the usual Top 40 music on the radio. Talent: I can juggle!
ACADEMICS: THE MODEL UNITED NATIONS EXPERIENCE
By Emma and Julia Mati This past year has been historic. The CJHS Model United Nations (MUN) team was one of three teams to take home first place honors at the International Model UN competition in New York. A Look Inside the Model UN Experience As sisters, nothing compares to being able to experience the excitement of working together on the same team. It is remarkably special and a great learning opportunity for the both of us. So, what is Model UN? The general purpose of Model United Nations is to debate world issues and prepare resolutions from a specific country’s perspective. Model UN is unique because all the materials used for learning come directly from the events taking place in today’s society. Throughout the year, before our team is assigned to a country, most of our coursework is devoted to building new skills such as public speaking and current event analysis. These skills develop throughout the course of the year. When we first began MUN as rookies, the experience was a bit intimidating — the team veterans are so talented! However, watching the upperclassmen demonstrate their techniques was our inspiration. Fortunately, each MUN member is highly motivated and is dedicated to the success of the entire team. Members who carry multiple years of experience understand the importance of mentoring and are often found guiding new or younger members throughout the process. As the year progresses and our country, committees and partners are assigned, our responsibilities become more rigorous. A significant amount of work involves position papers, which are research papers designed to fit a specific format with detailed information regarding our assigned topics. In the Mati household, many late nights are dedicated to the deliberation of our respective papers. It’s challenging but meaningful work that greatly prepares us for the annual conference in New York City. Once our papers are edited, revised and submitted, most of our class is devoted to preparing for committee sessions at the conference. This time is generally spent in committee simulations in which students model real committee sessions, which include: debating topics, engaging in working blocs (group of countries working together) and writing resolutions. The Conference The International Conference is an exciting experience for our team. It is where we put our hard-earned skills into action and see our cumulative efforts come to life.
When we arrive in New York, the conference begins quickly. Partners meet up with one another to discuss last minute details before heading off to the opening ceremony. Throughout the day, everyone disperses into their respective committees. Topics are debated and working blocs are created. As the conference progresses, work becomes more demanding and our team sees each other less and less. However, we still manage to stay united. Every morning we step away from the hectic conference for tefillah, morning prayer. It is an important way for us to begin each day while giving us an opportunity to catch up with one another. Each year we also welcome Shabbat together. We walk to services through the cold but bustling New York City streets. What an experience! The committee sessions last for three quick-paced days. Resolutions are voted as the sessions come to a close. On our final day in New York, we walk to the United Nations building for the General Assembly where the plenary session takes place. Often times members of the CJHS Model UN team give briefings to the conference on what they have accomplished during their time in a specific committee. When the conference ends and the awards have been distributed, we reconnect as a group and take note on all of our accomplishments both big and small. Last year, in particular, we were extra excited and so very proud of our first place finish! The 2015 Welcome Home We were welcomed home with a special invitation from the Mayor of Deerfield, Harriet Rosenthal. She asked our team to attend a Village Board Meeting to recognize our accomplishments and to open the session with the Pledge of Allegiance. When the day arrived, our team congregated at the Deerfield Village Hall. We waited anxiously, unsure of what to expect. When our team was announced to step forward we were full of emotion. In front of the mayor and the village trustees, we introduced ourselves and shared our roles, responsibilities and accomplishments. As a surprise, the village of Deerfield presented our team with a large blue sign, which recognized our first place honor from the conference. We were incredibly honored. The opportunity to share our success with the Mayor and the community at large has been truly unforgettable. We look forward to another rewarding year to come! Street signs recognizing the recent accomplishment of the Model United Nations team at CJHS stand at five entrances to the village of Deerfield.
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CJHS BIDS FAREWELL TO DR. GARY AUSLANDER Longtime social worker, educator and coach, Dr. Gary Auslander, brought his passion for helping others to CJHS. After five decades of work in both public and private schools, Dr. Auslander has retired. From coaching the Model UN team to multiple victories to lending a hand during bowling practices, his contributions to the school will have a lasting impact on the students, staff and community at CJHS. His influence began at the school’s inception when only a handful of students roamed the hallway of the Morton Grove location. Then, he worked part-time as the school’s social worker where some of his fondest memories have been preserved. “I remember how special it was to be in that one hallway school. During passing periods we saw each other and squeezed in quick conversations during the three-minute periods. As the school grew and we moved to Deerfield, things changed and we all talked about the meaning of that change. It was a great experience.” Dr. Auslander’s desire to make a difference in the lives of students became more impactful with the growth of the school. As the number of students increased, so too did his involvement and dedication. Towards the end of his career, Dr. Auslander took the opportunity to chair numerous clubs and activities including the yearly Bike the Drive event, Model UN and the bowling teams. His decision to retire came with a heavy heart because of his strong bonds with the students and staff. “It was not difficult to become attached to the students,” he said. “I had a great sense of pride being at a school that has so many outstanding young people and faculty members that I have become very close to over the years.” “I want to thank the faculty and administration for working so hard to put Jewish education high on the list of priorities. I sincerely hope that students leave CJHS with a desire to get involved Jewishly and will continue to support Israel and the Jewish people.” In the coming months, Dr. Auslander will devote some time to a small child psychiatric practice. He looks forward to spending more time with his six grandchildren in Chicago and Boca Raton, Florida where he has a second residence. He is currently enjoying his days with no major commitments and is thrilled to devote more time to his favorite activities of bowling, biking and volunteering! To keep in touch with Dr. Auslander, email him at gar1942@gmail.com.
“Gary is an incredible story teller and an even better listener. He has engaged CJHS students and staff in conversation since 2001 and has initiated many activities that bring out the best in everyone. Among his most noted adventures are creating and coaching the CJHS Bowling team, organizing and chaperoning the highly successful Model UN team, the yearly Backgammon and Ping Pong tournaments and organizing and riding in the annual Bike the Drive event. Gary always found ways to incorporate his passions into the school...like the time he raised money for the Model UN trip to New York through ice-cream! His concern for students’ social needs is contagious and his influence on life at CJHS will long be remembered and missed by our community. — Inez Drazin, Director of Building & Administrative Services p.12
“Throughout my high school experience, Dr. Auslander was both a mentor and a friend. I first got to know him when I joined the bowling team freshman year. I continued bowling throughout the next three years of high school, during which time my bond with Dr. Auslander grew stronger. He was not only a dedicated and caring coach, but became for me a constant source of positivity and support. Whenever I encountered him in the halls of CJ, I was immediately drawn into conversation. We would talk about schoolwork, family, and most importantly—baseball! There were even times when I was late to my first period class because I didn’t want our conversations to end! But also, of course, at those more difficult moments when I needed someone to talk to, he was unconditionally ready to listen. I thank him for his many years of heartfelt dedication to this school and its students!”— Aitan Licht (’13)
A LOOK INSIDE THE SENIOR ISRAEL EXPERIENCE Israel’s Declaration of Independence, Megillat HaAtzmaut, gave Israel its defining characteristics as a Jewish and democratic state. The CJHS Senior Israel Experience explores these essential and unique traits of the Jewish state every day. We hear from native Israelis across the political and religious spectrum and note the diversity of the views, placing ourselves in the ongoing conversation about the values of the Jewish state and how they are lived on the ground. Israel is a marvel for modern Judaism in the way it exhibits the ideals of what it means to live under Jewish sovereignty. Each January, students embrace the cultural richness of Israel, explore its natural wonders, and engage with Israeli teens about what their ways of life look like. Whether students have been to Israel every year of their lives, or this is the first time in the Jewish homeland, the Senior Israel Experience builds on the curriculum students learn in the classroom and places them as part of the continuing conversation about building a state according to Jewish values. “The first time I ever went to Israel, I was 14-years-old. My family went on a much awaited trip to the Holy Land and we toured around the country for 10 days. After the trip, I couldn’t wait to go back. The Senior Israel Experience, four years later, was my next opportunity to return. On this trip, lasting three weeks, we got to travel throughout Israel while also getting an insight into the political issues that affect the land. What I loved most about the trip was how we were given some freedom to explore on our own. Walking around Ben Yehuda or Machane Yehuda market, I was able to really experience the country in my own way.” — Tali Geifman (’15)
“The Senior Israel trip was an incredible bonding experience for my classmates and me. From facing our fears on the high ropes course and on the desert mountains to exploring all the unique viewpoints of the Israeli conflict, we spent our days learning and taking on new challenges together. We had the opportunity to take a step back from our personal realities and explore the ideas and lifestyles of the people of Israel. My classmates and I came to Israel as friends but left as a unified family. Overall, this trip confirmed my desire to continue my discovery of Israel, and I am looking forward to embarking on Nativ, a gap year program in the fall.” — Larry Bender (’15)
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ADMISSIONS: FROM PUBLIC SCHOOL TO CJHS Q & A with Lexi Levin (’17) of Highland Park How does CJHS compare to other schools? The sense of community that exists at CJ is like nothing I’ve ever experienced. Not only are all of the kids friendly with one another (no matter the grade), but the students form exceptionally unique and close relationships with their teachers. The quality of the faculty is exceptional. The care they demonstrate for their students and the attention they give us is truly invaluable. Why did you decide to transfer to CJHS? I wanted a more interactive classroom experience. The teachers and students feel very enthusiastic about academics at CJ, and the material being taught is so engaging. Was it a difficult decision? Initially, I was afraid. I have a lot of friends at my former school and was nervous to see how they would react to my leaving and how it would affect my relationships with them. Once exploring the idea of CJ further, I was so impressed by everything the school had to offer. This motivation ultimately gave me the courage to make the transition. What drew you the most to CJHS? I felt that my previous school put big emphasis on grades, memorizing facts and “teaching the tests”. At CJHS, the teachers are committed to provoking thought in the classroom and helping their students grow as intellectuals and as people. Now, my learning in the discussion-based classes at CJ not only educates me but guides me to define my own value system.
Describe the transfer process: CJ was such a welcoming environment. The incredible student community and most of the faculty (even the ones who weren’t my teachers) knew my name before I even knew theirs! Since arriving at CJHS, what has been your favorite class and student activity? I did not expect to really enjoy my Bible class! I assumed that the class would be boring; mostly about translating biblical texts and being quizzed on different story facts. I could not have been more wrong. By engaging me to talk and think about broad, abstract, modern-day ideas in the Tanach, the Judaic classes have really helped me develop a sense of self. Do you have any leadership roles at CJHS? Yes. My freshman year, I recall “feeling like I go to this school, but it doesn’t feel like my school”. One of the main reasons I love CJ so much is because it empowers me to take initiative and become a leader in our community. At CJ I feel like I am much more than “just a number”. I look forward to my role as a spirit club co-president with my friend Hannah Taussig this school year! What advice would you offer to a student transferring to CJHS? Don’t be afraid! I was so afraid of what my freshman year friends would think, but all of them were really happy for me (some even said they wished their parents would enroll them, too). If they’re true friends, they’ll support you through your decision. Also, I know that people might be concerned that the school is small, but the sense of community that exists really broadens the scope. At many schools there are “friend groups” of about 10 people who only associate with one another. The size of the school grants us the ability to form intimate relationships with a diverse and larger group of people. The class size is also irrelevant because close friendships are formed with people in other grades, which makes the school feel bigger.
The Parent Perspective: Brad and Sherry Levin When did CJHS become a school choice for you and your family? We considered CJHS while Lexi was in eighth grade but it became a more compelling choice during her freshman year at another school. How did you, as parents, facilitate the conversation about transferring Lexi to CJHS? Was Lexi the driving force? And how and when did you step in? As her parents, we did not make the decision for her. We simply proposed the idea of transferring and recommended that she strongly consider it. After a short time, Lexi believed that a different academic environment would be better suited for her. We now know that her transfer was the best decision possible. CJ has re-ignited an interested student. How long did it take you to decide that CJHS was the right school for Lexi? One week. After Mr. Scher and the admissions director had a conference call with Lexi and described the dynamic learning atmosphere at CJ, we believed it would be a great choice. Once enrolled, we knew it was the right decision. p.14
What are some of the reasons why you chose CJHS? A caring community, highly accomplished and dedicated teachers, a solid academic foundation and small class size. CJ makes each student feel as though he/she is part of a larger community. Each child is there to contribute uniquely to the greater whole with individual talents and interests. Each student matters. What was the transition like for you and your family after admission into the school? Easy, comfortable and enjoyable. How would you describe the CJHS community? Welcoming. What advice would you offer to parents of a child who is interested in transferring to CJHS? No matter what your family’s level of observance, CJHS is an exceptional school that can meet the needs of every Jewish teen. In addition to a college preparatory curriculum, the Jewish studies component challenges students to think critically and develop sophisticated analytical skills. A CJ education empowers its students with self awareness and the know how to succeed in many areas of their personal and professional lives. A CJHS education is the most exceptional gift you can possibly give your child.
DEVELOPMENT: GIVING AND ENDOWMENT OPPPORTUNITIES Chicagoland Jewish High School’s Annual Appeal supports tuition assistance. As in most private schools, tuition alone does not cover the total expense of educating students. The ongoing generosity of our supporters helps bridge the gap between tuition and the operating budget. Almost half of our students receive tuition assistance and it is our policy not to turn away any qualified Jewish student who wishes to attend CJHS. Additionally, offering tuition assistance enables us to attract a more diverse student body that provides for a richer educational and social experience for our students. Since 2012, Chicagoland Jewish High School’s endowment fund has received almost $2.7 million in pledges and contributions. Endowment contributions will support our academic programs, athletics, extra-curricular activities, scholarship needs and Jewish life at CJHS now and for future generations. All gifts to the CJHS endowment and annual funds are appreciated—no contribution is too small! Endowment gifts may be paid over a three to five year period. Naming opportunities begin at $25,000 and donors may name spaces in honor or memory of loved ones. Examples of spaces to be named include the Beit Knesset at $3 million, a Science Lab at $200,000 and mezuzot at $25,000 or $50,000. If you are interested in learning more about the annual appeal, endowment opportunities or other ways to support CJHS, please contact Michelle Friedman, Director of Development, at mfriedman@cjhs.org or 847.324.3720.
Mezuzot Science Lab
Mezuzot
Beit Knesset
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CJHS PARENT ORGANIZATION (PO) The CJHS PO has plans in the works for an event-filled year! Join us for student and parent grade get-togethers and adult education events, volunteer at our PO student special breakfast, take part in our faculty and staff appreciation programs and meet other parents. Please contact us at po@cjhs.org with your questions, comments or to volunteer. We look forward to hearing from you! There are many fun and meaningful ways to get involved. We are looking to fill the following positions: • Faculty and Staff Appreciation Chairperson for the 2015-2016 School Year Responsibilities include Rosh Hashanah gift distribution, collecting donations for Chanukah, managing end of year gift funds and distributing gift cards to staff and faculty. • Book Club Co-Chair for the 2015-2016 School Year Join our current chairperson to help select books and/or movies (usually two per year) and organize the evenings. • Grade Get-Together Co-Chairs for the 2016-2017 school year Shadow this year’s co-chairs for the remaining get-together and take over their responsibilities next year. • Treasurer for the 2016-2017 school year Learn the job from this year’s Treasurer and take over the responsibilities for next year. • Student Breakfast Help with set-up and clean-up on the day of the breakfast (date TBD) and/or shadow this year’s co-chairs to see how the breakfast is put together and take over the responsibilities next year. Karen Ecanow and Debbie Copley CJHS PO Co-Presidents
“Being involved with the PO has allowed me to foster community connections personally and to see them evolve both in and outside of CJHS.” — Karen Ecanow
GET CONNECTED
Stay connected with the latest PO happenings, news and events on Facebook! ‘Like’ us today! www.facebook.com/ChicagolandJewishHighSchoolParentOrganization
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ALUMNI CONNECTIONS – WHERE ARE THEY NOW? CJHS TALKS TO MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2006 Avram Pachter Avram’s love for food has taken him on a culinary journey around the world. Since graduating from CJHS, he has followed his ambition of becoming a chef to provide Jews and non-Jews alike with delicious food that is prepared in accordance to kashrut. He has built an impressive resume featuring years of hands-on cooking experience from Kibbutz Ein Tzurim in southern Israel, Olive Restaurant in Jerusalem, Abigael’s on Broadway in New York City, Circle of Life Kosher Catering in Highland Park, Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School in Chicago, OSRUI in Oconomowoc, WI and Ramah Day Camp in Wheeling.
This past summer, Avram worked at Ramah Outdoor Adventure in the Rocky Mountains where he was the Food Service Director and Head Chef for the second time in three years. “It’s an awesome camp with amazing people,” he said. “There is just something about the community that keeps bringing me back. It’s a second home to me.” During his free time, Avram often staffs programs through USY and has been integral for CJHS shabbatonim and PO events! He is an active member of several Jewish young adult programs throughout Lakeview where he finds joy in engaging with other members of the Jewish community.
Avram’s path to cooking began in Jerusalem at the Conservative Yeshiva where he participated in the gap-year program, Nativ. Upon completion, he received a certification in Culinary Arts from the Jerusalem Culinary Institute. He later continued his studies and received a degree in Culinary Arts from Chicago’s Kendall College.
In the coming year he plans to gain new experiences in-and-out of the kitchen. Avram will do this by incorporating his love for travel along with his compassion for giving back to the communities that have helped shape him in to the person he is today.
Shayna Flink
Shayna Flink graduated from CJHS with a desire to work in education and inspire youth around the globe. After high school, Shayna spent a gap year in Israel on the Nativ program, where her time there inspired her love for Jewish education. After Nativ, Shayna attended the joint program through Columbia University and the Jewish Theological Seminary where she studied Anthropology and Talmud. Shayna became a full time educator at Central Synagogue in New York where she wrote the 4th grade Hebrew school curriculum. Through this experience, she decided to pursue a career in Jewish day schools and began looking for opportunities within the community. She later began working as a first grade teaching assistant at Hannah Senesh Community Day School in Brooklyn. At the same time, Shayna began a graduate program at Bank Street College where she is currently studying Special
Avram credits much of his success to his years at CJHS. “CJHS prepared me for life after high school by giving me the tools to succeed in anything that I set my mind to,” he said. Avram is also grateful that “CJHS taught me to never give up on my dreams and to keep pushing myself to accomplish everything I want to.”
Education and Elementary Education. She will complete all of her coursework this December and will officially graduate in May 2016! This fall, Shayna will begin working at The Shefa School, which is a Jewish Special Education day school in Manhattan that focuses on language based learning disabilities, one of the first in its kind. Shayna has found that her experiences as a pioneer student at CJHS has drawn her to work at a school like Shefa and be a part of its development. “Just as I was part of the building process of CJHS, I want to encourage my students to feel empowered to bring their interests and strengths to the school and contribute to the development of the school culture. I want to be a source of encouragement for my students to dream big and to try new things, just as my teachers were to me.” Shayna often reflects back to her years at CJHS and remembers how teachers went above and beyond, instilling confidence and support in her as a student. “I feel strongly about teaching my students to be good people. I believe in helping my students develop a sense of who they are, and encouraging them to feel confident and proud of themselves.” Shayna credits her experience at CJHS in the old building to her determination of starting programs at the Shefa School. These experiences have been passed down to Shayna and have impacted the kind of teacher she is today. Story by Alena Burda (’14) p.17
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION—JOIN THE LEADERSHIP TEAM Chicagoland Jewish High School
To become a member of the Leadership Team, please send an e-mail to alumni@cjhs.org with the following information:
Alumni Association
— Name: — Address: — E-mail: — Phone:
Every graduate of Chicagoland Jewish High School is a member of the CJHS Alumni Association. To date, CJHS has nearly 400 alumni from twelve different graduating classes across the US and around the globe. Each graduate possesses his or her own unique skills and expertise in a variety of areas that can greatly contribute to the CJHS community. We invite our graduates to join our new leadership team to bring their expertise to the CJHS community. The goal of the leadership team is to support the initiatives of the school and provide programming for alumni. The CJHS Alumni Association is looking for graduates who can assist us in reconnecting with lost alumni, lend your name to a fundraising appeal for the alumni campaign or help plan an alumni get-together. We welcome your ideas as we continue to grow. Even if you are no longer living in the Chicagoland area, we can still use your help!
Please let us know how you would like to help: Class Chair Responsibilities include: Helping us reconnect to members of your graduating class through social media and other means, spreading the word about alumni events and CJHS news. Alumni Campaign Responsibilities include: Lending your name to the annual appeal letter and sending solicitation letters to members of your graduating class. Alumni Event Committee Responsibilities include: Plan and execute events for members of the CJHS alumni community. Other We welcome any additional ideas you have for other opportunities to get involved.
SAVE THE DATE p.18
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION—SAVE THE DATE Join your friends, classmates and teachers at the 2015 Alumni Reunion Get-Together!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2015 7:00 P.M. IN THE CAPLAN GYMNASIUM CHICAGOLAND JEWISH HIGH SCHOOL
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Chicagoland Jewish High School
NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID DEERFIELD, IL PERMIT NO.101
www.cjhs.org
1095 Lake Cook Road Deerfield, IL 60015 847.470.6700
UPCOMING EVENTS October 1, 2015 Sukkah Hop
October 12, 2015 Parlor Meeting for Prospective Families – Buffalo Grove October 13, 2015 Grandparents Meet and Greet
October 15, 2015 Parlor Meeting for Prospective Families – Deerfield October 19, 2015 Parlor Meeting for Prospective Families – Chicago
October 26, 2015 Parlor Meeting for Prospective Families – Evanston November 1, 2015 Open House for Prospective Families – CJHS November 7, 2015 Homecoming
November 28, 2015 Alumni Basketball Game December 21, 2015 – January 3, 2016 Winter Break
January 3-22, 2016 Senior Israel Experience
May 25, 2016 Athletic Recognition Night
February 23, 2016 Curriculum Night for Prospective Families
May 26, 2016 Grandparents and Special Friends Day
April 10, 2016 Wagner Institute
June 1, 2016 Siyum and Graduation
April 3, 2016 Performing Arts Program April 20-30, 2016 Pesach Break
May 19, 2016 New Student Bowling Party
A partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community.
May 29, 2016 Prom
June 2-7, 2016 Final Exams
CJHS Fall 2015/ 5776