JEC Newsletter - November 2016 by Jewish Link Marketing Solutions

A Monthly Publication of the Jewish Educational Center | November 2016 | Cheshvan 5777

Learn Torah. Love Torah. Live Torah. At RTMA, Students Live AboveTheCode In Their Own Voices - Our Three Principals Speak

SEE PAGE 9

Alumni LIVE from Israel

SEE PAGE 20

A Monthly Publication of the Jewish Educational Center | November 2016 | Cheshvan 5777

Learn Torah. Love Torah. Live Torah. At RTMA, Students Live AboveTheCode In Their Own Voice - Our Three Principals Speak

SEE PAGE 9

Alumni LIVE from Israel SEE PAGE 20

s classes resumed at the Rav Teitz Mesivta Academy, the school’s principal, Rabbi Ami Neuman, challenged returning students and incoming freshman to live and learn “AboveTheCode.” The school’s new mission statement urges students, faculty and staff to live and learn beyond the basic requirements. “As students, as Jews and as growing, reflective people, we dare not be satisfied by doing the minimum necessary,” said Rabbi Neuman. “We reach above and beyond what is required. We strive for excellence. We achieve greatness.” “Together,” he added, “We live AboveTheCode. Guided by the Torah, we passionately pursue excellence through engagement, reflection and growth. That is our mission. That is the continued on p.14 way we live. This is who

New Security Measures Keep Students Safe

Name Our Paper Contest! SEE PAGE 3

Est. 1941 - 5702 Volume I | Issue 1

Sefer Tehillim Completed Six Times at School-Wide Event

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RTMA Names New Mashgiach Ruchani

Inaugural Issue

Joseph Wilf Remembered at Bruriah Tehillim-a-Thon

n the wake of recent events, the JEC has instituted upgraded and enhanced security protocols throughout its buildings and across its campuses. The goal of the additions is to provide for the continued safety of the entire JEC family. Major additions include the stationing of armed guards in each school building, enhancements to the school’s speakers and emergency communications equipment, and the procontinued on p.13 vision of portable commu-

early four hundred Bruriah students, faculty and staff participated in a pre-Yom Kippur Tehillim-a-Thon dedicated in the memory of the late Mr. Joseph Wilf, longtime benefactor and chairman of the JEC board, who passed away in August. The Tehillim-a-thon brought the entire Bruriah student body together for the recitation of the entire Sefer Tehillim, which was completed over six times. Rav Elazar Mayer Teitz, Dean of the JEC opened his remarks by paying tribute to Mr. Wilf as a man who made philanthropy and support for Torah institutions, particularly the JEC, a cornerstone of his life. The Rav further noted that though the Wilf family business revolves around construction and development, Mr. Joseph Wilf did not allow the family name to adorn any buildings except those dedicated to Torah. Bruriah proudly carries the Wilf name on its building. Addressing the assembled crowd of students, faculty and staff, Mark Wilf, the late Joseph Wilf’s son, said of his father that, “One of

the main driving forces of his life was to build Jewish community and ensure its strong future. And there can be no better tribute, especially during the Aseres Y’may Teshuva with Yom Kippur coming up, for all of you to do this for him.” continued on p.13 Looking at

Surging Lower School Gives New Voice #Proud2BeJEC

ith a flurry of programmatic enhancements, cosmetic updates and expanded offerings, a resurgent JEC Lower School is shattering the status quo and setting a new paradigm in Jewish education. Energy and spirit courses through the bright hallways and pulses throughout engaging classrooms from nursery through sixth grade. The addition of all-star talent to join the already incredible Lower School and Early Childhood faculty means students are receiving the best in education in a warm, caring and nurturing environment. “The school is alive with spirit and an embrace of the continued on p.13 endless pos-

Name Our Paper Contest! SEE PAGE 3

Est. 1941 - 5702 Volume I | Issue 1

Joseph Wilf Remembered at Bruriah Tehillim-a-Thon Sefer Tehillim Completed Six Times at School-Wide Event

SEE PAGE 5

RTMA Names New Mashgiach Ruchani

Inaugural Issue

New Security Measures Keep Students Safe

Surging Lower School Gives New Voice #Proud2BeJEC

HARAV PINCHAS M. TEITZ ‫זצ״ל‬ Founder

RABBI PINCHAS SHAPIRO Executive Vice President

RABBI ELAZAR M. TEITZ Rav and Dean

STEVEN KARP Executive Director

**JOSEPH WILF Chairman, Council of Governors DR. STEVEN SINGFER President LAWRENCE DIENER MARVIN ROSENZWEIG Vice Presidents BERNARD HALL Treasurer ORA SHEINSON Secretary

Letter from the Editors

ear Readers, Welcome to our first edition! We hope you love reading about all of the amazing things going on in the JEC Lower School, RTMA and Bruriah as much as we loved writing about them. Just look at all of the astounding things going on in school. These articles represent just a small fraction of all the educational, developmental, and fun things happening every day in the classrooms, lunchrooms, gyms, offices and hallways throughout our buildings and campuses. As you read through this first edition you will notice a few interesting things. First, the publication has no name! Instead of creating a name that we felt best represented the visionary, aspirational and future-oriented nature of the JEC, we decided to go nameless and let our readers and the greater JEC community come up with the best name possible for this publication. So, if you are up for the challenge, send us an email to nameourpaper@thejec.org with your suggestion! The winner will have the awesome honor of having their submission gracing the front page of every issue of this publication going forward. In addition, we will recognize the winner in the next issue and provide them with some additional benefits and rewards.

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Second, each division has its own section and front page, with one for the Lower School, one for RTMA and one for Bruriah. For this edition, we printed them in that order, because that is the order of their founding. However, going forward, we are going to rotate the sections with a different order each issue. Third, the front page of this publication includes the words Learn Torah. Love Torah. Live Torah. because those words best articulate the life and mission of the JEC’s illustrious founder Rav Pinchas Mordechai Teitz zt’l and what he envisioned for our institution and greater communities. This paper is a work in progress. We expect it to develop over time. We look forward to including additional sections such as letters to the editor, student columns, feature stories, alumni corner, news from the JEC archives, and much more. Remember, this is a team effort and we encourage you to join us and contribute in any way you can. But most of all, we hope that by reading this paper you will come to Learn Torah, Love Torah, and Live Torah so that you can Make Your Mark by living a life AboveTheCode, remembering that we are always #Proud2BeJEC. Sincerely, The Editors

DR. ELLIOTH FISHKIN ELIEZER FLINT RANDI HERSHKOWITZ DANIELLA HOFFER DAVID KAHANE *MARTIN KNECHT BRIAN NESS ROANNA PASCHER DR. HARRIS SALTZBURG Board of Trustees BRYAN BIER MARJORIE BLENDEN *ERWIN FISCH WILLIAM GOLDFISCHER DAVID HALPERN ELI KRAMER CHARLES KUSHNER MURRAY KUSHNER LARRY PANTIRER LEO STAHL AARON STIER MARK WEISSBERG LEONARD WILF MARK WILF ZYGMUNT WILF RABBI NATHAN ZEMEL Council of Governors *Past President **Deceased

ROBERT HART Controller ANDREW SCHULTZ Director of Institutional Advancement ADINA ABRAMOV Chief Marketing Officer

JEC LOWER SCHOOL RABBI UZI BEER Principal DR. GOLDIE GROSSMAN MRS. FAIGY LEITER Assistant Principals

RAV TEITZ MESIVTA ACADEMY RABBI AMI NEUMAN Principal RABBI NOACH SAUBER Assistant Principal RABBI SHARIR YABLONSKY Associate Principal Middle School

BRURIAH RABBI JOSEPH ORATZ Principal MRS. SHLOMIS PEIKES Associate Principal MRS. SHERRY KRUPKA Assistant Principal MRS. ZEHAVA GREENWALD Coordinator Junior High School

JEWISH EDUCATIONAL CENTER

Achievements and Aspirations Living JEC

By Rav Elazar M. Teitz

n auspicious anniversary in the lifetime of an institution is an incentive for it to take stock -- to look back at its accomplishments and judge whether it has lived up to the purpose for which it came into existence. At the same time, it presents the challenge of looking towards the future. Does the purpose still have the same relevance now as it did then? Are the methods used satisfactory, or do they require modification? The Jewish Educational Center, in mid-June, completed the seventy-fifth year of its existence. Its school has certainly come a long way from its one-teacher, three-grade (kindergarten, first, second), fourteen-student start on the day after Yom Kippur in 1941. From its one-room beginning, it has grown to three divisions offering more years of education than the number of its original population, located in six buildings on two sites, the Elmora complex (actually four distinct connected buildings) and the Bruriah site (two connected buildings). It has facilities, programs and equipment undreamed of in its formative years. However, through all the growth and the changes, its purpose has remained unchanged:

to imbue its students with the dedication to observe the ‫ מצוות‬and the Torah knowledge needed for that observance; to supply them with the education necessary to excel in the world at large; and to accept fully the primacy of Torah in determining their interaction with the secular world -- that when faced with an apparent contradiction between the Torah’s demands and life’s imperatives, to modify the latter to conform to the former, rather than the reverse. Though the world around us has changed almost beyond recognition, that purpose cannot change; it is the very essence of being a Torah Jew, and the JEC remains steadfastly committed to its continuation. The methods, however, can and must undergo constant improvement, and to this, too, the JEC has been and remains fully committed. We shall always strive to be '‫ וקיו ה‬, those whose hope is in the Almighty, whom the ‫ נביא‬assures us will be blessed with renewed strength. We anticipate the future not as an occasion for resting on our laurels, which is a formula for stagnation; but rather to build on our past successes as a springboard to ever greater aspirations -- and with dedication and unremitting effort, we shall, with Hashem’s help, achieve them. Rav Teitz is the Dean of the Jewish Educational Center and Rav Hair of Elizabeth, NJ

A Noble Endeavor By Rabbi Pinchas Shapiro

s you can see from reading the pages of this newspaper, amazing things are happening at the JEC and its family of schools. Page after page of education, energy, creativity, and innovation. The stories contained herein are just a sampling of the incredible teaching, learning and growing that is occurring throughout our classrooms and campuses every day. An unparalleled partnership makes this all possible. The dedication and determination of our faculty and staff is without comparison. The love and engagement of our parent body is beyond measure. The support and involvement of our alumni is the envy of other institutions. And the manifest potential of our outstanding students is unrivaled. What makes the JEC a singularly unique institution is our fidelity to our past and our commitment to the future. The universal acceptance of this dual purpose by students, parents, faculty and staff alike sets us apart

and defines who we are as a school and a family. V’chol banayich limudei Hashem, v’rav shalom banayich, “And all your children shall be taught of Hashem, and there shall be great peace for your children.” (From the Navi Yishaya (54:13) which is lained as part of the haftarah for Parshat Noach.) When Rav Pinchas Mordechai Teitz zt’l founded the Jewish Educational Center he etched words from this pasuk into the sefer depicted on the JEC emblem. There is deep meaning beneath these words and in choosing them as a symbol, our illustrious founder left an enduring lesson that set the course we pursue today. The Gemara in Meseches Brachos 64a enjoins us regarding this pasuk, “Al tikri banayich, elah bonayich,” meaning, “Do not read it children, rather builders.” The Gemara is teaching us that we are not charged simply to be receivers of teaching, accumulators of knowledge, or children that reflect the best of the previous generation. We are not merely inheritors, beneficiaries, and recipients of the past. Rather, we are charged by the Gemara, the prophets, and most of all Hashem to be builders. Content-

By Dr. Steven Singfer

x p r e s s i n g my love, admiration and gratitude for the people of the Jewish Educational Center is no easy task. The parents, students, faculty and staff are all so dear to me. When I arrived at the JEC, I was no more than boy; a young man searching for meaning and direction. Now, so much of my life is defined by and intertwined with the JEC. Our beloved Rav, Rabbi Elazar Mayer Teitz, is my rebbe. He taught me how to learn. His Torah and principles of life guide me today. His illustrious father and our founder encouraged me to take an active role in Jewish communal life from a very young age. He pushed, prodded, and insisted. And I am better for it. Today, the energy and vibrancy of the JEC radiates from the beaming faces of students and parents as they are greeted warmly by smiles and a spirit that anything can be accomplished. This attitude is contagious and translates to students of all ages challenging themselves to reach higher and accomplish more. And we as an institution are doing the same. Torah opportunities are all around us and our students and faculty continue to innovate, adding new avenues and mediums to instill Torah values and knowledge. Whether it is Hallel for Hallel, Chap’ing a Mitzvah, Middot of the Month, night seder, chesed, ment is not our mission. Complacency is not in our DNA. Without question, we are the embodiment of our mesorah -- our great and storied legacy. We proudly carry the banner as Children of Israel. But living in the shadows of the past is not our charge. We too must build and grow; we too must plant, so that others might reap. Our effort today will be the yield of tomorrow. The labor of our present will be the fruit of the future. In appreciating that which the previous generation bequeathed us, we must ask ourselves what we will in turn confer upon our children. With faith in Hashem and the best of our efforts, together, there is nothing that we cannot achieve. We must look out into the horizon and with expansive vision see not what there is, but imagine what might be. Then let us join together in the noble endeavor and become the builders of tomorrow. Rabbi Pinchas Shapiro is the Executive Vice President of the Jewish Educational Center.

or more, we are strengthening our link in the chain of mesorah. We are investing in professional development, advanced training and continuing education for all our faculty and staff. The days of earning a degree and moving on are over. Our students are learning, developing and growing, and so are we. We are all life-long learners. Working with parents and benefactors, we continue to invest and augment our academic offerings. Adding cutting-edge technology to every classroom means more differentiated learning and specialized attention. The expansion of our science and technology offerings means that students of all ages are working with the skills and tools of tomorrow. Teaching the whole student, we have not one, not two, but a team of three professional, licensed mental health doctors on our staff. Together they deliver a comprehensive, integrated program where every student can receive the coaching, guidance, assistance and growth they need to become their best selves. As a school and community, we continue to safeguard our sacred values and build towards the future. Imparting the wisdom of the ages and apply them to a modern world. Encouraging and enabling students to grow, strive and thrive in every aspect of their life. These are the gifts the JEC gave to me and this is what we do for the next generation. Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your support. Thank you for being JEC. Dr. Steven Singfer, RTMA, 1973, and President, Board of Trustees

Name Our Paper!

ou may have noticed that this publication has no name. We d e c i d e d to l e ave that up to you, our readers, as this is a paper that is for all of us and we want your input! If you are up for the challenge, and have some creative ideas to best capture the inclusive, visionary and aspirational flavor of this paper, then please email us your suggestions to nameourpaper@thejec.org. The winning entry will not only win bragging rights but will also be rewarded with recognition in our next issue and some additional benefits that we will announce then. Good luck to everyone and we can't wait to find the winning name!

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JEWISH EDUCATIONAL CENTER

Communicating Success By Rabbi Uzi Beer

ffective partnership between home and school is vital to student growth. Children learn best when their parents, teachers and administrators work together to support them. This collaboration and unity of purposes reduces stress and creates a safe, caring and nurturing environment where students can flourish. This basic fact is one of the seven guiding principles of the JEC Lower School, which were formalized over the summer as a means of fo-

cusing and directing our school now and for the future. When addressing a student’s needs, whether academic, emotional or spiritual, a consistent message from home and school is more likely to resonate. To maintain this partnership, communication is essential. A motto which has been meaningful to me is, “Communicate early, communicate often, communicate kindly, communicate accurately, and communicate proactively.” It is incumbent on the school to communicate to the home any and all aspects of a student’s development. Similarly, insight shared with the school by parents enables the educational professionals to engage and interact with both student and home in the most effective,

Living AboveTheCode By Rabbi Ami Neuman

hen considering the broader Jewish educational landscape, parents might wonder what makes the Rav Teitz Mesivta Academy unique. With all of the schools in North America, students may question what benefit RTMA contributes to young men living in the tri-state area. Ask any of our students these questions and they will tell you plainly: Every student has a voice, and every student matters.

Last year, the faculty and administration of RTMA set out on a mission to further enhance the school. Instead of sitting and debating what we believed would best contribute to the academic, social, and physical well-being of our students without any consideration for their thoughts or opinions, we sat down and met with every single student in our school. In meeting with our students we asked three simple questions: What do you like about RTMA, what do you not like about RTMA, and what do you want to see more of? The answers were thoughtful and the ideas were constructive. The conversations were incredibly productive and the information we gathered was shared with the entire student

constructive and positive way. Collaborating with teachers, specialists, outside professionals and parents provides a common language that maintains levels of consistency with regard to behavior. As proponents of parental partnership, we welcome parental input, and encourage parental advocacy for their children. To further advance these goals, I am forming and personally plan to sit on a number of parent committees. There are a number of procedures that we have established that facilitate proper communication. We meet with teachers regularly to review the social, emotional, behavior and academic progress of each student. We recognize the students who would benefit from additional intervention and then communicate with parents to discuss what we, both school and home, feel will be the best path forward. The next step, which is key to success, is fol-

low up. Throughout the process, we emphasize and reinforce that parents are their child(ren)’s greatest advocates and should never feel “embarrassed,” or think “it’s not worth it,” or decide that they are “not that complaining type,” when reaching out to the school. To the contrary, we welcome it. As a parent, you are your child’s greatest advocate and we need to partner with you to deliver the best possible environment for growth. Ultimately, everyone has the child’s best interest in mind, which is another of our guiding principles. Sharing information can only benefit and enhance each child’s educational experience, which will lead them to excellence. And, to quote another of our guiding principles, we all strive for excellence. Rabbi Uzi Beer is Principal of the JEC Lower School and may be reached at ubeer@thejec.org.

body to hear, see, and discuss. Those conversations lead to profound changes this school year. You will read about many of those changes in the pages of this newspaper, but to me personally, the most profound initiative that has captured our students, parents, faculty and staff, is our mission. Together we live above the code. Guided by the Torah, we passionately pursue excellence through engagement, reflection, and growth. In the classroom and out, in the office and in the home, this mission defines our every action. It is how we make our decisions and it is the guide by which we move forward. For student and teacher alike, we strive every day to reach higher than the day before. We stretch the limits of our imagina-

tion so we can advance a step further on the ground. Our desire for growth is not bound by the limits of our past achievements; it is propelled forward by the embrace of our mistakes. Failure is not cause for abandonment; it is the catalyst for improvement. Every day and in every way, we strive for excellence and work to live above the code. Our commitment is to make each day better than the one before. Nothing we do is by rote. We are deliberate in our intentions and purposeful in our actions. Enjoy reading about how we are living AboveTheCode, join us in this noble endeavor and write me about how it is making a difference in your life. Rabbi Ami Neuman is the Principal of the Rav Teitz Mesivta Academy and may be reached at aneuman@thejec.org.

Succeeding on Life’s Journey By Rabbi Joseph Oratz

hose of us fortunate enough to be in the field of education know that while what we do is important and can have lasting impact on the lives of our students, there is often no immediate gratification. Oh sure we get to see the small victories, the “aha! moments,” the improved grade, or a student’s hard work that pays

off. We believe that our students appreciate our efforts. Many thank us as they leave class and more when they graduate. But every once in a while we get “the letter,” the one in which a student reflects on his or her school experience and how much they gained. I received one such letter recently in which a former student expressed her appreciation for what she gained in her four years at Bruriah. While the letter was addressed to me, the student asked me to share it with the faculty. The letter included many personal thoughts, but there is one line that captures the essence of her feelings. “I have

a deep sense of pride in the fact that I went to Bruriah and an endless appreciation for what those four years did for me.... I couldn’t go another year without being makir tov to those of you, who are responsible for my high school experience.” (quoted with permission) While hearing these sentiments is gratifying for all those who taught this young lady, what we recognize is that the journey to adulthood (and yes, through adulthood) is a series of small victories - and defeats from which we rebound- that lead to our greater success. In her letter, this graduate acknowledged both her successes and her failures

during her high school years and the role her teachers played in guiding her patiently through life’s ups and downs. I often tell my students that our goal is “direction, not perfection.” As Rav Hutner zt”l wrote in his famous letter, it is only through falling down that we can achieve our greatness. In school and in life, as we deal with challenges, however big or small, remember to thank those who are there for you. And remember that life is a marathon. You win as long as you keep getting up to finish the race. And each time you fall, you gain more wisdom and strength for the next leg of the journey. Rabbi Joseph Oratz is the Principal of Bruriah High School and may be reached at joratz@thejec.org.

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JEWISH EDUCATIONAL CENTER

Pr oud2beJEC

Est. 1941 - 5702

Confronting Bullying with Love

Nurturing Environment Leads to Fewer Incidents

Donors Enable Cutting-Edge Learning

or children, school is a friendly, welcoming place where they are free to learn about the world around them through exploration and inquiry. At the JEC Lower School, a whole-student approach to education ensures that the physical, social and psychological well-being of every student is a priority. Nowhere is that approach more apparent than in the school’s anti-bullying initiatives. “Anti-bullying is really misnomer,” explains Lower School Principal, Rabbi Uzi Beer. “While we surely must confront aggression, a pro-growth, caring and nurturing environment fosters a sense of safety and belonging that diminishes incidents of bullying before they even begin.” As such, the Lower School’s anti-bully-

ing efforts are in place long before an incident occurs. Faculty and staff received specialized training before they even enter a classroom. “Before the first bell of the year rings, teachers and staff meet with skilled professionals to learn about the warning signs, how to identify dynamics that can lead to bullying, de-escalating situations, and how to respond in the event continued on p.21 something

Bugle Babies Make Noise New Early Childhood Program Launches

abies now have a class all their own as the JEC is piloting a “mommy-and-me” music program. An initiative of the Early Childhood Department of the JEC Lower School, the program seeks to provide a much-needed service to the broader JEC community. “Children of all ages need interaction of all varieties to help them develop and grow,” said Morah Rivkah Isaacs, Director of the Early Childhood Department. “These classes, filled with songs, games and the presence of other children are really important to these

New Technology Hits the Classroom

youngest students.” Designed for babies of at least six months of age and an accompanying adult, classes are filled with music, tefilah, nursery rhymes, and stories in the form of song. Activities included bubbles, rolling, bouncing, and throwing balls, and more. The program is also designed to help babies develop physically, advancing their fine and gross motor skills. Animal crackers and juice were provided for snack and the adults were able to socialize continued on p.21 together

hanks to the generosity of parent and grandparent donors and the hard work of the JEC Technology Initiative, over 40 new Chrome Books, 15 iPads and a 3-D printer were added to the already robust Lower School technology program. The program, the initiative of several parents, introduces advanced technologies into classrooms for use in every subject. “This was and continues to be a parent-led initiative,” said Director of Development, Mr. Andy Schultz. “We are so grateful to these parents and grandparents for being leaders in helping us provide the best educational opportunities for every child.” The program continues to evolve to meet the growing needs of today’s society as well as the evolution of educational technology. “These devices are ready for use in every class,” said Assistant Principal Dr. Goldie Grossman. “Students use technology to learn and to demonstrate learning in novel ways that are true to contemporary society. These tools are used to teach every subject from limmudei kodesh to limmudi chol, and from mid-

dot modeling to problem solving.” The new hardware is in place throughout school so students benefit from mini-stations in every classroom. The technology allows teachers to provide differentiated and personalized instruction. “Having access to more Chromebooks and iPads allows me to have the whole class engaged in an Incontinued on p.21 ternet or com-

Educating in an Election Year

espite what the pundits might say, election year is a fun and exciting time when students throughout the grades focus on the beauty of democracy, the electoral process, and the important issues facing our nation and society. “When you filter out the noise, there is incredible beauty and importance to our democracy,” said Lower School Assistant Principal Mrs. Faigy Leiter. “We have a privilege long denied to millions of people, and through learning, modeling and discussing, students come to appreciate that gift.” One way students are studying the process is through Project Based Learning. Mrs. BenHaim’s students in 5B worked on a specific elec-

tion unit project to address the driving question: “How can we continued on p.21 help ourselves

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THE JEC LOWER SCHOOL

Yomim Tovim Come Alive for Lower School and Early Childhood Students

tudents ushered in the yomim tovim with unbridled excitement and enthusiasm. Lower School and Early Childhood students prepared for the season throughout the first month of school with special programming, class projects and activities designed to make the halachot and practices of the chagim come alive. “When learning is fun, dynamic and exciting, children come to school eager to explore their world,” said Lower School Principal Rabbi Uzi Beer. “Tanach and Gemara urge us to creatively engage students in the process of learning and that is what we do every day.” Throughout Elul, Rabbi Beer could be found in classrooms blowing the shofar, speaking about Rosh Hashana and delivering age-appropriate messages about teshuva and working on one’s middot. “The kids love him,” said one Early Childhood morah. “When they see Rabbi Beer enter the room, their eyes light up, they rush to stand and enthusiastically greet him because they know they are about to experience something special.” “During Elul, he would come into the class and instantaneously transport the children to an enchanted world where yom tov

was filled with incredible meaning.” Rabbi Beer’s visits were an integral part of a robust pre-holiday curriculum that included items for every special moment in Tishrei. SHOFAR MAKING MADE FUN Rabbi Rosenblum of Living Legacy joined school for a day and showed students how to make a shofar from the beginning of the process all the way to completion. Each class then received a shofar. Children also learned about the various sounds of the shofar, their lengths and representations.

KAPAROT IN FULL SWING The traditional custom of kaparot with chickens was in full swing at the Jewish Educational Center, coordinated by Lower School and RTMA Rebbe Rabbi Moshe Kramer. Students from both the JEC Lower School’s early childhood and elementary divisions, as well as the Rav Teitz Mesivta Academy seized the unique opportunity of “shlugging kaparot” with live chickens ahead of Yom Kippur, males for the boys and females for the girls. Even several teachers got in on the action, and Rabbi Kramer used the occasion to educate students about the safe handling and care of the live birds.

Youngest Students Learn to Speak Hebrew with Bentzi Early Childhood’s Chalav U’Dvash Program Provides Hebrew Immersion

orah Batsheva Kent is a morah with a tafkid: ensure students learn to speak Hebrew as early as possible. And the early results are promising. Morah Batsheva’s classes feature an impressive Hebrew language immersion program called Chalav U’Dvash, designed to help younger students learn to understand and speak Hebrew in the same natural,

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non-technical manner they learned their native language. “This program is really incredible,” said Morah Rivka Isaacs, Early Childhood Director for the JEC’s Lower School. “The natural intuitiveness of the program for the children, combined with Morah Batsheva’s amazing, endearing approach makes learning fun

MACHZOR LITERACY Students and many adults often struggle with the rhythm and meaning of much of the yomim noraim davening. For some, it is the unfamiliar text and for others it is the sheer length and volume of the words and paragraphs. For Lower School students, a comprehensive pre-Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur machzor literacy program was delivered to demystify the machzor and made it accessible to students in appreciable and meaningful ways.

taining presentation showed students the basic parts of the daled minim, conveyed various halachot, and showed students how to determine if a particular min was kosher. SUCCAH DECORATING Students of all grades prepared for Succot by making decorations, learning halachot and understanding the purpose of the holiday.

LULAV LAB Rabbi Rosenblum of Living Legacy returned to school and in a lively and enter-

SIMCHAT TORAH Children of all ages got to experience the joy of Simchat Torah by making model Torahs, singing and rejoicing in the completion and beginning of the Torah reading. Third and Fifth grade rebbe, Rabbi Carlebach gave his students a special lesson in Hakafot and had them practice with special dancing.

and accessible for our students. Through the program, which is an initiative of the Jewish Agency, Morah Batsheva, meets with each Early Childhood division class twice a week and teaches the spoken Hebrew language through an array of songs, dramatizations and special activities. Supported by her assistant, a puppet turtle named Bentzi, Morah Batsheva speaks to students entirely in Hebrew, which the program designers believe is the most effective way for students to learn the language. Fostering a love for the land and people of the State of Israel is also a strong part of Morah Batsheva’s classes. “Through our program, we learn to

experience the excitement of Medinat Yisrael and Israeli culture,” she said. “I hope to share my love for our home country with all of the children.”

JEWISH EDUCATIONAL CENTER

Ab oveT h eC od e

Est. 1955 - 5716

RTMA Leads with New STEM Lab

vancing its position as one of the nation’s leading STEM schools, the JEC unveiled a new state-of-the-art STEM lab at the Rav Teitz Mesivta Academy for the 2016 fall term. The new laboratory is part of the school’s commitment to expanding the leading edge of education and technology and follows last year’s opening of two new STEM labs on the JEC’s Bruriah campus, and significant STEM additions in the JEC’s Lower School division. “Our greatest learning has always been a product of discovery through question and answer, trial and error, and, ultimately, growth,” said RTMA Principal, Rabbi Ami Neuman. “It has been happening in our batei medrash for millennia, and now it is happening in our brand new STEM lab.” In a first for the school, students were directly involved in developing the new lab and in training on its equipment. During the summer, RTMA Seniors Dov Frommer and Etan Ohevshalom both of West Orange, NJ, took time from their vacations and joined with Dr. Jay Smallwood

Springfield Rabbi Expands JEC Role to Include RTMA and Bruriah

of Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education (CIJE), RTMA faculty and to work on the lab and its new equipment. These students now serve as STEM leaders and assist faculty in teaching their fellow students. “The summer internship in the RTMA lab was incredible,” said Ohevshalom. “Instead of continued on p.22 just goof-

Pursuing Higher Education College Guidance in Full Form

hen eighth graders come to a high school open house, the last thing on their mind is what college they are going to, but for Mr. Jeff Frank, that is exactly what he is thinking about. Mr. Frank, RTMA’s Director of College Guidance and Mr. Moshe Glasser, the Assistant Director know that it is never too early to begin preparing for college admissions. “Many people believe eleventh or twelfth grade is the time,” said Mr. Frank. “But in reality, there are things every student can be doing

Rabbi Chaim Marcus Joins RTMA as Mashgiach Ruchani

right now to start preparing, and it is our job to help everyone get ready.” Toward that goal, the college guidance process begins immediately upon a student’s entry to RTMA. At orientation, Mr. Frank and Mr. Glasser present each grade with information they need to make sound choices about college admissions. For ninth and tenth graders, students are charged to begin thinking about how to spend a productive summer, and consider internships, volunteer work, continued on p.23 and aca-

abbi Chaim Marcus, Rabbi of Congregation Israel of Springfield, NJ, and a faculty member in the Bruriah Torah Shel Baal Peh department, joined the leadership of RTMA as the high school’s mashgiach ruchani at the beginning of this academic year, and has already made an outsized impact on the student body. “His dynamic personality, charisma and magnetic feeling of goodness have already reverberated throughout the school,” said RTMA Principal, Rabbi Ami Neuman. “His special style of inspiration and guidance enriches the lives of students and faculty alike.” Rabbi Marcus expressed hope that he might help “continue the great work RTMA is doing in pushing towards excellence.” “As a local Rav, who is also an RTMA parent, I am excited to be working with such an outstanding group of professionals. I hope to help create an “avirah” (atmosphere) of deep ruchniut (spirituality) in the school through classroom teaching, school programs and one

on one schmoozing with the students.” Students, faculty and parents have all expressed appreciation for Rabbi Marcus and the contribution he can make to the school. Rabbi Marcus helped launch RTMA’s “Tuesday Tefila continued on p.22 Thought Pro-

New House Program Launches Students Embrace Growth, Unity and Purpose

eginning a new era, RTMA inaugurated its House System at the start of the academic year. Modeled after prep-school houses and adapted to fit the unique mesivta environment, the House System seeks to build brotherhood, character and growth through affiliation, competition and reflection. “This program is amazing,” said RTMA Senior, Shaya Fishman of Staten Island, NY. “It completely changed the en-

vironment in school.

continued on p.23

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RAV TEITZ MESIVTA ACADEMY

Students Rejoice at Karlin-Stolin and Bobov Simchat Beit Hashoeivas

Over 20 high school students joined their rebbeim and thousands of chassidim singing and dancing the night away during chol hamoed at two Brooklyn Simchat Beit Hashoeivas. “A truly incredible evening,” said RTMA Junior, Nachi Loew of Highland Park, NJ. “This was an experience I wish everyone in school had, I have never seen or done anything like this in my life and it was amazing.” Seemingly out of place without the traditional Chasidic yom tov dress of streimels and kaputas, RTMA students were welcomed warmly as they joined the interlocking circles of dancing and singing at the Karlin-Stolin beit medrash. “We may not have looked the part, but we

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danced like the home team and felt every bit like we belonged,” said Loew. After hours of uplifting ruach at Karlin-Stolin, the students walked to the Bobov tisch where they were welcomed into a sukkah with rafters and bleacher seating and joined thousands in singing Chassidic niggunim they learned on the spot. “The boys were so moved by the evening that they spent the entire bus ride home to New Jersey singing and swaying,” said RTMA Director of Student Life, Rabbi Yisrael Rich. “They felt a brotherhood with these random Jews, and perhaps for the first time realized that we are all connected and welcomed as part of the Jewish people. It was awesome.”

JEWISH EDUCATIONAL CENTER

M a ke You r M a r k !

Est. 1963 - 5724

Bruriah Students Learn About National Issues at Live Debate

Make Your Mark Enhanced GO Encourages Growth

ver 200 student submissions defined the topics discussed at a Town Hall style debate hosted by Bruriah for its high school students in advance of the presidential election. The forum, which focused on issues and not on candidates, was moderated by Bruriah faculty member, Mr. Joel Glazer. The school-wide event was organized by the student activities leadership and the political science class, along with assistance and guidance from faculty and staff. The debate featured two officials representing the Republican and Democratic parties. Assemblyman Gary Schaer of the 36th District, Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly, and parent of a Bruriah graduate, faced off against Nutley Commissioner and former Detective Lieutenant, Steven Rogers. Questions for the party representatives were posed from the center podium by students from all grades. To maintain civility, party representatives answered each question and did not rebut any comment made by the other. “Our girls did an incredible job preparing

serious, thoughtful and meaningful questions about the world in which they live,” said Bruriah’s Associate Principal Mrs. Shlomis Peikes. “The issues they are concerned about provide a real window into how they are feeling about their country, what they are thinking, and how they feel.” The first continued on p.22 question

Parents of Hallel Ariel, a”h Inspire Students to Action

hen the parents of Hallel Ariel mourned the death of their 13-yearold daughter earlier this year, they never imagined standing before nearly four hundred Bruriah students in the days before Rosh Hashana. Nor could they imagine that students would, on their own initiative, create and institute a yearlong project in Hallel’s name. Hallel was kind, compassionate and diligent, with a passion for dance. She possessed a dancer’s poise and confidence, able to befriend those less popular without re-

gard for what others might say. She was a paradigm of positive middot. Hallel’s life was tragically cut short on June 30, 2016 when she was murdered in her bed at home in Kiryat Arba by a 17 year-old Palestinian. With incredible fortitude, Hallel’s parents, Rena and Amichai, addressed the Bruriah student body, faculty and staff in a pre-Rosh Hashana assembly and inspired the audience with their incredible faith in Hashem, strength in the face of devastating adversity, and compassion for others amid continued on p.15 their

ven in a school with nearly 400 students, every individual can shine. That is the guiding principle behind the revamped student-run General Organization at Bruriah High School. Under the banner “Make Your Mark,” the GO encourages every student to reach higher and grow as individuals and a community. The new system incorporates four standing committees that are pillars of the student ac-

tivities at Bruriah into the structure of the General Organization. Vice Presidents for Tzedaka, Chesed, Wordwatch, and the America Israel Student Action Committee (AISAC) have been added to ensure that these activities are supported strongly and broadly. “Bruriah stands on each of these pillars, Chessed, Tzedakah, Israel and Good Speech,” said Director continued on p.22 of Student Life

Students Learn Volunteerism and Give Back

Bruriah Summer Mission Prepares Tomorrow’s Leaders

ight Bruriah students spent eleven days this summer in Charleston, South Carolina learning about social leadership and engaging in volunteerism throughout the city. The young women worked alongside volunteers and professionals engaged in diverse forms of social, environmental and economic service projects. “The mission was designed to give these young ladies continued on p.15 hands-on expo-

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BRURIAH HIGH SCHOOL

Camaraderie and Fun on Bruriah Class Trips

miles, cheers and lots of pictures highlighted the incredible trips taken by Bruriah High School students in recent week. The activities, designed to encourage student bonding outside the classroom, allowed girls to take a break from the rigors of an intense academic schedule and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting.

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For all grades, the trips meant time enjoying nature and the great outdoors. Ninth graders put their agricultural skills to the test by spending an afternoon apple-picking. Sophomores and juniors enjoyed a breezy day at the beach, where they took in some fun in the sun, while seniors practiced their nautical skills paddle-boating. “These trips are critical to individual and

group development,” said Director of Student Life Aliza Blumenthal. “Breaking the mold of daily behavior and providing alternative activities allows students to get to know each other on a whole other level.” Students universally appreciated the break from the classroom and an opportunity to spend time with their teachers and friends outside of

the school building. “Bonding with friends while having fun doing something enjoyable entirely unrelated to school is really great,” said Bruriah senior Ashley Elyaszadeh of Elizabeth, NJ. Similar activities are planned for throughout the school year and students can look forward to a great year in and out of the classroom.

JEWISH EDUCATIONAL CENTER New Security Measures Keep Students Safe

nications equipment for each Lower continued from p.1 School classroom. “The physical and emotional safety and security of our students and staff are our number one priority,” said JEC Executive Director Steve Karp. “We are constantly reviewing our security protocols, consulting with outside experts, and conferring with the Elizabeth police department to ensure that we are reasonably and effectively providing for the safety of our students.” A team of licensed and trained former law enforcement professionals hired by the JEC are now working throughout the JEC system. These skilled guards are tasked with protecting students, faculty, staff and all those who visit JEC buildings. They also protect students and staff during fire drills, security lock-in drills and building evacuations. Students and parents alike have welcomed the new security additions. “It is comforting to know that the JEC manages our safety and security while ensuring that school remains a friendly and welcoming environment,” said one appreciative parent. The school-wide speaker and communications system has been upgraded to allow for enhanced two-way communications in the case of an emergency. Each classroom is equipped with a functioning emergency button which, when activated, rings administrative phones throughout the building and allows the faculty or staff member in the classroom to conduct a hands-free conversation over the speaker system to get assistance in the case of an emergency. This, and the existing centralized broadcast capability of the school office with the entire building, was significantly upgraded and improved. “The effects of these improvements are readily apparent in our daily efforts to guarantee safety and are on full display during

THE JEC LOWER SCHOOL

drills,” said Mr. Karp. “In fact, during our most recent security lock-in drill, our security experts observed that it was without question the best school-wide emergency drill he had ever witnessed.” Thanks to the generosity of Daniel and Morah Lani Krausz, Lower School classrooms and administrators are now equipped with handheld walkie-talkies, allowing for easy communication and quick access in the case of important situations or emergencies. The walkie-talkies have already improved student safety during recess, facilitated efficiency during fire and lock-in drills, and enabled faculty to get assistance without having to leave the classroom. The walkie-talkies have also been used by faculty to request nachat visits from the administration when something extraordinary occurs in class. “These walkie-talkies dramatically boost our entire communications network and I could not be more grateful to Morah Lani and her family for their generous gift,” said Rabbi Beer. “Our staff is truly one-of-a-kind, dedicated to their students in every way.” All JEC security protocols are under constant review. “Safety and security is an evolutionary activity,” said Mr. Karp. “We are always making improvements, upgrades and additions and welcome the community’s continued support in that effort.”

Surging Lower School Gives New Voice #Proud2BeJEC

sibility for every child,” said Board President Dr. Steven Singfer. continued from p.1 “People are calling, emailing and texting non-stop with laudatory praise for the JEC. It is a testament to the extraordinary work of our outstanding leadership and the unparalleled talent we have in every classroom.” Credited with leading the Lower School into a renaissance, newly minted principal Rabbi Uzi Beer demurs and focuses on the people around him. “We simply have the best faculty, staff, students, and parents in Jewish education,” he said. “Walk by any classroom and you feel the energy, love, creativity and sense of discovery in every moment,” he continued. “There is truly a sense that working as a team, collaborating together we can accomplish any goal we set out to achieve.” In addition to Rabbi Beer, the school has introduced Morah Rivkah Isaacs as the new head of its Early Childhood department and with it, an array of new programs that benefit the youngest JEC students and faculty. Mentoring, modeling, coaching and guidance are just a few of the areas where Morah Isaacs is making a real difference in the classroom and the teachers’ room.

“We are not teaching subjects, we are teaching students,” said Morah Rivkah. “When teachers are supported and nurtured, students receive the same care and attention. Looking forward to the potential in everyone and providing them the tools and opportunity to shine, they will thrive and surprise even themselves.” Mrs. Faigy Leiter, who before this year was the masterful general studies teacher for sixth grade girls charged with the herculean task of preparing Lower School ladies for entry into Bruriah, joined the administrative team as an assistant principal where she will continue to teach part-time while contributing her incredible talents to the Lower School program and curriculum. “So many amazing things are happening in the school,” said Mrs. Leiter. “Every day there is something extraordinary and notable enriching the education and life experiences of our students and giving life to our school. This is such an exciting time, I am so happy to be a part of it.” During a recent oneg for the entire Lower School, Rabbi Beer’s bright smile radiated a degree of pride and satisfaction watching the students enjoy learning and strong sense of togetherness. But he has no time to revel in success. “The amazing thing about reaching for the stars is that there is always something more to achieve. I am #Proud2BeJEC,” he said before adding with a grin, “I know you are too.”

BRURIAH HIGH SCHOOL Joseph Wilf Remembered at Bruriah Tehillim-a-Thon

the students, Mr. Wilf added, “He was so proud of his association with the continued from p.1 Jewish community, but particularly the JEC and Bruriah, and there can be no greater honor to his memory than all of you sitting you here today.” Speaking with his mother, Susie Wilf, listening on, he concluded, “You are the future. You are the future of the Jewish community… And I know that that always made my father proud every day of his life.” During the one-hour program, that included inspirational words from Bruriah Principal, Rabbi Joseph Oratz and Director of Student Life Mrs. Aliza Blumenthal, each student was assigned a perek of Tehillim. Rabbi Oratz opened the program by recalling the inspiration and influence of longtime Bruriah principal, Mrs. Chaya Newman, a’h, and delved into the meaning of one pasuk from Mrs. Newman’s favorite perek of Tehillim, 27. He then explained the dedication of this year’s tefilah. “When we began planning this year’s Te-

hillim-a-Thon, dedicating it to the late Mr. Joseph Wilf was the immediate thought,” said Rabbi Oratz. “Mr. Wilf was the paradigm of class and grace. A lover of the Jewish people and a supporter of Torah everywhere,” he explained. At the levaya in August, his son Mark said it best, ‘He was a great man, because he was a good man.’ That is something we can all learn from.” During her remarks, Mrs. Blumenthal passionately and personally recounted that as a Bruriah student in the 1990s, she received her assigned chapter of Tehillim and explained how it remains an important and powerful source of spiritual strength during times of profound grief and joy. Mrs. Blumenthal urged students to take their perek of Tehillim and make it their own, carrying it with them always, and to use it whenever they felt the need to call out to Hashem in need or in thanks.

The Tehillim-a-Thon also recalled the Koby Mandell Foundation and specifically, Camp Koby, as well as Project Renewal, through which Bruriah chemistry teacher Mrs. Selma Eis donated a kidney to a young man from Israel several years ago. Mrs. Eis spoke to students about her personal sacrifice and the determination to do all one could to help another person in need. She also noted that while the students were too young to even contemplate organ donation, it was most appropriate for them to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle both in body and mind.

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BRURIAH HIGH SCHOOL Students Learn Volunteerism and Give Back

sure to the world of volunteerism,” said Bruriah faculty continued from p.11 member Mrs. Amy Tropp, who along with Coach Susan Rifkin led the mission. “The mission empowered our graduates to see all the opportunities around us to help other people. Together, we actualized the lessons of middot, compassion and leadership that we studied together in the classroom.” The mission included a day separating and categorizing donated food at the Low Country Food Bank, where the Bruriah volunteers met the organization’s stern project manager, Mr. Wilson. As time passed, Mr. Wilson’s tough demeanor melted away when he saw the sincerity, enthusiasm and fun that the mission volunteers brought to the job. Certainly it helped that the group managed to sort and organize an astounding 11,000 pounds of donated food and other household items. “The girls turned each meaningful encounter into an opportunity to learn something, do good, and have fun at the same time,” said Coach Rifkin. Volunteers worked with the Low-Country Orphan Relief Center sorting and bagging clothes for low-income and foster children, and did their part to keep the city clean by collecting litter with Keep Charleston Beautiful. “On the court, we preach that there is a place for everyone and everyone has a way to contribute,” explained the coach. “This summer, the girls saw that the world works the same way, and they have a lot they want to contribute.” Another day was dedicated to building an oyster reef with the South Carolina Oyster Restoration and Enhancement organization. The reef creates a safe habitat for sea life and acts as a natural filtration system, purifying South Carolina drinking water. The mission participants also learned about social leadership in a number of informative and engaging workshops and lectures. “Eleven days. That’s all it took,” said Bruriah graduate Sara Schatz. “I entered Charleston as an oblivious young adult, fresh out of high school, not knowing much about issues outside my front door, and I left having gained knowledge and experience that can put me on the path to fulfilling my responsibilities of tikkun olam.” Bruriah Summer Mission 2016 participants included: Ariel Ezra and Chana Silver of Elizabeth; Meira Geyser, Doria Meiseles and Miri Nash of Passaic; Sara Schatz of Teaneck; Chana Stanislavsky of Fair Lawn, and Yvette Teitelbaum of Highland Park. The program was coordinated and led by Bruriah faculty Amy Tropp and Susan Rifkin, together with Laura Menyuk, Director of Service Learning at American Jewish Society for Service.

Parents of Hallel Ariel, a”h Inspire Students to Action

own suffering. “It is difficult to comprehend the continued from p.11 Ariel’s fortitude and depth of their faith; to agree to speak to a room full of teenage girls in a school similar to the one Hallel would have attended this year as a freshman,” said Bruriah Athletics Coach Susan Rifkin. The Hallels shared a clear message that was echoed in a separate address they also delivered at the JEC’s Adath Israel shul. “Our people have and will always be persecuted,” they said. “B’chol dor va’dor. We don’t know the reasons behind each tragedy. Our faith has to be such that we see something good in every situation.” This theme reverberated in the hearts and minds of students throughout the school. “The fact that these parents went through such a horrible tragedy that would normally push people away, and

still they stand strong and committed to their faith, community and the State of Israel, is inspiring,” said Bruriah senior Tziona Kamara of Passaic, NJ, who serves as Vice President of the Student Government America Israel Student Action Committee. “They kept telling us how holy, special, safe and wonderful Israel is, and encouraged us to visit and support the country.” Inspired by the Ariels and in an effort to take positive action in honor of Hallel’s memory, Bruriah students unveiled an initiative on Rosh Chodesh MarChesvan to dedicate the monthly school-wide recitation of the Hallel tefilah to Hallel Ariel. Students committed themselves to daven and sing the tefilah with the inspiration of Hallel Ariel’s amazing life in mind. “This is what our students do, and I am so proud of them,” said Bruriah Principal, Rabbi Joseph Oratz. “They took a single moment of inspiration and turned

it into a year-long commitment to spiritual growth.” The Ariels visited the United States on a 10-day speaking tour to Jewish communities around the country, and Bruriah was the only school on their itinerary. The Ariel’s trip was coordinated by Rabbi Moshe Rothchild of Efrat, an RTMA alum, who in introducing the Ariel’s urged the Bruriah students to proactively seek out opportunities to do chesed. Bruriah’s Director of Student Life, Mrs. Aliza Blumenthal, who coordinated the Ariel’s visit to Bruriah, was presented with an original painting by Kiryat Arba artist Baruch Nachshon that was dedicated by the artist to Hallel’s memory. Inspired by the Ariel’s and her own sense of responsibility cultivated during her time as a Bruriah student, Mrs. Blumenthal in turn gifted the beautiful work of art to Bruriah.

RAV TEITZ MESIVTA ACADEMY

Thunder Get New Scoreboards

hen RTMA Thunder teams take to the home court and rink this season, their on-court skills will be complemented by newly-installed, state-of-the-art scoreboards. The boards were generously donated by a recently formed athletic Booster Club comprised of former players and Thunder enthusiasts. “These boards are amazing,” said Thunder starting Guard and RTMA Junior Yishai Arnheim of Highland Park, NJ. “The old boards got the job done, but these boards make me feel like I am playing in a real arena.” The boards are a dramatic improvement and upgrade over the old scoreboards that had long passed their prime. In addition to keeping time and score, the new systems will list individual player numbers and stats as well as multiple other data points, including

penalty time for hockey games. The system also comes equipped with the ability to display a shot clock for basketball, although the Yeshiva League currently does not make use of a shot clock. The new boards were the initiative of Thunder head coach, Avi Borenstein in collaboration with the Booster Club. For more on the Booster Club and Coach Borenstein, see our next issue. Thunder sports benefit from the continued support and interest from parents, alumni

and former players. With many upgrades in the pipeline and opportunities for supporters to get involved, Coach Borenstein predicts great things for the Thunder program.

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THE JEC LOWER SCHOOL

Commemorating 9/11

ow do you commemorate an historic event that happened before you were born, but for which history itself has not yet contextualized? This is the challenge for elementary school students, all of whom were born after the events of September 11, 2001. At the JEC Lower School, the day was one of monumental significance as students learned about life in America prior to that date and what was lost because of it. Students experienced a day of reflection, introspection and strength rooted in shared emotion and community. The day focused on pride in America, the freedom our country provides, our ability to be ourselves, and the responsibility to be inclusive and unified. Programs throughout the day focused on these themes and created ways for students to express their sense of freedom and unity. To give the day more tangible meaning, and create a singular communal symbol, every student in Grades 1 through 6 took part in using Lego to build a Freedom Tower. The tower includes bricks with the names of each student, representing each of his or her unique strengths, interspersed with words that describe freedom. The beautiful red, white and blue monument is on display in the Lower School hallway. To learn more about the impact of 9/11

on the American consciousness, Grades 4-6 joined for an assembly and listened to various staff members describe their memories of that day. Guest speaker, Mrs. Wendy Lanski, who was in the Twin Towers on the day of the attacks, spoke about her experiences at the World Trade Center that fateful day. She described the ‘small miracles’ experienced, and highlighted the unity and kindness that characterized people’s responses. “A tragedy of this magnitude is so difficult to understand,” said veteran teacher Mrs. Suzi Kaplan. “Focusing our attention on all the stories of courage and heroism helped us feel unified and gave our students a stronger sense of community.

Guiding Our Youngest Students Bruriah Graduate Returns to Join Guidance Team

eginning in September, Dr. Rebecca Mischel, a Bruriah Graduate, joined the JEC Lower School support team, as the Director of Guidance for the JEC Lower School. “Dr. Mischel is an amazing addition to our Guidance Department,” said Dr. Akiva Perlman, Director of Guidance for the JEC family of schools, including Bruriah, RTMA and the JEC Lower School. “Her depth of knowledge, clinical experience and approach to the craft of educational guidance means students and faculty are getting an incredibly gifted resource.” Dr. Mischel has a passion for empowering student growth. She brings to the JEC, a curriculum she developed focusing on the

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Enhancing Parent-School Partnership

social-emotional development of children that she has taught in several day schools and summer camps throughout the tristate area. “Dr. Mischel’s dynamic personality, strong communication skills, warmth and care for children is felt by all who interact with her,” exclaimed Lower School Principal Rabbi Uzi Beer. Dr. Mischel holds a B.A. from Barnard College and received her doctorate in school clinical psychology from Yeshiva University’s Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. Prior to joining the JEC Lower School, Dr. Mischel served for six years as the school psychologist at Yeshivat Ben Porat Yosef in Paramus, NJ.

new communications channel between parents and the JEC Lower School has been developed and deployed this year to great effect. Weekly newsletters that parents receive each week before Shabbat are part of a concerted, school-wide effort to strengthen the collaboration between classroom and home. The addition of “Nachas Notes,” allows parents to share news of how the lessons of school are practiced at home. “Effective communication is the key to any relationship and it is the foundation of an effective parent-school partnership,” said a key faculty member. “When flourishing, this relationship dramatically improves the entire student experience and helps us do our job better.” Weekly newsletters, long the hallmark of classes in the Early Childhood Department, are now being sent out by the other grades as well.

“We are opening as many channels of communication with parents as possible,” said Rabbi Beer. “We are proactively including parents in the conversation about what is happening in the classroom, to discuss with their children on Shabbat, or just to let them know what his happening in school by sharing news, insights and photos on a weekly basis. “The reality is that parents and teachers are partners together in their children’s experiences, and we need to communicate with one another,” he concluded. The Lower School’s new newsletter program works on a rotation basis. Each week, parents receive one newsletter prepared by a different department. Elementary parents will read one week about general studies, the next week about Judaic students, and the third week parents will receive a copy of the JEC Lower School Scoop, a newsletter highlighting key happenings, themes and tidbits from the school. “I love the new format,” said one parent. “It keeps me up to date about what is happening and helps me stay in touch with my children about what is going on in school.” Working together with parents, the JEC Lower School is leading more people in being #Proud2BeJEC.

JEC Lower School Sends Shana Tova Love to the IDF

ozens, of smiles, hearts, flags and good wishes for a sweet New Year sent by our youngest students in the JEC’s Early Childhood division were delivered to soldiers serving in the Israeli Defense Forces in time for Rosh Hashana. “The children learned about the amazing Jewish soldiers who protect the people and land of Israel every day. They were sad that many of the soldiers would not be able to spend yom tov with their families, so they wanted to make sure that those soldiers knew they were loved even by those far away,” said Morah Sarah Karp, whose class sent cards to the soldiers. The cards, pictures, drawings, and scribbles were hand delivered by longtime JEC community member Mrs. Cheryl Abramowitz, who initiated the Rosh Hashana card project two years ago. “It is an amazing lesson for our

kids, and a meaningful gift to the soldiers,” remarked Abramowitz. “We think of soldiers as rough and tough men, but many of them are just boys not much older than our high school seniors. For them to receive these cards, and know how important they are to their youngest supporters 6,000 miles away, brings a smile to their faces and a tear to many an eye,” she said. JEC Lower School Principal, Rabbi Uzi Beer, who also served as a soldier in the IDF said, about the initiative that it was, “something moving and inspirational.”

RAV TEITZ MESIVTA ACADEMY

Bolstering Security One Mezuzah at a Time

Middle School Updates

As the FBI searched the Elizabeth area for Ahmad Rahami in connection with several bombings in the tri-state area, and the JEC bolstered security in and around all of its buildings with increased guards and protection, Mr. Dror Frommer had a different kind of security in mind. “The Jewish guard is the Mezuzah,” said the Livingston resident. Frommer, a native of Haifa, Israel and the father of RTMA Senior, Dov Frommer, emailed the JEC, “I am not sure when the school’s mezuzahs were checked last, but it’s certainly a good time in Elul.” Working closely with JEC Executive Director, Mr. Steve Karp, Frommer is orchestrating the systematic checking of every mezuzah in the JEC. Removing a small group of mezuzahs at a time, Frommer was accompanied by a group of students who participated in the process and learned critical, practical halachot about mezuzah. “It was really cool to take down a mezuzah, review the parshiot and be a part of this process,” said one student. “We pass by hundreds of times a day, but how often do we really stop and think about the power

JOINT CHAVRUSA PROGRAM TAKES FLIGHT Students in the RTMA Middle School got another opportunity to enhance their learning with the launching of the Joint Chavrusah program. Through the program, sixth and eighth grade boys are paired together to learn. At the inaugural session, the room was buzzing with energy and excitement as the boys delved into the halachos of yom tov. Students enjoyed learning from each other and growing together. When asked, all of the boys voted unanimously to continue this Joint Chavrusa Program.

and importance of a mezuzah?” Through his generous financial contribution, Frommer is enabling the JEC to have each mezuzah checked by a reputable local sofer. “This is an incredible gift to the physical and spiritual wellbeing of our students and the entire JEC family,” said Mr. Karp. “I cannot tell you how excited we are to be doing this.” Inspired by Mr. Frommer’s initiative, a comprehensive mezuzah practicum and age-appropriate review of hilchot mezuzah is being designed and implemented across all JEC schools to coincide with the removal, checking and replacement of the school’s mezuzahs.

T3 Trip a Day of Inspiration

he RTMA Middle School’s annual TTT Trip (Teshuva, Tefila, Tzedaka ) took place in gorgeous weather as students joined hundreds of other people saying Tashlich at Ceaser’s Bay in Brooklyn, NY. It was uplifting to be part of such a large group of Jews standing by the water and davening to Hashem. At the “Toys for You” stop on the trip, the boys searched in groups for the just right gifts for children of Ohel. A number of eight graders set an example for all students by using their Bar Mitzvah money to purchase a number of extra special presents that they

felt the children of Ohel would greatly enjoy. The highlight of the day was joining the Noverminsk High School for Mincha, where students got to daven with intensity, hear a short d’var Torah from the yeshiva’s principal, and have a private audience with the Noverminsker Rebbe’s son, Rabbi Yisroel Perlow. At each stop on the trip, the students were asked: “Which Yeshiva are you from? All the boys are so well behaved!” The boys were bursting with school pride and appreciated the great kiddush Hashem.

With so much happening in the RTMA Middle School, it is hard to keep up. Here are some highlights:

The Do-It-Yourself club learned how to repair and change flat or damaged tires. They used a jack to raise the car, learned how to search for any holes, then fill and patch them up. BRIDGING THE GAP

SCI-TECH FRIDAY RTMA Middle School students participating in Sci-Tech Friday get to experience a rare opportunity to join Mrs. Robyn Brewer, RTMA’s dynamic Science Department Chair, in the high school Sci-Tech lab. In the first session, students got to explore electricity and engineering, learned how to generate light from an electrical source and to modify the colors of the light that was produced. CLUBS START WITH A BANG On alternating Thursdays, RTMA Middle School students can choose to focus on a subject outside of their core curriculum to explore and learn more about. This year, RTMA introduced two new clubs: Cooking and the Do-It-Yourself. The Cooking Club started the year with a Rosh Hashana theme and made a Simanim Salad and apple cobbler. Students worked hard cutting and slicing the apples, while the sweet aroma wafted through the hallways causing many students to wish they had joined the club themselves.

Eighth graders partnered together in the year’s first engineering design challenge. Students were tasked with designing a bridge out of crafts, sticks, and glue, and learned about the forces of gravity, compression, and tension, all while exploring the iterative process of design. Teams were tasked with defining the problem, brainstorming ideas, creating solutions, testing them, refining their ideas, and ultimately producing a sound bridge solution. The teams were judged on both bridge structure and the engineering design process. While everyone participating in the challenge won, special recognition goes to Dovid Engel, Yisrael Gold, Benny Gluck, Elazar Milstein for completing the best project. (Check back next issue for even more from the RTMA Middle School)

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BRURIAH HIGH SCHOOL

Junior High Updates Beginning of Year Program

The Junior High of Bruriah Student Organization theme this year, “Business,” was introduced by Mrs. Frumie Greenfeld with a fun, team-building program. The girls divided into groups and were given the name of a company. Each team decorated a cake connected to the company and generated a slogan related to JHB. Some notable slogans included: “JHB is the best….everyone knows that!” (GEICO), “Our TARGET is to get good grades,” and, “Developing new WAZE to learn.” SWIM TRIP The weather was picturesque for JHB students as they spent the day swimming and enjoying time outside with donuts and games. It was a trip designed for students to have fun with classmates in a relaxed setting. EDUCATIONAL INNOVATION ON DISPLAY FOR PARENTS Meet the Teacher evening at JHB was

Bruriah Receives Special Mention at Massive Event

phenomenal with parents receiving an sampling of the JHB experience. Parents met the 7th and 8th grade teachers, learned about the classes and goals, and launched the home-school collaboration. In a unique experience for parents, the Chumash “flipped instruction” enabled parents to watch an informative video for “homework” and use the time in school for an engaging collaborative experience similar to the manner in which students are now learning. YOM IYUN “The Power of Speech” was the theme for an inspirational and enlightening Yom Iyun at the JHB. Students joined peers in the groups and had the opportunity to learn about the different types of speech. From complimenting to saying the truth, the message was clear - words can be used to build and create positivity. A fun game of telestrations and an inspirational video wraped up the memorable program. (Check back next issue for even more from the Junior High at Bruriah)

S.O. Takes Shape with Campaign and Elections

ith election season on everyone’s mind, the Junior High at Bruriah buzzed with excitement. Students running for Student Organization of Activities campaigned with signs, songs and final presentations to their peers. The enthusiasm, humor, and creative ideas presented were as diverse as the candidates themselves. Whether an interactive Harry Potter game-show, a dance, or a multi-media presentation, everyone was caught up in a whirlwind of “election fever.”

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Students Join Thousands for Night of Inspiration

“I am so proud of all our candidates who put time and energy into campaigning,” said Mrs. Frumie Greenfeld, Director of Programming for the Junior High. “It is so incredible to see their talent and creativity.” Congratulation so the new S.O. Members Sara Rosenwald of Elizabeth, Samantha Gross of West Orange, Atarah Mandel of Elizabeth, Rebecca Henner of Hillside, and Shoshi Cantor of Hillside. Being part of S.O. provides students with an opportunity to continued on p.19 develop their

n the eve of Shabbat Shuva, over forty students and faculty joined thousands of Jewish women at Ohr Naava’s Eleventh Avinu Malkeinu Night of Awakening. The evening of inspiration included rousing speeches from world renowned personalities who urged the audience to make every moment count in the New Year through serving Hashem and the rest of humanity. The sold-out Avinu Malkeinu event held over forty seats in special reserve for Bruriah students and each ticket -- which retails for $50 – were snapped up by students eager to spend the evening between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur in a meaningful way. “Our girls eagerly seek opportunities for growth,” said Bruriah Principal, Rabbi Joseph Oratz. “They gravitate towards programs from which they can draw inspiration and meaning, and then turn around and figure out a way to turn inspiration into activation and implementation in their own lives.” Rabbi Zechariah Wallerstein, Founder and Director of Ohr Naava, provided a special invitation to Bruriah students to attend the event, and specifically welcomed the Bruriah contingent during his keynote address. “I am so glad that I was able to go,” said Bruriah Senior, Meira Gurell of Teaneck, NJ. “This is truly a life altering event that thousands of people attend each year and it is

amazing that Bruriah was singled out to go.” Rabbi Eli Mansour and Charlie Hararay also addressed the capacity crowd, delivering their Yamim Noraim messages. “The speeches were incredible. They really helped me enter Yom Kippur with the right frame of mind,” remarked Bruriah Junior, Aliza Kurtz of Passaic, NJ. Each speaker presented an important and thought-provoking message in a very unique way. “The girls were entertained and engaged throughout the entire program,” said Bruriah faculty member and grade advisor Ms. Leora Reichenberg. “There was a strong sense of community and solidarity in the room, and it was a very special opportunity to be part of such a committed group of people.” Bruriah secured the tickets to the event and offered them to students at a steep discount on a first come first serve basis. The school also arranged for transportation to and from the event for students attending. The school hopes to continue to be able to offer such opportunities to more students in the future. “This is such a special and meaningful evening for thousands of women,” said Mrs. Aliza Blumenthal, Director of Student Life. “The fact that Rabbi Wallerstein and Ohr Naava singled out Bruriah is a testament to our girls and Bruriah’s well-earned reputation.”

RAV TEITZ MESIVTA ACADEMY

Shabbaton Brings Students and Rebbeim Together

othing forges camaraderie and unity like spending a spirited Shabbos together. With classes resuming after a long summer break, incoming freshmen joined returning high school students for the year’s first RTMA shabbaton. “Shabbos is a singular gift from Hashem,” said RTMA Principal Rabbi Ami Neuman. “To keep it, observe it, and celebrate it together infuses life with meaning. High School is about finding that meaning and using it to define a life of happiness and purpose.” Students and staff boarded buses bound for the sprawling grounds of Camp Dora Golding for a full weekend itinerary packed with Torah, davening, athletics, games and food. “It was awesome to be back with my friends,” said RTMA Sophomore, Josh Schanzer of Highland Park, NJ. “I love the shabbaton, the ruach is amazing and the achdus it builds carries through to the rest of the year!” Recreational activities included swimming, sports and boating. Athletic competitions between Houses (See related story on Houses in this issue) added spirit to the Friday afternoon’s program, with one hockey game reserved for students to face off with their principal, Rabbi Neuman, who is an avid hockey player. “The Shabbaton is an important time for students, faculty and staff to bond and forge relationships outside of school,” said Rabbi Yisroel Rich, Director of Student Activities.

S.O. Takes Shape with Campaign and Elections

leadership skills as they assist Mrs. Greenfeld in planning and continued from p.18 o rg a n i z i n g trips and programs. Getting involved in extra-curricular and outreach programs is an integral component of JHB. The JHB leadership works hard to ensure that all students have an opportunity to participate in the organization and administration of activities. “When our girls get involved in these pro-

Setting the tone for the entire year, the theme of the weekend was Shlomo Hamelech’s axiom, “Sheva yipol tzadik v’kam,” or “The righteous fall seven times, but still rise.” The learning and divrei Torah shared over the weekend focused on encouraging students and faculty to value their mistakes and learn from them. “In life, we learn best from our mistakes,” explained Assistant Principal Rabbi Noach Sauber. “We do not fear our mistakes; we are not paralyzed by them. To the contrary, we embrace them, we learn from them, and we use them to move forward and reach higher.” Speaking during the Shabbat program, seniors Yair Shavrick and Ben Kogos urged those present to grow through failure, chal-

lenge, and struggle. And to recognize that life’s best lessons are learned through taking life’s lessons and building on them. To help students set a high spiritual tone, Shabbat began with an uplifting Carlebach-style Kabbalat Shabbat led by Rabbi Neuman, with students leading davening and laining throughout the rest of Shabbos. “Far from a day of restriction and limitation, Shabbos done right, is a liberating, joyous time when students can find inner balance, truly enjoy each other’s company, and connect with Hashem and one another in ways impossible during the week,” said Director of Guidance, Dr. Akiva Perlman. An amazing seuda followed, capped off by an incredible oneg that carried late into the night. Students spent hours singing, talking, learning and schmoozing with their rebbeim and each other. The informal setting led to deep and meaningful conversations, which fostered further unity and growth. “During the oneg, the barriers came down,” said RTMA Senior Mordechai Sheinson of Hillside, NJ. “We were able to sing, talk and bond in a way only possible in such a setting. It was really special.”

The unity built throughout the weekend was typified by an unfortunate sports injury, when RTMS senior, Alec Seidman broke his foot playing ball on Friday. Instead of taking a ride home from the hospital, Seidman chose to return to the Shabbaton, where his friends happily carried him around from activity to activity the entire weekend. “Who would want to go home and miss the Shabbaton?” asked Seidman. “My friends are the best in the world. They did not want me to miss anything either, so they offered to literally carry me on their backs the entire Shabbos. It was insane.” Shabbos closed with a full-on musical havadalah led by Dr. Perlman, whose vocals demonstrated why he was a star member of the Miami Boys Choir in his youth, and accompanied by Rabbi Neuman, who is known throughout the northeast for playing a mean guitar. “The purpose of the Shabbaton is to have fun in a meaningful way. To foster camaraderie and help set the tone for the year. Engagement, reflection and growth,” said Rabbi Neuman. That is where we are headed, and this weekend was a great beginning.” grams, it empowers them,” said Mrs. Zehava Greenwald, Junior High Coordinator. “They develop life-long skills such as confidence, time-management, prioritization, and collaboration. There is nothing more rewarding than watching students feel happy and good about themselves.” Activities include after-school art and cooking clubs, the Middle School basketball team, Torah Bowl, newsletter, the SPIRIT team that provides cheering for athletic games, JAISAC (Israel awareness), Big Sister Program, JFS food packaging, and so much more.

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Alumni in Israel

Shira Allen, Bruriah, 2016

hen Elul and Tishrei come around, the only place I want to be is Israel. The journey through those months starts with Selichot. At midnight on one of my first Thursday nights in Israel, a friend and I decided to go to the Kotel (because what else would we do on a Thursday night in Jerusalem), and as we made our way through the crowd of people, we couldn’t help wonder why 2,000 other people were as crazy as we were. Soon enough we realized that the sefardim had already begun saying sleichot at the beginning of Elul! There was something incredibly uplifting about being surrounded by hundreds of people, all from different backgrounds, observance levels and dress, all pouring out their hearts to their Father in Heaven. Before we knew it, we reached Rosh Hashana. The entire country was in the spirit—even the buses took part, with “Shana Tova” flashing on their screens. (Don’t be confused, the bus still goes to Har Nof and Shana Tova is not a stop on the line!) Aseret Yimei Teshuva came and went, and suddenly, we were standing before the Ultimate Judge on Yom Kippur. In addition to being a beautiful culmination of 40 days of intense seminary-induced introspection and repentance, Yom Kippur is a unique holiday on a national level. The entire country shuts down. Imagine being able to sit down comfortably in the middle of the busiest intersection you know. It’s unreal. I had the privilege of having an unbelievably uplifting davening in Migdal Oz. When I looked around at the girls, I saw some dancing and some crying and I couldn’t help but think of one of the ideas we mentioned last year when learning L’Dovid with Mrs. Neuberger. She explained how in the first part of the mizmor the author expresses confidence, serenity and major bitachon b’Hashem, whereas in the second part he expresses fear, loneliness and confusion. There are many perakim in tehillim that begin with the au-

20 NOVEMBER 2016 | CHESHVAN 5777

thor feeling lost and end with Hashem’s salvation, but one of the things we can learn from the particular order of this mizmor is that just like the Yamim Noraim, life is a roller coaster. We smile, we cry, we dance, we moan, and through it all, we pray. Not five days later, we put on our fancy clothes once again and went out to eat in the sukkah. Here are a few reasons Sukkot is so incredible in Israel: firstly, it’s not freezing! In fact, depending on where you are in Israel, you might even need a fan in your sukkah! Secondly, families can actually hang pictures and paper chains in their sukkot because it doesn’t rain. Sukkot is also the most visual of the shalosh regalim. Everywhere you walk, you see sukkot—outside of every restaurant, on every mirpeset, in every hotel and every mall. Because its OUR country and OUR holiday. Another great thing about sukkot if you are a shana ba’aretz student, is that all of your friends are off too!! My class organized a reunion in gan ha’atzmaut during chol hamoed!! Even Ms. Carl stopped by! It was so wonderful to be with old friends and to laugh about old times. Mostly, on sukkot in Yerushalayim, one truly feels that he/she is fulfilling the mitzvah of aliya l’regel. On Hoshana Raba morning, as one walks to the Kotel for vatikin, he will be joined by thousands of fellow Jews pouring out of each alleyway, all heading to the makom hamikdash. However well I attempt to describe the experience of being in Israel during the chaggim, you will never get the full picture until you come yourself. Consider it strongly because, believe me, there is no place you would rather be. Shira Allen is from Highland Park, NJ, is a Bruriah Graduate, Class of 2016 and served as G.O. President during her senior year. She is currently spending her year of study in Israel at Migdal Oz.

Alumni in Israel

Azriel Kimmel, RTMA, 2015

ow! I can’t even describe what these past couple of weeks have been like in Israel. Sukkot in Yerushalyim is like none other. On Chag, when I was walking down the street, all I heard were the voices of Zemirot emanating from the Sukkah. In the morning, you saw everyone walking down the street with their Lulav and Etrog. I felt like this is where I am meant to be, that here, Eretz Yisroel, is home. However, this passion started way before I even went to Israel. RTMA instilled in me a sense a Zionism and love for Eretz and Medinat Yisroel since day one. Our rebbeim and teachers gave over their love for Torah and Eretz Yisroel, and showed us that these two things need to be a central focus of our lives. There is nothing better than when I run into a JEC classmate at the Tachana Merkazit, or when I spend shabbos at a random family in Israel and discover that he too is a JEC Alumni. Even though I graduated, I am still part of the RTMA family. I love speaking to my rebbeim from high school and telling them about all my wonderful experiences here. One of the highlights of everyone’s year is when Rabbi Parnes visits, and we have a huge RTMA reunion at Cafe Rimon. Everyone from Yeshiva students to Alumni that are

currently serving in the IDF attends and it is truly an amazing experience. Azreil Kimmel is from Hillside, NJ and is an RTMA graduate from the class of 2015, currently spending Shana Bet learning at Yeshivat Mevaseret Tziyon.

BRURIAH HIGH SCHOOL

9/11 Victims Remembered on 15th Yartzheit

Bruriah Receives Special Mention at Massive Event

hen the quiet of a beautiful September day was shattered by terrorists, Mr. Jeff Cohen, now of Fair Lawn, NJ, was at the World Trade Center. His tale of survival and rebirth was shared with some 400 students and staff at Bruriah’s annual 9/11 commemoration, which was held this year on the 23rd day of Elul, the Hebrew date of the horrific attacks. “9/11 is a day filled with meaning for so many Americans,” said Bruriah Principal, Rabbi Joseph Oratz. “The Hebrew date of those tragic events has an additional profound significance for us as Jews and Americans.” In a short but powerful presentation, Mr. Cohen continued on p.21 recounted

THE JEC LOWER SCHOOL New Technology Hits the Classroom

Bugle Babies Make Noise

continued from p.7

at the end of the program. The spirited and joyous atmosphere delighted babies and adults alike, as the positive and energetic atmosphere brought participants from throughout the greater JEC community. The program takes place once a week on Tuesdays from 9:30-10:15am and is for children ages six months to three years. Although the initial class was at capacity, coordinators say that the program still has available spaces and

Confronting Bullying with Love

interested parties may contact Assistant Principal, Mrs. Faigy Leiter for more information at fleiter@thejec.org or 908-3554850.

unfortunate does happen. “ We f o s ter a social continued from p.7 eco-system in school where every child feels comfortable amongst their peers and teachers,” said Beer, “and that is key to their success in every aspect of development, educationally, physically and socially.” Building a wholesome community is what the Lower School focuses on from start. Walking down the hall of the Early Childhood Department middot are on full display through behavioral modeling, projects, and general instruction. “These amazing little people are learning everything about the world around them,” said Department Director Morah Rivka Isaacs. “We reach them in multiple ways so that they see positive behavior, develop conflict resolution skills, and understand themselves in relationship to others.” Part of the Lower School approach also focuses on empowerment. Teachers are empowered to empower their students to further their sense of self-worth and self-esteem, important skills for any person at any stage of life.

As a new addition to the Lower School team, and head of its guidance office, Dr. Rebecca Mischel has already contributed to further developing and advancing the anti-bullying program. Unlike past models for guidance, she is working proactively with teachers and students. Dr. Mischel’s presence in the classrooms helps students develop a sense of social appropriateness and empowerment to control their behavior in difficult situations. Through a combination of activities, discussions, dramatizations and of course role playing, she is able to bring advanced social principles into the classroom. “By being in the classroom in a proactive manner, Dr Mischel introduces these key concepts in a constructive manner to students,” said Rabbi Beer. “She is then part of the conversation, part of their lives, and is someone who becomes a resource to help guide them going forward. “This approach demystifies and destigmatizes guidance by bringing it out of an office and putting it into the world where our students are living. As a result, our school is a safer, warmer and more wholesome environment and students are responding well to that,” he concluded.

9/11 Victims Remembered on 15th Yartzheit

explained that the miracle of his survival was guided by the hand of G-d. “In planning the event, we all came to recognize that none of the students in the room remembered that day; they were too young,” said Director of Student Life Mrs. Aliza Blumenthal. “Mr. Cohen was able to convey the experience of the day and how the world changed since then in a very meaningful manner.” The event was held on the Hebrew date of September 11, 2001 and in commemoration of the yartzheit of those who perished in the attacks. A special kel maleh was recited for those who died and the entire school was moved by the moment of reflection and inspiration.

the events of 9/11 from the perspective of someone continued from p.20 who experienced the attacks in person and lived to tell the story. He described the sense of panic and fear as the planes crashed into the towers. And the moments of uncertainty and desperation as the buildings collapsed. Inspiring the students with his words, Mr. Cohen described a singular sense of revelation in the moments of his escape. As if reliving the experience, Mr. Cohen

puter-based activity at the same time,” said Mrs. continued from p.7 Lisa BenHaim. “This enables students to access resources, digitally create and collaborate.” For the youngest of students, iPads allows students to personalize and explore, heightening their engagement and furthering their reading and comprehension skills. Leaders of the Technology Initiative include the families of Dr. Sarah and Mr. Alex Krause, Dr. Talya and Dr. Effie Gluck, Mr. Yitz and Mrs. Debbie Stern, Mr. Benjy and Mrs. Malky Singfer, Mr. Seth and Mrs. Suries Dombeck and Mr. Brian and Mrs. Arielle Ness.

Educating in an Election Year

and other students make an informed decontinued from p.7 cision when we vote for president in November?” Students designed unbiased presentations about each candidate and their running mate. Another encounter with the thrills of democracy took place when students were given the opportunity to elect a President of the Lunch Room. This election was designed to model the electoral process to help students better understand how an election works. The two candidates, Rabbi Petriska and Mrs. Ben-Haim, each presented their campaign platforms on how to best enhance the lunchroom experience. One candidate offered computer time during lunch, and the other offered board games during that time. Students then had the opportunity to cast their ballots and see who won. (Our exit polling showed that a majority of voters preferred screen-time to board-time.) The winner fulfilled their campaign pledge, delivering one day with 15 minutes of computer time in the gym at the end of lunch period. Fifth graders, split into groups, collaborated on creating incredible video displays for particular candidates describing key el-

Those interested in becoming involved in this or any other initiative may contact Mr. Andy Schultz at aschultz@thejec.org, or 908-355-4850, extension 6206.

ements of the candidate’s personal and professional biography as well as their current political platforms. Each group, outfitted like professionals, presented their videos to their peers and spoke about what they learned about each candidate that they did not know before. Sixth grade girls presented actual campaign ads to the 3-6 grades and then explained the ad content and how the ads were designed to promote a particular candidate. “It is so gratifying to see how excited and informed the children are about the upcoming presidential elections,” said Rabbi Uzi Beer, Principal of the JEC Lower School. “The faculty is doing an excellent job engaging students and exploring important topics.” Rabbi Beer further explained that as students grapple with the actual issues and candidate positions on those issues, the conversation may at times become heated. “Open debate is a hallmark of American democracy,” he said. “At the same time, civility is a hallmark of a yeshiva. “As our students express their ideas, we remind them constantly that every American is entitled to his or her opinion, and every member of our school community is entitled to respect.”

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RAV TEITZ MESIVTA ACADEMY Rabbi Chaim Marcus Joins RTMA as Mashgiach Ruchani

gram,” with a special preRosh Hashana presentation on the importance and value of continued from p.9 tefilot. Rabbi Marcus illustrated his point by dramatically recounting two moving stories that demonstrated the value of prayer and its ability to accomplish incredible things. Talmidim left with clarity and direction and pledged to work continuously to improve their tefila. “Rabbi Marcus spoke to our class many times during Elul,” recalled RTMA Senior, Jason Silverstein of Springfield, NJ. “He gave us a new understanding and appreciation for Rosh Hashana and connected the tefila L’Dovid Hashem Ori to everything we do! We loved it.”

RTMA Leads with New STEM Lab

ing around, I spent a couple of weeks continued from p.9 developing and advancing my STEM skills in a fun and relaxed environment. And I got to work with some really cool equipment before anyone else,” he concluded with a grin. That cool equipment Etan referred to includes two new 3D printing machines and a Computerized Numerical Control, or CNC machine, generously donated by RTMA parents Brian and Arielle Ness (Brian is also a JEC board member, and Arielle is a Bruriah graduate). The CNC machine is a revolutionary device that represents the next generation of printing, as it facilitates digital imaging on wood and metal. The lab includes a special enclosed area specifically designed to enable students to train and create using this advanced equipment.

Students and faculty worked with professional engineers from PicoTurbine, makers of the CNC machine, and CIJE to assemble and calibrate the new equipment, train on

its varying uses, and develop initial projects. RTMA is only one of four schools selected to compete in this year’s first ever CIJE Robotic Challenge. (See our next issue for more on RTMA’s cutting-edge Robotics Program and the CIJE Contest.) The sophisticated and precise CNC equipment is directed by student controlled three-dimensional design software that opens doors to creativity and imagination, and enables students to actualize and realize their conceptual ideas. “RTMA lives on the cutting-edge of STEM and educational technology. The world is moving so fast and our students are pushing the envelope every day,” said Rabbi Neuman. “They will continue to drive innovation and work on their own discoveries. Through experimentation and persistence, they will learn from their experience and grow to even greater heights.”

BRURIAH HIGH SCHOOL Make Your Mark

Mrs. Aliza Blumental. continued from p.11 “ T h e theme for the year is Make Your Mark – when looking at our hands, our four fingers each represent each of these, and our thumb represents us,” she explained. “We can touch each finger with our thumb, and leave our mark on the world with each of these.” Each student leader serves throughout the year as a role model and leader who dedicates their time and energy in services to their peers and school, developing programs and events for everyone. GENERAL ORGANIZATION LEADERSHIP 5777, 2016-2017 President Shlomit Wachsberg, Senior, Passaic VP of Tzedakah Racheli Goldstein, Senior, Passaic VP of Chesed - Aliza Ochs, Senior, Clifton VP of AISAC Tziona Kamara, Senior, Passaic VP of Wordwatch Rivka Hirsch, Senior, Passaic Treasurer - Mili Chizhik, Sophomore, Highland Park Treasurer - Miri Nash, Junior, Passaic Secretary of Programming Batya Feman, Junior, Teaneck Secretary of Programming Michal Herman, Junior, Bergenfield Secretary of Public Relations Elisheva Hirsch, Sophomore, Teaneck Secretary of Public Relations Anya Roberts, Sophomore, NYC

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Bruriah Students Learn About National Issues at Live Debate

was posed by Ariel Ezra and Sara Fried and focused on efforts to stop continued from p.11 domestic terrorism and the radicalization of U.S. citizens. From there, questions ranged from wire-tapping and email privacy, to school vouchers, the minimum wage, and taxes. A question about each party’s support for a

two-state solution to the Israeli – Palestinian conflict instigated the afternoon’s most dramatic display. Assemblyman Schaer noted that the Republican president nominee said he would be “neutral” in the conflict, while the current president of the United States, a Democrat, just authorized a $38 billion defense commitment to Israel over the next 10 years. Commissioner Rodgers, argued that the Democratic president also sent billions of dollars to a terrorist state that is developing nuclear weapons and that has stated its intention of de-

stroying Israel. In a moment of political theater, Commissioner Rodgers then walked over to the Israeli flag, lifted it up and said, “We stand side by side with Israel, and this star goes with those stars,” pointing to the American flag. “In the end, our students won the debate,” said faculty member Mrs. Shuli Fuchs. “They learned about the electoral system, got to participate in the political process by questioning party leaders, and learned about where the parties stand on issues the students found important.”

RAV TEITZ MESIVTA ACADEMY At RTMA, Students Live AboveTheCode

we are.” The creed is emblacontinued from p.1 zoned on walls, notebooks, and student spaces throughout the school. Teachers and faculty can be heard echoing the mantra throughout the day and urging students to go the extra distance. “At this age, it is critical that high school students develop the positive character traits that will define how they approach life as they become adults,” said Rabbi Shmuel Taub, long time RTMA Limmudei Kodesh rebbe. “Living AboveTheCode now means that they will emerge with a sense of drive and determination to improve themselves and their world, and not be satisfied with the lowest common denominator.” The mission informs every decision made in the school and the manner in which they are carried out. “Our compass is the Torah. We are guided by it in everything we do, in every goal we set, and in every measure,” explained Rabbi Neuman. “We are passionate, and we are always

in pursuit of our goals. But, these things don’t just happen to us, they happen only when we are fully engaged and reflective.” Students have already taken to their new code, are advancing their learning, helping each other succeed, and improving images of themselves and their own self-respect. “Now I know that it is not enough just to skate by,” freshman Dovid Rozehzadeh of West Orange, NJ. “Half of life may be just showing up, but the other half is hard work and determination. And I am ready to do my part.” Rabbi Neuman could not be more proud of the way his students and faculty have internalized and actualized this ethos. “The transformation is amazing. Where students were once satisfied with mediocrity, they are now demanding more of themselves, their friends and their school,” he said. “Each day we are challenged to improve ourselves as individuals, as a community, and as a school. The growth is incredible and the sky is the limit. “Together we live AboveTheCode. Guided by the Torah, we passionately pursue excellence through engagement, reflection, and growth.”

Pursuing Higher Education continued from p.9

demic mini-camps. “More and more, colleges are looking beyond grades to see the whole student,” said Mr. Frank. “From summer jobs, to extra-curriculars, to advanced courses, hobbies, and interesting experiences - students benefit from thinking about these things right from the beginning.” Tenth grade is also the time to begin working on SAT and ACT prep, with full preparation taking place in eleventh grade when Mr. Frank teaches an SAT prep course to juniors. Eleventh grade is also a time to focus on building transcripts to make sure they are up to the standards of prospective institutions. Seniors focus on the application process, the application essay, and their admissions interview. To help students plan for their future, the college guidance team meets with every student to partner in crafting an individual strategy tailored to each student’s goals. “There is no one formula,” explained Mr. Frank. “Every student is unique and it is our job to help them present their best selves.” The College Guidance department also maintains close contact with college admissions offices around the country as well as with peers in other high schools. Those relationships are the basis of a newsletter the department produces for

parents to help them keep track of critical dates and inflection points in the process. The newsletters also provide updates on school selection processes, scholarship news, financial aid packages and other college related activities. Mr. Frank is also sensitive to the unique needs of a students graduating from a mesivta in choosing a college or university that also provides opportunities for students to live a proper Torah life on campus. “Our job is to enable students and parents to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals,” said Rabbi Ami Neuman. “Set the bar high, and we’ll help you get there.” RTMA recently produced one of its best years ever with fully 25% of graduates being accepted to the Yeshiva University Honors College

New House Program Launches continued from p.9 Instead of knowing only my friends, I have met students in every grade and we learn, work and collaborate on so many things. It’s really awesome.” All students were randomly divided into one of eight Houses, with each House having a balanced representation from all grades and academic tracks. “There is a place and role for everyone,” explained Rabbi Yisroel Rich, Director of Student Activities. “Every student has strengths, everyone has something they can get better at. This system allows students to excel and grow in all areas, without judgement or precondition.” Each House carries the name of one of the ten sefirot, with chachma, binah and da’at, all falling under da’at. Houses are led by “House Deans,” one Junior and one Senior per House, selected by the faculty and administration after an extensive interview process that examined student’s character, commitment and leadership qualities. “Over thirty applicants came in suits and ties to be interviewed,” said Mr. Jeff Frank, Director of College Guidance and teacher of AP History, who helped conceive and design the program. “Students took the process incredibly seriously. They withstood a battery of serious questions from faculty and administration and were really quite impressive.” House Deans will have additional leadership training and skill cultivation opportunities throughout the year together with other students seeking such advancement. The sorting and selection process was incredible, with a laser light show, pulsating music and cheers accompanying the random drawing and selection of each student. “The atmosphere was electric,” one student was overheard exclaiming. “It was like each student was special. At that moment we were all a star.” As part of the initial induction into the Houses, students were met by United States Marines, who provided students with leadership training. Together, they learned what it means to work hard, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to be consistent. The Marines also discussed what it means to be governed by standards and live above the code, raising expectations. To demonstrate this, the Marines put students through a rigorous basic training course requiring students to push themselves further and faster than ever before. Throughout the year, students will have opportunities to work together and to learn the importance of being responsible to and

for one another. Every month will focus on a theme signifying a particular aspect of life that each House will seek to grow in. The first month’s theme was Achdut or “Unity.” Students were challenged to learn about each other and to then face off in an adaptation of the newlywed game during the school’s Shabbaton. Over the Succot break, students were challenged to do as many acts of physical chesed as possible by building and taking down sukkahs in their neighborhoods. Working together to help others reinforces the House System’s goals of unity, community service and personal growth. The “Build Those Houses” contest incentivized students in that each Sukkah built and taken down earned points for the House. The House that accumulated the most points from the challenge earned the opportunity to work with Habitat for Humanity and contribute to building an actual house for someone in need. “This was an incredible challenge that is still ongoing,” said RTMA Sophomore, Joseph Matthew of Edison, NJ. “RTMA has built and taken down over 300 sukkahs this month. Think of all the mitzvot. I can do something small and impact so many people.” The Houses will continue with themes and competitions throughout the year ranging from academic challenges, to technological and scientific innovation, Torah knowledge, chesed, mitzvot and more. The House that accumulates the most points by the end of the year will win the House Cup and associated prizes. House deans are working with members to design unique crests and insignias for each House that will be emblazoned on House-specific paraphernalia and SWAG. The program originated in the results of focus groups conducted by Rabbis Neuman and Sauber last year. During those meetings, which were held with every student in RTMA, it was learned that students desired a more cohesive student body that would bring together students from different tracks and grades into stronger units. “We heard the boys yearning for more opportunities to bond with each other and feel the achdut and ruach of a yeshiva,” said Rabbi Sauber. “This system really helps encourage that environment of unity, depth, and purpose.”

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