A guide to your hig h school experience
w w w.tanenbaumchat.org
a look at our school
academic creative spiritual new stream involved technical athletic
Learn about our outstanding academics & Grade 9 program
Fostering creativity Through music to drama and art
Rich in Jewish tradition, Education & Experience
welcoming Students New to the jewish school experience
enriching lives through unique experiences
providing the latest technologies IN an ever-changing world
Encouraging teamwork and Healthy competition
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TanenbaumCHAT Testimonials & OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT
Life After TanenbaumCHAT Post-Graduation & Beyond
Supporting Our Students Helpful Extras
NEXT STEPS:
How to Apply!
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Ready to jump-start your education with TanenbaumCHAT? Then proceed to the enclosed application pack for complete details of the application process, application fees and deposits, deadlines, important dates and FAQs.
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See the Application Pack to begin your TanenbaumCHAT experience >>
One School, Two Campuses see our facilities
Our Vision & Values
We are proud of our school, the vision we have for Jewish education, and the values we embody.
About TanenbaumCHAT TanenbaumCHAT is the co-educational community high school of the Greater Toronto Jewish Community. We welcome students of all Jewish affiliations and beliefs.
Our Mission Statement: The Anne & Ma x Tanenbaum Community Hebrew
Academy of Toronto —TanenbaumCHAT—aims to offer
the best and most inspired teaching with outstanding faculty, and to characterize the school by its care for each individual student. TanenbaumCHAT educates it students to be committed Jews and concerned, active citizens.
A Brief History Lesson
A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT
TanenbaumCHAT began with only a small number of students in
TanenbaumCHAT IS KNOWN FOR ITS CLOSE STUDENT
1960. Over fifty years later, our school has a student body of roughly
TEACHER RELATIONSHIPS AND FAMILY ATMOSPHERE.
1,400 and a teaching faculty of 185 across two campuses.
GUIDANCE COUNSELLORS ENSURE THAT STUDENTS
q: what’s in a name ? a: The Tanenbaum name has been associated with our school since
RECEIVE CARING, INDIVIDUALIZED ATTENTION. We offer
a comprehensive range of educational services to meet students’ individual academic and social needs. Our advanced programs offer academic enrichment to the
1998 when philanthropist Dr. Anne Tanenbaum z”l made a major
most gifted students. Through specialized ‘Learning
gift to our school. She cared deeply about Jewish education and
Centres’ we provide special education, remediation
her gift made possible extensive additions to the Wilmington (now
and ESL. Successful peer counselling and peer tutoring
Wallenberg) Campus. In honour of a further substantial gift she
programs maintain our tradition of student-to-student
made before her passing in 2008, the entire school was renamed the
help. Both campuses accommodate students with
Anne & Max Tanenbaum Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto—
physical disabilities.
TanenbaumCHAT in every day usage.
For our vision & values brochure, please visit tanenbaumchat.org/values or request a print copy at the school office.
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Starting high school is exciting; Our Grade 9 students come together from many different schools to start a journey that will last a lifetime!
Beginning the
Journey at TanenbaumCHAT
The TanenbaumCHAT experience begins with many activities to welcome students—and their parents—to their new surroundings. At the beginning of the school year, Grade 9 students attend an orientation day at Camp Robin Hood to get to know their teachers, meet new friends and learn about TanenbaumCHAT in a fun and relaxed environment. Grade 9 is a very exciting time for students as it marks a transition to the next chapter of their lives. For some kids, and even parents, the transition to high school can be daunting. Our Guidance Department offers programs designed to make the adjustment to Grade 9 as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We can help them quickly adjust!
Our Grade 9 Program
The program includes:
GENERAL STUDIES:
PLUS ONE OF:
English
Art
JEWISH STUDIES:
Geography
Drama
Ivrit (Modern Hebrew)
Mathematics
Music
Jewish History
French
Communication Technology
Every Grade 9 student takes 11 courses.
Tanakh
Science
Information Technology in
Each course has three one-hour lessons per week.
Rabbinics or Talmud
Physical Education
Business
Beyond Grade 9 By Grade 11 many of the Ministry of Education requirements have been satisfied and students have a wide range of electives to choose from in Grades 11 and 12.
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Our General Studies TanenbaumCHAT is an outstanding academic school. Students
Positive feedback from universities, colleges and from our own
follow the high school curriculum of the Ontario Ministry of
graduates indicates that a TanenbaumCHAT education is an
Education and Training, leading to an Ontario Secondary School
outstanding preparation for university and college study
Diploma. Our GENERAL STUDIES curriculum provides a range of
– both in knowledge and skills.
courses, offering choices at each level.
The bi-cultural content of our program offers an enriched
At the time of the entrance interview, a Grade 9 course calendar
education. Our academic courses provide gifted students with
is available to help students choose their courses.*
a high level of intellectual challenge.
Historically, our students have easily fulfilled the credit requirements for high school graduation and have an
* (While every effort is made to meet our students’ and
exceptional rate of entrance to universities across
parents’ wishes, TanenbaumCHAT reserves the right to
the world.
determine student courses and class placement.)
A HIGH SCHOOL E X PERIENCE THAT FITS YOUR CHILD: Here are two examples of possible course selections throughout four years at TanenbaumCHAT.
LAURA wants to
. H and SCIENCE specialize in MAT t include: CHAT migh ies at Tanenbaum
d opportunit
Her choices* an
OI CE S CU RR ICU LA R CH Grade 9 & 10 or Enriched Math – Academic ic Science – Academ hnology Tec n tio ica un mm Co ination from: Grade 11 Comb ations – ‘U’ Functions & Applic ‘U’ – Biology Chemistry – ‘U’ Physics – ‘U’ – ‘U’ Computer Science ination from: Grade 12 Comb rs – ‘U’ Calculus & Vecto Biology – ‘U’ Chemistry – ‘U’ Physics – ‘U’ – ‘U’ Computer Sciences
EX
S R OP PO RT UN ITE TR A- CU RR ICU LA
rticipate in these We normally pa other ar. There may be contests every ye e! from time to tim Canadian Open Sun Life Financial nge alle Ch tics ma the Ma terloo: University of Wa st (Grade 9) nte Co cal The Pas st (Grade 10) nte Co y yle The Ca st (Grade 11) nte Co t The Ferma (Grade 12) st nte Co The Euclid National Biology to on Tor of University Competition y Competition Avogadro Chemistr Physics Contest Sir Isaac Newton te, RehovotWeizmann Institu cs International Physi ier Fre th eve alh Sh international ice (Tw nt me rna Tou Champions!) in mmer Scholarship Slomovic-Berg Su onto Tor the at gy olo Ophthalm – open to Western Hospital nts graduating stude TanenbaumCHAT
of dies at McGill, U rs of University stu on to thirteen yea ding. fun ued ce tin pri con – and A ip LAUR ntial Scholarsh ere she won substa on in Geneva, T, and Harvard wh Health Organizati rld Wo the of the HQ at rks cs class’ in a ini wo w bb no Ra She enbaumCHAT terial ‘from my Tan where she used ma l. Pane to a WHO Ethics recent presentation
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DAVID wants to specialize in CR EATIVE ARTS an MEDIA STUDIE d S.
His choices* & op
portunities at Tan
enbaumCHAT mi ght include:
CU RR ICU LA R CH OI CE S
EX TR A- CU RR ICU
Grade 9 & 10 Music Drama Visual Arts Communication Tec hnology Grade 11 Music – ‘U’ Drama – ‘U’ Visual Arts – ‘U’ Communication Tec hnology – ‘U’ Media Studies Grade 12 Music – ‘U’ Drama – ‘U’ Visual Arts – ‘U’ Communications Technology – ‘U’
LA R OP PO RT UN ITE S
Music Junior Band Senior Band Choir(s) Live Mu sic Club Public performan ces, concert & tou rs Music support for school events and drama productions Drama/Perform ing Arts School plays School musicals Talents show Dance/Fashion sho w Visual Arts Art Show/Vernissa ge School murals Clay Club Media School-wide ‘tech’ support crews Yearbook Comm ittee Music Recording Club Comic Animation Club School-wide public ity & promotion cre w Photography Clu b Video-Making Clu b Film Festival
DAVID – was act ive throughout Tan enbaumCHAT in graduation, he sta school drama & mu rted a Communica sic. After tions course at Un other Tanenbaum iversity. With hel CHAT grad, found p from an through our Alumn was introduced to i Mentorship Progra a Science journalist m, he on the ‘Discovery’ chan to his present car nel. This led him eer as an associate producer on CBS York- where he on ‘Sixty Minutes’ ce found himself in New translating a breaki from the Ivrit televi ng-news story in sion news for his ‘re al time’ colleagues! ”It go rival channels.” t us five minutes over the
Working towards the goal...Your child earns one credit for each Ministry-approved course successfully completed. To graduate, a student must:
• Earn a minimum of 18 required credits • Earn a further 12 elective credits • Pass the Grade 10 Literacy test
• Complete 40 hours of Community Service (TanenbaumCHAT requires 72 hours)
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Exploring Jewish history, heritage, and future... We Offer: SHABBATON RETREAT, JEWISH & ISRAELI AFFAIRS, OPTIONAL DAILY MINYAN, CHIDON HATANAKH BIBLE CONTEST; MOOT BET DIN COMPETITION, HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS & MORE!
“Judaism is the ability to come together as a community and bond over what unites us rather than what separates us. It’s being a moral person and doing good as a citizen of the world.” Alex Maged, TCK
Meet Alex! Meet Melanie! Preparing young minds... We Offer: ENGLISH, GEOGRAPHY, MATHEMATICS, FRENCH, SCIENCE, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, COMPUTER & INFORMATION SCIENCE & MORE!
“You really shouldn’t be nervous. Everything is attainable. Teachers are there to help you at all times and it’s really not as hard as it seems.” Melanie Citron, TCW - Class of ‘11
Meet Lori! The freedom to express yourself... We Offer: VISUAL ARTS, PERFORMANCE ARTS/DRAMA, MUSIC, DANCE, MUSICALS, BLACK BOX THEATRE, BAND & ENSEMBLES, PAINTING/SCULPTURE/ DRAWING, TALENT & FASHION SHOWS & MUCH MORE!
“Whether students like theatre, dancing or modeling, there is something for everyone in terms of the performing arts.” Lori Ossip, TCW - Class of ‘11
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Watch their stories at tanenbaumchat.org/parents >>
We encourage students to explore their Jewishness in an open, enthusiastic and pluralistic atmosphere, welcoming curiosity and thought-provoking discussion.
Jewish Studies at TanenbaumCHAT
Our Jewish Studies programs concentrates on four areas: Tanakh (Bible); Ivrit (Modern Hebrew); Jewish History ; and Rabbinics (study of texts relating to ethical and philosophical issues). A TALMUD option is also available. Jewish Philosophy, Ethics and other electives are also available in Grade 12. A rich experiential program of retreats, shabbatonim, visiting speakers, family education evenings and other events complement our curriculum. Israel and Ivrit figure prominently and positively in our school life. Our students develop exceptionally strong ties to Israel and are encouraged to undertake further Israel study or volunteer programs in Isreal after graduation. An optional daily minyan is held at school. Parents are welcome too. The school is always happy to accommodate suggestions from our students for different traditions of minyanim. Opportunities for both traditional and non-traditional services are offered at our Shabbaton program and other school events. Every grade 9 student attends a Shabbaton as one of their first Jewish experiences at TanenbaumCHAT. A favourite of many students, this weekend retreat is an opportunity to bond with new classmates and have an all around good time while exploring Jewish values and traditions.
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Not coming from a Jewish day school? No problem! Our New Stream program is designed to integrate into our school students with little or no formal Jewish education.
New Stream Program and Students
The New Stream Program is open to students who have never attended Jewish day
New Stream JEWISH STUDIES:
school, or who have been out of Jewish day school since Grade 6.
Ivrit (Hebrew language) Tanakh (Bible study)*
M a k e Friends Fa st
Rabbinics (Jewish Oral Law)*
Beginning in Grade 9, New Stream students journey through their four Jewish
*Taught in English
Jewish History*
studies classes together. They become a very close-knit group through their four years of high school as they explore Judaism. New Stream students have the same school day structure and extracurricular opportunities as other TanenbaumCHAT students. During General Studies classes, they are fully integrated with the other students in their grade. New Stream applies only to Jewish Studies courses. Just like all other TanenbaumCHAT students, New Stream students carry four Jewish studies subjects each year. However, except for Ivrit, New Stream classes are taught in English. (Entry to the New Stream program is in Grade 9; applications for higher grades is
read REAL
considered on a case by case basis.)
*
storiesids
from real k
Learn more about New Stream at tanenbaumchat.org/newstream
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Please see the application pack for details on how to apply to the New Stream Program.
Pl acement Test s Placement tests are written prior to the application due date. Please
refer to the application pack for dates and times. Students write four short placement tests of 30 minutes each in English, Math, Hebrew and French. No advanced preparation is required as they are based on acquired knowledge. All New Stream students must be able to, with reasonable fluency, read Hebrew with vowels and write the alphabet in cursive writing. Most students should be able to master these requirements within a few days. There are many online courses available to assist students, including a tutorial from Hebrew University at http://tinyurl. com/3qmxge. New Stream applicants are required to take their Hebrew placement test at the time of their intake interview.
I love being in New Stream at TanenbaumCHAT. I’m exposed to all different aspects of Judaism that I didn’t know about before... in a really relaxed environment. It makes it a really great learning environment. open here
Lori Ossip, TCW - Class of ‘11
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TCK students at the annual Habitat for Humanity trip in West Virginia.
At TanenbaumCHAT, every experience is part of learning. We encourage all of our students to get involved in something that interests them.
Think Pink campaign in support of Breast Cancer research.
Experience
Beyond the Classroom...
With over 70 opportunities to get involved outside of the classroom, we are positive there is an activity, event, or club perfect for your child’s interests and talents. These change from year to year based on student interest and available resources. Our students make a difference. TanenbaumCHAT encourages students to choose from a myriad of clubs or events which develop leadership skills and teamwork. These include everything from Student Council to charity events to academic endeavours like DECA or Model UN. Students often travel across Canada, the US and Israel to participate in competitions and events with other Jewish and non-Jewish high schools. TanenbaumCHAT is also an active participant in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards —an international, self-directed leadership development program for young people, currently operating in 120 countries. Our students are creative. We’ve got visual, performance and musical art activities that will tap into their creativity while giving them an outlet to showcase their talents. Our students are athletic. There are sports of all types and all levels available at both campuses, promoting teamwork, achievement and, most importantly, fun! Our teams are regular competitors and winners in their respective leagues. Our students are technical. TanenbaumCHAT boasts high-tech facilities, including computer labs and recording studios for students to use in exploring all the possibilities of new media and technology.
Supporting our Communities through
Service
We believe in practising tikkun olam—making the world a better place, teaching our students their responsibility to others. Our students must log 18 hours of community work each year. Our students will complete 72 hours of
service in their four years at TanenbaumCHAT. Through their community service, our students contribute almost 30,000 hours of volunteer work to our community each year, supporting an enormous range of Jewish and non-Jewish causes and organizations.
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Full details of our community service program are available in the School Handbook or on our website at tanenbaumchat.org/community-service.
Spirit, determination & having fun... We Offer: BADMINTON, BASEBALL, BASKETBALL, CROSS COUNTRY RUNNING, GOLF, ICE HOCKEY, RUGBY, SKI/SNOW BOARD, SOCCER, SOFTBALL, SWIMMING, TENNIS, VOLLEYBALL & MUCH MORE!
“What is really special about the athletic program is the variety of different sports you can play. You don’t have to be a star athlete to participate.” Jonathan Sherman, TCW - Class of ‘11
Meet Jonathan! Meet Aryeh! The tools to make your mark... We Offer: STATE OF THE ART EQUIPMENT/LABS, MUSIC RECORDING STUDIOS, STUDENT FILM FESTIVALS, GREEN SCREEN FILM PRODUCTION FACILITIES & MUCH MORE!
“I love filmmaking at TanenbaumCHAT because they offer me the resources I need to make the vision I have in my head come to life…” Aryeh Ansel, TCK - Class of ‘11
Meet Rebecca! Something for everyone... We Offer: OVER 70 OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVOLVEMENT LIKE STUDENT COUNCIL, YEARBOOK, MODEL UN, JEWISH & ISRAELI AFFAIRS, HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, DECA, THINK PINK, VARIOUS CHARITY EVENTS & MUCH MORE!
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“You can be a part of whatever it is that you are interested in, and being involved will make your experience that much better.” Rebecca Howard, TCW
No matter what your child is interested in, TanenbaumCHAT offers an experience like no other high school!
Watch their stories at tanenbaumchat.org/parents >>
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Testimonials
Here are what some of our students, parents, and others say about the TanenbaumCHAT high school experience.
TanenbaumCHAT is one of the outstanding schools in North America. It is the kind of school to which you should want to send your child — academically superb, caring, safe and where they have every academic, extra curricular and sporting opportunity. It has a unique pluralistic and inclusive Jewish ethos. The best investment in your family future you will ever make!
Paul Shaviv, former
Director of Education
The TanenbaumCHAT New Stream program is the ultimate
The TanenbaumCHAT experience did not end at
hybrid in high school education. It offers introductory
graduation. TanenbaumCHAT has accompanied each of its
courses in religious studies for public school students with
graduates, it will always remain a part of us, and only now
limited Hebrew backgrounds.
can I genuinely appreciate the values, skills and work ethic Josh Stern, TCW - Class of ‘08
that TanenbaumCHAT helped imbue in us. Sam Reitman, Valedictorian TCW - Class of ‘05
The opportunity for students to gain confidence and
The school absolutely exceeded my expectations—
develop invaluable skills—thinking on their feet, speaking
I walked away impressed by the sense of community, the
in public, learning leadership and entrepreneurship—will
commitment to yiddishkeit, the open-minded acceptance
certainly stand them in good stead in the future, regardless of
of different approaches to Judaism, the academic rigor in
their ultimate career path. The fact that they have a lot of fun
both secular and religious studies, and the dazzling array
while doing all of this is just a bonus!
of extracurricular activities—in short, I was overwhelmed by the richness and texture of this extraordinary high ROMA BLECHER, Parent
school.
(Discussing extracurricular activities)
Professor Gil Troy, McGill University
Office of Advancement TanenbaumCHAT’s Office OF Advancement encompasses all the activities performed at a school that develop, maintain, and reinforce the relationship between the school and its current and potential families, faculty and staff, alumni and their families, friends and supporters, and the greater community. As an independent, not-for-profit school, we continue to benefit and grow through the generosity of our families and friends.
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Learn more or donate today at support.tanenbaumchat.org
The TanenbaumCHAT experience did not end at graduation. TanenbaumCHAT has accompanied each of its graduates, it will always be part of us, and only now can I genuinely appreciate the values, skills and work ethic that TanenbaumCHAT helped imbue in us. SAM REITMAN, Valedictorian TCW – Class of ‘05
Life after TanenbaumCHAT... TanenbaumCHAT is proud of its active Alumni Association representing over 6,000 alumni from over the past 50 years. Like all independent schools, TanenbaumCHAT relies upon the enthusiastic and dedicated participation of our alumni. Passion for the mission of the school remains inspiring and strong. Stay connected with TanenbaumCHAT at alumni.tanenbaumchat.org
Mentorship Network
Life after TanenbaumCHAT G12 Program
The Alumni Association is proud of our ever-expanding
Our Grade 12 students attend a day long program held off campus
Mentorship Network and the relationships it fosters
called Life after TanenbaumCHAT. The day guides students through
between mentors and mentees. Mentorship is a vital
their first steps after high school. TanenbaumCHAT alumni are
way to make a marked difference in the life of a young
invited as panelists to address topics like “One Degree – Many
person. Having a mentor can foster self-confidence by
Opportunities”.
imparting relevant and honest advice to anyone in need of guidance. The TanenbaumCHAT Mentorship Network is an alum to alum program that was created for TanenbaumCHAT alumni of all ages. TanenbaumCHAT mentees are paired with alumni mentors with experience in a similar field of interest. With so many successful TanenbaumCHAT graduates who are leaders in various industries already registered as mentors, this program is very successful and has proven to be an integral part of the TanenbaumCHAT experience.
more after TanenbaumCHAT events:
Reunions Alumni Basketball Career Day
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Our kids are precious assets. At TanenbaumCHAT we have many resources to guide our students on the path to achievement and success.
Supporting Our Students
q: what is
EDLINE ?
Our guidance counsellors advise students on course selection and personal
a: Edline is TanenbaumCHAT’s online
educational planning; career counselling; university and college entrance and
system for student / teacher / parent
study programs in Israel. Personal counselling is also offered to students who
communication.
wish to discuss academic, social or personal issues and is strictly confidential. TanenbaumCHAT works closely with social service agencies of the Jewish and wider community.
Here students can access their homework assignments and marks, and get information on upcoming field trips and Shabbatonim.
Accommodations can be made for Students with Diverse Learning Styles who
Parents receive personal and confidential
have an assessment and/or IEP (Individual Education Plan). These documents must
login names and passwords once school
be submitted at the time of application. (Please note, accommodations cannot
begins to allow them to access information
be considered if the assessment is more than three years old.)
regarding their children’s progress and school news.
The
School Handbook & Course Calendar
The School Handbook is issued at the beginning of each new school year. It contains our Safety and Behaviour Code, our expectations of students and parents, and describes other essential school routines. We encourage parents to see themselves as partners with staff and administration in ensuring a safe and positive atmosphere within the school. By attending TanenbaumCHAT, students and their parents agree to conduct themselves in accordance with the handbook and other rules set by administration. Copies of the handbook are included in the application package and are always available from the school office. It can also be accessed online at tanenbaumchat.org. A comprehensive annual TanenbaumCHAT Course Calendar gives full information to students and parents about available courses and electives, and includes an individual academic planning chart.
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One School Two Campuses TanenbaumCHAT
TanenbaumCHAT is one school with two campuses: Wallenberg & Kimel. This allows us to provide top-quality education with a unique experience to more of the Greater Toronto Area Jewish community.
Kimel Family Education Centre
Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Jewish Community Campus 9600 Bathurst Street, Vaughan, ON L6A 3Z8 Tel : 905.787.8772 | Fa x : 905.787.8773
Opened in York Region in September 2000, TanenbaumCHAT’s northern branch, the Kimel Family Education Centre, moved to the Joseph & Wolf Lebovic Community Campus in September 2007. It boasts a contemporary design and state-of-the-art resources.
campus services students living north of Steeles Avenue
TanenbaumCHAT Campus
Wallenberg
200 Wilmington Avenue, Toronto, ON M3H 5J8 Tel : 416.636.5984 | Fa x : 416.636.7717
Since 1979, the school has been located on Wilmington Avenue. In 1999 the school underwent a major expansion featuring a new 28-classroom wing, gym, an enlarged library, and the opening of the hub of student activity, the Hennick Family Atrium. The campus continues to evolve, highlighted by the newest addition, the Guttman Family Science Wing. Campus services students living south of Steeles Avenue
Learn more about Our Locations at www.tanenbaumchat.org/locations
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parents.tanenbaumchat.org Kimel Family Education Centre Joseph and Wolf Lebovic Jewish Community Campus 9600 Bathurst Street, Vaughan, ON L6A 3Z8 Tel : 905.787.8772 | Fa x : 905.787.8773
Enquiries: Rosemary Tile, Recruitment Manager Tel : 416.636.5984 x 377 | cell : 416.688.9727 Email : r tile@tanenbaumchat.org
Wallenberg Campus 200 Wilmington Avenue, Toronto, ON M3H 5J8 Tel : 416.636.5984 | Fa x : 416.636.7717
Anne & Max Tanenbaum Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto 200 Wilmington Avenue, Toronto, ON M3H 5J8 Tel : 416.636.5984 | Fa x : 416.636.5755 Email : info@tanenbaumchat.org
Affiliated with the Centre for Jewish Education of UJA Federation of Greater Toronto