Yeshivah of Flatbush Summer Bulletin 2017 by Yeshivah of Flatbush

Yeshivah of Flatbush aucykps vchahv

August 2017 Av 5777

Executive Message Letter from the Executive Director

t is with much excitement that I write to you as the Yeshivahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Executive Director. It is a privilege to be involved with such a prestigious institution, one with a stellar reputation throughout the U.S., Israel and beyond. It is an honor to partner with Head of Elementary School Rabbi Lawrence Schwed and Head of High School Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari to lead our yeshivah into the future. I express my hakarat hatov to them for helping me become acclimated into my new position. I would also like to thank YOF President Robert Frastai for guiding me towards his vision of an even more exemplary school. In addition, I am thrilled to work with such a talented group of professionals in our Executive Office and look forward to continue building on all that we have accomplished thus far. As you explore this Bulletin, you will notice our yeshivah come to life. You will see our commitment to educational excellence and the well rounded experience our students receive. You will appreciate our broad course offerings of STEM, art, literature and drama, while also seeing our focus on athletics and the social/emotional health of our students. You will recognize two of our pillars, chesed and commitment to Israel. We are proud to report that the Joel Braverman High School renovations continue at a good pace. We are currently erecting the structural steel of the new North Building; we poured the concrete in the subcellar, cellar and first floor levels; areas in the existing building have been relocated in order to create the new building passageway; and furniture selection is being finalized. We are in the planning stages of renovating our Atideinu 2â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s building and will be redesigning and modernizing the second floor. These expansions are only possible because of your extraordinary generosity. But for our yeshivah to keep growing, we need your help. We turn to you, the Yeshivah of Flatbush community, to partner with us. Every gift will improve the experience of our students. With the conclusion of the 2016-2017 school year, we bid farewell to two individuals who have dedicated their lives to the Yeshivah of Flatbush. Toba Goldberg, Associate Principal of the Elementary School and Jill Sanders, Associate Principal and Director of Admissions of Joel Braverman High School, retired after both spending more than 30 years devoted to the students of the Yeshivah of Flatbush. They have both touched the lives of thousands of our children and for that we all owe them much gratitude. I look forward to building a personal relationship with each of you. Please reach out to me at jrothman@flatbush.org so we can work together to share our passion for and dedication to the school. With best wishes for a relaxing summer and looking forward to greeting you in September!

Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman

First floor slab of the Bet Midrash looking towards East 16th St. and the new Library. The steel, deck and slab for the Library's second floor is overhead.

View from south end of the site, looking towards the new building: Bet Midrash, first and second floor of the Library.

Architect's rendering of the outdoor student seating space.

High School Alan Dershowitz Speaks to JBHS Students on the Importance of Speaking Up for Israel he High School had the honor of hosting esteemed lawyer, former Harvard professor and author, Alan M. Dershowitz, this past spring. Mr. Dershowitz, an alumnus from Brooklyn College and Yale Law School, spoke to students about the problems facing the State of Israel on campuses and around the world. As “Israel’s single most visible defender,” Mr. Dershowitz answered to a panel of Israel advocacy students after a brief speech of his own. He lightheartedly joked about how, in his younger years, he was denied acceptance after submitting his Flatbush application. Mr. Dershowitz explained how valuable a Jewish education really is, and said that he made “enormous use” of his yeshivah learning while teaching law for 50 years at Harvard. He was able to connect Torah references to his law teachings, and would often quote Rambam and medieval sages rather than Thomas Jefferson, which was more the norm. The panelists asked Mr. Dershowitz questions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, of which he answered that he favors a two-state solution with demilitarized Palestinians. He also

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Vicki Ades Photography

warned the students, that in life, especially throughout their college years, “You are going to have to know the history and politics of Israel on the tip of your tongue,” since it is common on college campuses to be bombarded with anti-Israel rhetoric from both professors and peers. Some of the high points in his career included his ongoing fight against the death penalty, having a relationship with every Israeli Prime Minister since Golda Meir, meeting and working with Elie Wiesel, and representing Natan Sharansky. He said he will most likely represent Israel if the

International Criminal Court indicts the country for war crimes. “I grew up in the shadow of the Holocaust,” he explained. “Anti-Semitism is one virus with many permutations.” Mr. Dershowitz has been published in The New York Times Magazine, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and The Harvard Law Review. He is the author of more than 30 fiction and non-fiction works, including The New York Times #1 bestseller, “Chutzpah.”

Vicki Ades Photography

NEWS BITE

Heading Library The JBHS Text Here Library received Advanced Accreditation from the Association of Jewish Libraries for the excellence of its library staff as well as technological and digital resources, collections, programming and online catalogue procedures. Congratulations to Library Chair Rachail Kurtz and Library staff Brian Katz and Fagie Schonbrun on this wonderful recognition.

AP English Class Seizes the Day at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

nglish Department Chair Mica Bloom’s AP English Literature class ventured out on an early spring day to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The class meandered through the grounds, read poetry and gazed at the royal purple and white crocuses, happy to contemplate life while watching the koi from the Japanese pagoda. In the Shakespeare Garden, senior Florence Deutsch read Sonnet XXX IV. After a pleasant picnic, most of the class searched for the elusive cherry blossoms, while seniors Josef Kusayev and David Azrak went on a quest to find two fruit trees to say Birchat Ilanot. It was a fun trip with a lot of literary silliness and intellectual banter enjoyed by all.

Future Executives Mix with Professionals at VEI Youth Business Summit

tudents in Mr. Leor Kweller’s Virtual Enterprise class have been working all year to create, manage and market their virtual business, “Office and Beyond,” an office supply company. The young entrepreneurs have been involved in every aspect of running their virtual business including putting together business and marketing plans, completing financial reports, developing web pages and marketing campaigns, and managing sales and interactions with other virtual enterprise firms. This spring, the students went to the 2017 Virtual Enterprise International (VEI) Youth Business Summit at Pier 92 in Manhattan. The summit brings together thousands of rising young professionals and budding

entrepreneurs from more than 40 countries, as well as educators, school/district administrators, business leaders and industry professionals. This one-of-a-kind global convention was an opportunity for students to sell their products and personally interact with other Virtual Enterprise firms from throughout New York City, the rest of the United States, as well as international companies. The students successfully displayed the professional skills and business acumen they developed by running a Virtual Enterprise company during the school year. They enjoyed themselves, demonstrated their knowledge of the financial industry, and made important connections with several business leaders.

High School Witness Theater Leaves Audience With Hope

undreds filled the Khezrie Auditorium for this year’s Witness Theater production, “The Spirit of Hope.” The performance was the culmination of a monthslong heartfelt partnership between our students and eight local Holocaust survivors. Since last September, the students and survivors met once a week for an emotional journey in which they revealed moving stories of survival, loss, trauma and most importantly, hope. The performance highlighted the feelings of unease and insecurity in the students’ and survivors’ early interactions and their hesitancy in unleashing the memories that lay

before them. The group bravely began to explore these difficult recollections that had been hidden for decades.

moved to America in 1960 where she managed a bakery. Mrs. Tambor has two children, five grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

In one of the survivors’ stories, Khana Kuperman, born in Soroka, Romania in 1934, lived in a ghetto in the Ukraine after Russia took over Romania. Her father was drafted to the Soviet army and she never heard from him again. Later in life, she went to college, became a language and literature teacher, and moved to America in 1980. She has two children and four grandchildren. In another story, Cipora Tambor was born in Brisk, Poland in 1933. When war broke out, her family fled to Kazakhstan, where her father was drafted into the Soviet army. After the war ended, she and her family tried to return to Poland but they were shunned as Jews. Eventually, they moved to Israel, where she met her husband. She

The performance featured each survivor’s personal story with its own unique title. Scenes depicted the strong theme of hope in the face of evil. Most importantly, the audience witnessed empathy which director Sally Shatzkes noted, is “a force that defies age and binds us together as human beings.” This compelling program was coordinated by Sally Shatzkes, Drama Therapist and Program Director; Jeanne Franco, Program and Production Assistant; Halley Goldberg, Social Worker, Brooklyn Holocaust Survivor Program, Selfhelp Community Serivces; and Fran Tarshish, Social Work Supervisor, Brooklyn Holocaust Survivor Program, Selfhelp Community Services. The choir performed under director Brian Gelfand. Witness Theater is generously supported through the Better Together grant.

NEWS BITE

Premier Robotics Competition held at YOF JBHS hosted the first Yeshivah Robotics Competition. Four teams (two from YOF) participated with their robots, competing in both pre-programmed and remote controlled efforts to have their robots perform tasks. The robotics teams were coached by faculty member Shai Horowitz and alumnus Isaac Cohen (HS ‘08) and directed by Mrs. Shifra Hanon.

Creative Lecturers Held the Suspense on Book Day

gatha Christie’s celebrated mystery novel, And Then There Were None, was selected for JBHS annual Book Day for its classic depiction of a “whodunit” and its themes of evil, retribution, guilt and suspense. Our own cast of characters included esteemed guest speakers, intriguing faculty members, and imaginative parents who all held various workshops throughout the day. Book Day was coordinated by Library Chair Rachail Kurtz, English Chair Mica Bloom, and Librarian Brian Katz. Students participated in producing art, drama and film interpreting the themes of the book and were involved in all levels of creating and presenting the program. This yearly highlight for juniors and seniors allowed students to interact with experts in many different fields. Robert Geronimo, an illustrator, writer and graphic novelist, lectured on “Creating a Sense of Mystery and Suspense with Visual Storytelling.” Jane Cleland, an award-winning mystery writer who most recently authored Mastering Suspense, Structure & Plot, lectured on “Writing Crime Fiction: Using Suspense to

Create Irresistible Stories That Sell.” David Burghauser, director of QRI Private Investigations, spoke about being a private investigator and what that entails in this day and age. Many faculty members added their own creative touches to the event. Mr. Justin Engel led his own “whodunit” in the library, while Ms. Shelley Kaplowitz produced a comedic film presentation on the “Mysteries of Flatbush.” There was a dramatic performance directed by Mr. Jeffrey Lazar, and Judaic studies tie-ins elaborated by Rabbi Yitzchak Rosenblum, Ms. Miriam Wielgus, and Rabbi Zelig Prag, to name just a few. One of the most memorable parts of the day was a rap song performed by the duo of Kaydom and Kaydas, aka Metanoiz, who “rapped out the mystery” and led their own lecture. Lorraine and Sion Betesh sponsored the English luncheon in honor of their children, Lily and Teddy. Many thanks to the members of our faculty and parents for their artistic and literary contributions, and to our student committee members whose enthusiasm helped make the day so successful.

Three JBHS Guidance Programs Help Students Hold Strong Against Peer Pressure

uring the spring semester, the JBHS Guidance Department focused on empowering students to make good decisions and resist peer pressure. Sophomores heard guest speaker Mr. Joey Cabasso’s personal recovery story about how he overcame drug and alcohol challenges to achieve fulfillment in his personal and professional life. Students attended sessions to reflect on and discuss the risks of substance abuse and ways to work through real situations in a healthy and confident way. Retired Major League Baseball player Darryl Strawberry also came to visit with students and discussed his battles with drug addiction and the importance of a good support system. Project SAFE brought in these speakers to encourage positive behavior in our youth. In April, the Choices Commission, comprised of juniors and seniors, visited our Middle Division students to talk about making healthy transitions. A panel of high school students described their personal growth experiences and then opened the floor to questions about challenges the Middle Division students will face as they enter their teenage years. Topics included making friendships, maintaining good reputations, resisting peer pressure and finding —and being comfortable with — your true identity.

High School Coding Boot Camp Teaches Students New Skills

reshmen, sophomores, juniors and eighth graders participated in separate coding boot camp days. Students learned coding applicable to each of their grades, and gained an understanding of how to apply the lessons to use on a regular basis. All classes were taught by recent graduates of 12-week coding boot camps. YOF students used their iPads and Bluetooth keyboards (donated by Sakar International) to work on solving puzzles on code.org and tynker.com. During the juniors’ day, students heard from Google Senior Advisor Jack Hidary (HS ’86), who, with the assistance of Joe Tricot (HS ‘13), brought the coding program to the school - as well as fashion writer Sophia Chabbott (ES ’94). Mr. Hidary explained to the students the importance of coding and technology in today’s job market.

Ms. Chabbott, who was a senior editor at Glamour Magazine and now serves as Web Director for Women’s Wear Daily, discussed how almost all publications must maintain an online presence. She explained that using her technological familiarity on a daily basis helped her find success in the fashion writing industry. On another coding boot camp day, sophomores and eighth graders spent their Sunday morning working with block code on code.org and quickly transitioned to writing actual code on tynker.com. On the freshman boot camp day, Mr. Hidary spoke to the students about the critical importance of coding skills in their future education and careers. He also encouraged them to find tech internships and to register for summer programs, such as Code Academy boot-camps that he plans on establishing in Brooklyn and Deal.

“YOF will continue to offer opportunities to learn coding, engineering and technology in order to prepare its students for futures that demand these essential skills and knowledge.” said JBHS Associate Principal Sari Bacon.

Archon Inductees Recognized for Superior School and Community Service

eshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School held its annual Archon Induction Exercises on May 19, 2017 to honor students who have dedicated their time and effort to both their school and community. During the assembly, select students were recognized for their exemplary service to the school and were specially awarded. Senior Joey Berkovitz received the highest honor by receiving the Rabbi Dr. David Eliach Award for Distinguished School Service.

Associate Principal and Director of Admissions Jill Sanders was also recognized for her many years of commitment and dedication to our administration, faculty, and students. The new SGO was inaugurated with the passing of the binder from the old SGO. Flatbush students always go above the call of duty to help their fellow students and their communities. The Archon Exercises are an important way to recognize and honor our students for superior school service.

YOF Down to the Numbers at Yale

NEWS BITE

JBHS students competed against five other schools in a math competition at Yale University. The tests contained rigorous problem-solving questions that required serious concentration.͞“The competition was a fun test of ability, and it complemented a trip to Yale,” said senior Joseph Braha. The competition ended with a tour which gave the students a sense of Jewish life on campus.

Pathfinders Program Paves the Way

OF encourages its students to discover and expand their unique academic pursuits, talents, and career ideas through its innovative Pathfinders Program. This initiative gives students the opportunity to strengthen their college portfolios, build resumes, and network with industry professionals. Flatbush student interns gain hands-on exposure in the field of their interest.

At the beginning of every school year, Pathfinders counselor Shifra Hanon (assisted by Doris Anteby) gives each student a survey to describe their interests, hobbies, and career pursuits. The students are then matched with opportunities throughout the year where they can volunteer, intern, and attend trips. Pathfinders experiences this past semester included: A group of interested students visited the office of Dattner Architects. Students spoke with architects and were shown the plans and renderings of several projects, including the design for the renovation and extension of JBHS itself!

Students learned about the technicalities of the cosmetics business from two professional makeup artists, Carol Safdie and Sydney Benami. Pinnacle Group, a real estate company in New York, invited a group of students to meet with its CEO, Joel Weiner, who gave them an office tour and stressed the importance of keeping employees satisfied. Aspiring chefs learned new cooking techniques and discussed healthy lifestyle choices at a cooking class at the Sephardic Community Center.

Flatbush Hosts Nashir Choral Festival JBHS Student Writer Robert Adler

n March 22, the beat came to Flatbush in the form of the Nashir Choral Festival, a yearly gathering of high school vocalists that includes workshops and performances. Several yeshivah high school choirs attended from all over the tristate area. There were numerous workshops taught by professionals, followed by a special luncheon, and kumzits hosted by JBHS Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser. The workshops were designed to advance the performances of the different vocalists and gear them up for a possible career in music.

JBHS choir director Brian Gelfand described Nashir as a “really amazing gathering of so many musical communities.”

saved for last. Maestro Mathew Lazar conducted a stunning performance of “Keren Or” featuring all of the choirs in attendance.

Each school performed one traditional and one contemporary piece for the festival. As the host, Flatbush performed first, singing “Malu Asmeinu Bar” by David Zehavi and Pinchus Lender, and Pentatonix’s “Na Na Na.”

No one could sum up the feeling of achdut better than Rabbi Besser, who commented that, in music, a difference of opinion is simply called “harmony”. No matter which school participants called home, the Nashir festival showed all attendees that a love of music unites them all.

But the most electrifying event was

Yeshivah of Flatbush freshmen and sophomore students, as well as family members of the performers, were treated to a final performance in the auditorium by the choirs of the attending schools.

High School Juliet Without Romeo

reshmen and sophomores received a much-needed break and enjoyed a bit of comedic theater in June. The play, “Drop Dead Juliet,” written by Allison Williams, was performed by our talented Drama Troupe, directed by faculty member Mr. Jeffrey Lazar.

life. Juliet decided not to take her own life, and William Shakespeare (Perry Sanders) found himself forced into giving Juliet a chance to change the script. What followed was a combination of classical Shakespeare portrayed with a modern sensibility and a whole lot of laughter.

The play began with Juliet, played by freshman Channa Rand, waking up right after Romeo had ended his

With a cast of 13 students, including freshmen, sophomores, juniors and even faculty members, all those who

had an itch for the stage had an opportunity to show off their acting. The audience was also entertained by an epic light saber battle between Tybalt, (Rebecca Coopersmith) and the gangster/rapper Mercutio (Sarah Cohen). English department faculty member Mrs. Sarah Marcus took on the dual role of Abram and Lord Capulet. Senior Max Shemtob was the assistant director.

The Sabra Institute Speakers Encourage Israel Advocacy Training

wo representatives from The Sabra Institute introduced their Israel advocacy course to juniors in early May. Irving Safdieh, President of The Sabra Institute, along with alumnus and Sabra Institute teacher Morris Kishk (HS 09), encouraged students to begin preparing themselves to effectively advocate for Israel so they will feel empowered to respond to anti-Semitic rhetoric on their future college campuses. JBHS Senior Amanda Heskiel, who enrolled in the course this

past year, said, “Many of my peers feel intimidated, targeted, isolated, and demonized for supporting our homeland because of the ongoing contentious efforts of anti-Semitic groups.” Mr. Safdieh’s inspiration for this course began after he joined a pro-Israel protest and realized that although he knew a lot about Israel, he was not well-versed enough on some of the fine historical points to accurately and persuasively build Israel’s argument. He added how

important it is to know all of the facts so that when an undecided peer or colleague asks you questions, you can convince them to join Israel’s side. Mr. Safdieh and Mr. Kishk quizzed the students with three difficult questions they are most likely to encounter, then armed them with the correct historical information and answers so they will be comfortable answering with confidence. The next course begins in September.

NEWS BITE

Poland Trip Twenty-five students traveled to Poland this past spring to see the remnants of Jewish life in Krakow and Warsaw, and visit Auschwitz, Treblinka, and Majdanek concentration camps. Tracing the paths of the victims of the gas chambers and seeing the deportation cars was an unforgettable, and incredibly moving, experience.

Parents and Students Guided in the Right Direction at the Junior College Night and Fair

ore than 30 college representatives joined the junior class and their parents in May at JBHS for an informative and interactive program for the Junior College Night and Fair. The first portion of the evening began with a panel of five schools, each of which presented helpful tips about applying to college. Some of the topics covered included college essays, visiting campuses, testing, and letters of recommendation. Panelists also delved into the nuances of the college process, enabling students and parents to gain a better sense of what to expect next year. After the panel discussion, families went to the gym where they had individual conversations with college admissions representatives. Students and parents were able to make a personal connection and obtain contact information for many of the

people who will be reading their applications. The College Night and Fair allowed families to take a significant step toward finding the right college. As students learned more about the offerings at particular schools, their college list expanded to include ones they had not been considering previously. At the conclusion of the evening, students and parents agreed that the program surpassed their expectations and was extremely valuable.

STUDENTS HEAD TO ISRAEL FOR POST–HIGH SCHOOL STUDY

e are proud of our graduates who will be continuing to develop their education next year at one of the yeshivot, seminaries, or other opportunities in Israel, included in the list below. As we wish these young men and women a successful future, we are highly confident that the personal interests and deep knowledge which they cultivated at the Yeshivah of Flatbush will drive and transform their experiences in Israel and further their preparation for college and for life. • Bar-Ilan Israel Experience • Midreshet Eshel • Midreshet Harova • Midreshet Lindenbaum • Midreshet Moriah • Midreshet Torah v’Avodah • Mikdash Melech • Sha’alvim for Women • Tzahal • Yeshivat Birkat Moshe Ma’ale Adumim • Yeshivat Lev Aharon • Yeshivat Lev HaTorah • Yeshivat Moreshet Yerushalayim • Yeshivat Orayta

High School Jill Sanders Retires After More than Three Decades at Joel Braveman High School

ssociate Principal and Director of Admissions, Mrs. Jill Sanders, retired from her position in June after 34 years of service at JBHS. Students and colleagues alike have been eager to share what she has meant to the school as a whole and to them individually. Mrs. Sanders started working at Yeshivah of Flatbush in 1983 after being hired by Rabbi Dr. David Eliach to be the Director of College Guidance. After a promotion to Assistant Principal, she moved up again to Associate Principal.

principal Rabbi Ronald Levy, who retired a year ago. English department staff member Sarah Marcus said she always appreciated how she could “step into Mrs. Sanders’ office for a word of encouragement...that always meant so much to me.” Mrs. Esther Hidary, Assistant Principal, is grateful to Mrs. Sanders, “for always pushing me to

During a surprise tribute breakfast to Mrs. Sanders on June 5, many shared stories of myriad ways in which she has given of herself to the school. Faculty member Rachel Winkler was the first to speak, and described her inseparable friendship with Mrs. Sanders since the 1970s, which gave people a feel for Mrs. Sanders’ life outside of the school. “Ms. Sanders is the anchor of the school to me,” JBHS Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser explained. He added that one of Mrs. Sanders’ greatest attributes, aside from her perfectionism, is her humility. He presented her with a beautiful glass plaque from YOF, naming her a true “aishes chayil,” woman of valor. Several of the speakers described how both students and staff see Mrs. Sanders as a motherly figure, how she cares about all of the small details of their day and is always ready to offer advice. “Mrs. Sanders is the conscience and caring heart of the administration,” said former

become a leader.” Junior Renee Gindi, like many students, felt a special bond with Mrs. Sanders. “Mrs. Sanders is truly one of the best people I’ve come across in the Yeshivah of Flatbush,” said Miss Gindi. “She continuously gave me the ability to believe in myself, and encouraged me to continue to improve.” Mrs. Sanders was always involved in school activities. She attended Seminars, organized and spoke at the Archon assembly, and worked behind the scenes to help create many other programs. “I supervised the arts and supported

its development in the Yeshivah by working closely with teachers to expand our offerings to encourage greater student involvement,” added Mrs. Sanders. She worked directly with faculty advisors for the Pegasus, the school’s art and literature publication, and The Phoenix, the school newspaper, both national award winners. Many JBHS teachers are YOF alumni, and remembered how Mrs. Sanders guided them through those four years of their lives. “One of the hallmarks of a great educator is to set really high expectations for students—then believe that those students will reach those expectations,” said Drama Therapist Mrs. Sally Shatzkes. “Jill Sanders had an impact on hundreds and hundreds of students and parents. She is the beating heart of YOF and both a champ and champion of teachers,” added JBHS Head of School Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari. YOF held a farewell dinner in honor of Mrs. Sanders and presented her with a leather-bound book of letters from current and past faculty, parents and alumni, which demonstrated her positive influence on everyone. Mrs. Sanders will continue working for the school in a part-time advisory position. In her new role, Mrs. Sanders hopes to be a “functional, effective and helpful resource.” She concluded, “The Yeshivah has always reached for more because the people I worked with have always wanted more.”

NEWS BITE

Pegasus Leaps Across Galaxies The award-winning JBHS art and literature magazine, Pegasus, took the 2017 theme of “Beyond” and presented essays, poetry, digital arts, photography and drawings in the categories of Earth, Blast Off, Galaxies, Black Hole, and Who Am I? Check out the beautiful online issue at www.myflatbushlife.com.

Evening of the Arts Showcases Student Creativity

n Yom Yerushalayim, Joel Braverman High School students and faculty treated guests to an astounding display of talent and creativity at the 6th Annual Evening of the Arts. The student lounge was transformed into a magnificent art gallery, where visitors could enjoy the multimedia work of our students as well as a delicious collation. Student artworks from the graphic design, photography and product design classes were on exhibit in the lobby and first floor hallway, along with a selection of pieces from the jewelry design “Tsei Ulemad” independent study class.

The next part of the evening took place in the Laniado Gymnasium, stunningly converted into an intimate cabaret venue. The program began with a video about Jerusalem, showcasing the miracle of the Six-Day War and 50 years of growth and progress. The program featured 20 diverse instrumental, vocal and dramatic performances ranging from classical and pop to comedy and drama. Instrumental highlights included classical piano performances by Robert Adler, Joseph Aini, Sonny Cayre and Ricky Sasson. Students sang Frank Sinatra, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Whitney

Houston, Stephen Schwartz, Billy Joel, John Lennon, and Alessandro Scarlatti. The JBHS choir, led by Choir Director Brian Gelfand, closed the show with a creative Jerusalem medley. Thank you to faculty member Rachel Winkler for coordinating this program, and to the entire Arts faculty for preparing our students for this unique event.

Elementary School YOF CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF THE REUNIFICATION OF JERUSALEM

ll Elementary School students participated in numerous programs to commemorate Yom Yerushalayim, 50 years since the reunification of Jerusalem. Throughout the year, our students learned, performed, and partied their hearts out to express their excitement for this important milestone. Hebrew Week kicked off in February for grades 1-5, and spread the Jerusalem 50 enthusiasm. Prior to the week’s festivities, each class received a puzzle showcasing a beautiful photo of the Kotel. The students watched a video created by Bnot Sherut Shiraz Cohen and Yael Attias that explained the miracle of how Am Yisrael was able to reunify Jerusalem in six days. They learned and sang the song “Yerushalayim ShBaLev” (“Jerusalem in our Hearts”). Special for Hebrew Week, the MultiPurpose Room was transformed into a mini-Jerusalem with stations around the room representing famous

sights and landmarks of the Jewish capital. Hebrew books designed by the students were prominently on display. These unique and creative works explored the concept of how we can rebuild the Beit HaMikdash by doing good deeds. Activities included finding specific fruits and vegetables in a shuk, identifying Jerusalem landmarks such as Ir David and Hebrew University on a virtual tour of Jerusalem, locating the 70 names of Jerusalem in a matching game, walking through the gates of Jerusalem, and viewing a puppet show that shared the story of why Har Hamoriah was chosen by G-d as the mountain for the Beit Hamikdash.

To culminate each class’s visit, students took a photo by the “Kotel” and enjoyed olives from the shuk. Students also had the opportunity to enter a raffle to win different Hebrew books. Parents were invited to come in and read to their child’s class in Hebrew. Supervisor of Torah Studies Curriculum Chani Gratzman organized the event, and the Bnot Sherut helped set up the festivities. In Early Childhood, students sang songs about Jerusalem and played themed games. Children worked in teams and built a model Kotel and solved a Jerusalem-themed puzzle. Lower Division’s theme was “Sharim Lach Yerushalayim (We are Singing to You Jerusalem)”. Each class contributed to the celebration by preparing a song about Jerusalem and performing on stage for each other. During a Middle Division assembly, Middle Division Principal Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg spoke to the students about honoring our Israeli soldiers and thanking G-d for the reunification of Jerusalem.

NEWS BITE

The students were shown an in-depth multimedia presentation of Jerusalem in the TaNaKh, from when Malki Tzedek Melech Shalem was the king, to the conquering and purchase of Jerusalem by King David. They were also shown a slideshow about the Six-Day War that included recordings of those who witnessed live the liberation of the Kotel. The assembly concluded with a choir performance of a medley of Israeli songs. Middle Division faculty member Dovrat Levi and her team of Jerusalem 50 students constructed the image of Jerusalem right on the fourth floor of the Elementary School, with the Old City portrayed on half the floor and the new city decorating the other half. Students submitted photos of themselves in Jerusalem that were displayed in a

Jerusalem 50 Culmination The Early Childhood Nursery end-of-year celebration focused on Jerusalem 50. At the celebration, each class performed a song and dance about Jerusalem and ended with a group performance of “Yerushalayim We Will Never Leave You.

slideshow on the hallway computer screen. “Our goal was to have the students immerse themselves in the spirit of the city,” said Middle Division Chairman of Judaic Studies Rabbi Avraham Benhamu. Our Middle Division scholars observed a double period in May in which the students brought theirTaNaKh and learned about Yerushalayim, assisted by a special presentation. Gemara teachers also discussed Yerushalayim throughout the Talmud period. “Our students delved into the history, culture and centrality of Jerusalem to the Jewish people throughout the year, and learned why this is such a significant milestone in our history,” said Head of Elementary School Rabbi Lawrence Schwed.

Elementary School

Leadership Program Students Learn the Importance of Fairness

uring the Spring semester, the Eighth Grade Leadership Program, accompanied by Middle Division faculty member and Leadership Program Coordinator Rabbi Yaakov Herzberg, made two important visits: one to the Federal Bankruptcy Court in downtown Brooklyn and the other to the New York City Office of Emergency Management (OEM). During the court visit, the leaders had a private meeting with Judge Nancy Lord, who spoke to the group on the topic of

decision making. She explained in detail how, as a judge, she weighs both sides of a case and arrives at a decision. The meeting was followed by a question and answer session, in which Judge Lord commented on how impressed she was with the Leadership group. Following their meeting, students received a tour of the courthouse, and were able to observe several court cases. At the OEM, leaders learned the importance of gathering, analyzing

and disseminating information within a decision-making process. They also learned the value of coordination and cooperation among agencies statewide, and the critical role that teamwork plays in decision making. They came to appreciate how it is imperative that each leader must learn to work with others and recognize his or her own limits. Students also had the privilege of meeting Mr. Joseph Esposito, the Commissioner of the OEM.

Welcome To Our New Flatbush Family Member

eshivah of Flatbush would like to welcome Mrs. Debra Miller as Assistant Principal for General Studies of the Lower Division. She will supervise Grades 1-4, while Mr. Robert Berkman, Principal of General Studies, will continue to supervise overall Elementary School General Studies.

Prior to joining YOF, Mrs. Miller was Lower School Principal of Columbus Torah Academy, where she not only formulated educational standards for academic goals, but also developed a vision for positive behavioral characteristics and extracurricular programs that taught life lessons. Before that experience, she was

Head of School at UOS Goldberg Montessori School in Houston, where she led the admissions process and increased student learning opportunities in reading, writing, mathematics and geography. Earlier in her career, she served as a K-12 consultant on language arts standards as Head of the High School English Department at Robert M. Beren Academy in Houston, where she was awarded Teacher of the Year as well as Above and Beyond Educator. She was also Camp Director at Camp Moshava in Houston as well as a high school English teacher. Mrs. Miller earned her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and

Secondary Education as well as her Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Education and Education Administration. Mazel tov and best wishes to Mrs. Miller on her new position as she joins the Yeshivah of Flatbush family!

NEWS BITE

The Meaning of Bat Mitzvah The Sixth Grade Bat Mitzvah Celebration included Rabbanit Margaret Benhamu as the guest speaker who discussed the special role of Esther and Jewish women in the TaNakh. Entertainment included a performance by the choir and an innovative dance program.

Life Lessons from the Flatbush Five

hroughout the school year, students in grades 1 through 8 participated in the Flatbush Five program. The program concentrated on the five character traits of Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Responsibility, and Humility. Assemblies, performances and special guests rounded out the programs to encourage our students to appreciate each of these traits. The Friends & Feelings program, created by Creative Arts Therapist Sally Shatzkes, promoted social and emotional awareness in first through third grade. This year, Mrs. Shatzkes used her puppets, Tommy and Amy, to perform original skits that addressed each of the Flatbush Five traits illustrating real scenarios occurring every day in school. The Flatbush Five Responsibility Assembly, led by Associate Principal Toba Goldberg, discussed the importance of taking responsibility for ourselves, our choices and our actions. Several students who exemplified outstanding responsibility attributes were awarded honorary buttons, designed by our talented eighth graders. Faculty member Mrs. Tiffany Beyda created a video with class 3-204 that showcased various ways to be responsible.

Students in Mrs. Paulina Salem’s class 2-304 and Mrs. Leah Weiner’s class 4-330, were paired up with questions to ask each other. They then graphed the results of their similarities and differences on a Venn diagram. The activity was a great way to promote a sense of community. During a workshop on Humility, Middle Division students were introduced to DJ Cohen and YOF alumna Cheri Srour (ES 2003, HS 2007). The assembly began with Middle Division Principal Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg addressing the students on the definition of humility and how it was exhibited in the actions of Moshe Rabbenu as well as former military general and President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower. The Rabbi explained that humility is not a lack of selfconfidence, but rather, an example of how we treat other people. DJ Cohen addressed the students about his personal life challenges and explained to the students that choosing to make sick people happy by dressing up in costumes at people’s bedsides helped him deal with his own personal medical issues. Ms.Srour suffers from a neurological disorder linked to an autoimmune disease. Ms. Srour expressed to the students that as a result of the

difficulties and

challenges she deals with in her personal life, she is able to recognize the beauty in small things and is grateful for what she is still able to do. She shared her definition of humility as “embracing the skills you have and having others use their skills to make other people feel good.” Lower Division students, under the direction of Associate Principal Rivka Zaklikowski, learned about humility through a presentation that illustrated how Moshe Rabbenu personified all the qualities of the Flatbush Five, using examples from the Torah. They watched a video and listened to a song that gave examples of how they can be humble and incorporate small acts of humility into their daily lives. To culminate the year’s lessons on the Flatbush Five, Mrs. Chani Schreiber’s class 2-306 created books explaining what the Flatbush Five means to them. The authors presented their books to the class, identified the core messages of the Flatbush Five, and celebrated their own character development. Puppets Tommy and Amy returned to the class to see just how much the students gained from the experience.

Elementary School Devoted Associate Principal, Toba Goldberg, Retires

Associate Principal Toba Goldberg has had a presence in this building for almost four decades. The thousands of children and hundreds of colleagues she has worked with over the years experienced her encouragement, determination, and helpful supervision. Mrs. Goldberg retired in June and was the star of several fond farewell events. When asked what she will miss the most, Mrs. Goldberg replied, “The children…it’s always about the children…the ones who come in to show me their reports, and to talk with me. I also loved working with the teachers. It was a wonderful experience to begin to change the culture here at YOF and invite real cooperation, collaboration and collegiality.” YOF held two events for Mrs. Goldberg; one dinner at the Elementary School where she shared the evening’s spotlight with retiring JBHS Associate Principal and Director of Admissions Jill Sanders, and the other, an end-ofyear teachers’ party. Both events had parents and staff share their experiences about Mrs. Goldberg. “Toba has dedicated her life to our Yeshivah, both as a parent of three graduates, as well as a popular and outstanding educator. Toba has lent a sympathetic ear to many parents, particularly with regard to class placement and admissions. Teachers and assistants have sought her

advice and guidance throughout the years. As supervisor and Associate Principal of grades 1-3 the past three years, she has brought a new level of professionalism and accountability to the teaching process, and our students have benefited tremendously from her involvement. We will miss her, as we wish her mazel tov, health and happiness in her retirement,” shared Head of Elementary School Rabbi Lawrence Schwed. Mrs. Goldberg started in the Elementary School as a substitute teacher in 1979, then became a general studies teacher. After becoming an administrator, she implemented Children’s Book Week, a program that has blossomed over the years. She was the first Lower Division Language Arts Coordinator, and also scheduled all Hebrew and English assembly programs, school events, and teachers’ weekly schedules. She eventually became the Torah and General Studies Assistant Principal of Lower Division, and then moved up to Associate Principal of the Elementary School. She, at one time, created clubs for 4th and 5th graders including choir. Mrs. Goldberg was also responsible for Elementary

School admissions for eight years. “I love when parents come back to visit me and tell me their child became a reader, or that he or she became an excellent writer, and they thank me for it. One of the best things I receive from YOF is the nachat I get seeing where my students have gone in the world. Many are rabbanim, heads of school both here and in Israel…and many are parents of children in the school today. It is nice to see how beautifully they grew up,” added Mrs. Goldberg. The connections with teachers, parents and students will continue while she works here twice a week as a consultant with teachers and helps the new Assistant Principal of General Studies for Lower Division, Mrs. Debra Miller, get acclimated. “Working here part-time will allow me to achieve a better work/life balance, spend more time in Israel with my family, read more, make time for friends and The New York Times crossword, and enjoy more concerts and movies with my husband, Robert,” explained Mrs. Goldberg. “It’s not easy to leave a place that has been my identity. This is what I believe in.”

NEWS BITE

Checkmates Middle Division students recently formed a chess club called the Flatbush Knights. The Knights meet twice a month to hone their skills and talk strategy. The team is overseen by Assistant Librarian Cheryl Geliebter, who is volunteering her time to coordinate and coach the club.

Parents and Students Learn Valuable Lessons on Internet Safety

n May, about 50 parents and teachers filed into the Elementary School auditorium to hear from FBI Special Agent John Robertson, Mrs. Janell Burley Hoffman, author of iRules, and our own Dr. Christine L. Coleman, YOF Director of Informational and Instructional Technology, on raising our tech generation. Attendees learned how to find balance, open dialogue and set boundaries for the tech use of our children. Mrs. Ruth Waide, YOF Director of Pupil Personnel Services, explained that while a child would probably describe the internet as fun and social, parents need to be aware of the complexities and possible dangers in order to keep their children safe. Special Agent Robertson encouraged parents to be engaged partners with their children and to create a comfortable environment for their children to speak to them about any issue. He cautioned that online predators can be any type of person, from any kind of background. He

urged parents to monitor their children’s friend requests, chat history and browsing history. He also advised parents to think about what they themselves post about their children online. Special Agent Robertson discussed the dangers of decoy apps as well as apps that encourage anonymity and programs that enable false identities. Mrs. Hoffman discussed ways for parents to help their children create healthy and balanced relationships with technology, starting with values. She encouraged parents to be an askable adult as well as a mentor and guide for their children. Hoffman urged parents to know what their children are doing online. She also encouraged parents to come together in community to help one another and to seek a teenage tech tutor to use as a trusted resource. She emphasized the positive ways technology can become part of the family culture and help people connect.

Dr. Coleman spoke about how YOF is compliant with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) as well as New York’s cyberbullying laws. She encouraged parents to serve as a helpful guide. She advised parents to Google their children, know their children’s passwords, prevent devices at night in bed and test drive an app before letting their children download it. She cautioned that nothing is ever erased from the internet and that the internet is not regulated. In a separate assembly, Middle Division students were privileged to hear from Mrs. Hoffman as well as Detective Klapak from the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office. Students were taught about the different types of cyberbullying and how to prevent themselves from becoming victims. Mrs. Hoffman spoke about how to use technology in the best possible way and shared some practices and tools about how to make one’s experience online healthy, productive and positive. She introduced to the students her idea of a digital toolkit along with online etiquette. The students were taught how to become digital leaders in today’s fast paced world of technology. Following the presentation, students were able to ask questions about their own personal experiences and responsibility online. Assistant Dean of Student Services Avi Smus and Middle Division School Psychologist Carly Namdar coordinated the program.

YOF Alumni The Yeshivah of Flatbush is proud to congratulate two of its prestigious alumni for receiving the 2017 Sylvan Adams Bonei Zion Nefesh B’Nefesh Prize for Anglo Olim making significant contributions to Israel in:

EDUCATION

ABBI CHAIM BROVENDER (ES 54, HS 58) stands at the forefront of Torah learning programs for thousands who have come to Israel to explore their Judaism, and has created opportunities for people around the world to enhance their Jewish identity and connection to Israel. Starting in 1967, Rabbi Brovender began teaching American students who were making their way to Jerusalem following the Six-Day War. Soon after, Rabbi Brovender established Yeshivat HaMivtar for men, teaching Torah to beginners in an open, intellectual environment. At the same time, with the founding of Michlelet Bruria (today, Midreshet Lindenbaum), he revolutionized women’s Torah study by introducing in-depth textual study and Talmud to women’s learning, paving the way for other women’s yeshiva-style institutions. For a time, Rabbi

Brovender also served in the IDF Rabbinate. In 1999, Rabbi Brovender founded ATID, the Academy for Torah Initiatives and Directions in Jewish Education, as an independent institution to train the future leadership of Jewish education, and to invigorate the field through the production and dissemination of new visions and strategies. In 2007, Rabbi Brovender launched WebYeshiva.org, the first online interactive internet yeshiva, which offers high quality classes around the clock. “The Yeshivah of Flatbush created a serious basis for a variety of intellectual interests as well as my specific interest in Eretz Yisrael. I feel that both aspects influenced me strongly and I am thankful to the school,” shared Rabbi Brovender.

SCIENCE & MEDICINE

ROFESSOR BENJAMIN W. CORN (HS 78) has been the head of the Institute of Radiotherapy at Tel Aviv Medical Center (Ichilov Hospital) for 14 years and has 30 years of experience in utilizing radiation therapy to

treat tumors. He fought for the importance of high-end linear accelerators to be used in major hospitals and convinced the leadership of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the U.S. to globalize their collaborative radiation-related research. Israel became the first international member of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (the arm of the NCI responsible for cuttingedge radiation research). Dr. Corn chairs the international committee of the RTOG that has expanded to include over 50 member countries. In addition, he is the chairman of Life’s Door, an organization co-founded with his wife Dvora, which has led the movement of integrating spirituality into healthcare as a platform to offer hope and meaning for people facing serious disease and life’s end.

“Flatbush was the place to be for a budding Zionist in the 1970’s. The synthesis of limudei kodesh (in Hebrew!) with a full load of science and liberal arts education provided the tools needed to navigate what has become the Start-Up Nation. Most importantly, I’ve been touched by the faculty members (e.g., Mr. Joel Wolowelsky, Ms. Rona Bar-Chama, Rabbi Haramati A”H) that continued to take a sincere interest in my development well after graduation,” said Dr. Corn. “I’m an oncologist and my research focuses on the science of hope. I’m interested in the cerebral mechanisms of hopefulness and techniques to make patients with cancer more hopeful. It’s been a real kick to study this topic in a country whose national anthem is HaTikvah.”

NEWS BITE

A Delicate Balance Alumna Rachel Erani (HS ‘13) visited Pathfinders students to discuss how she started her own fashion business designing custom-made chokers. Our students were eager to hear the benefits and challenges of balancing a freelance business while attending a highly competitive college. Rachel currently attends the University of Pennsylvania.

ted 1992 celebra f o s s la C S on The JBH ary Reunion rs e iv n n A its 25th the 6th, 2017 in 2 h rc a M y, a Sund sium. niado gymna a L d te ra o c e chicly d ates, out of gradu rn tu c ifi rr te The roved y members p lt u c fa d n a s spouse ected to stay conn e ir s e d ’s e n everyo lass the school. C d n a r e th o h to eac n, e Ami Sasso a n m lu a 2 9 9 of 1 elle itz and Roch w ro e z a L a ic Jess nt. ated the eve in rd o o c k c e Dw

Sports Let’s Play ball! Falcons head to Columbus

he Flatbush Falcons JBHS Baseball team was busy in mid-May playing at the Columbus Baseball Invitational in Columbus, Ohio. With two games on the slate, the Falcons first completed pool play with a 17-2 win over host Columbus Torah Academy (CTA) to advance to the Gold Medal winners bracket. ”Taking our student-athletes to events like the Columbus Tournament are about much more than great competition. It is about making connections, joining with others who share both similar cultural backgrounds and athletic pursuits, and realizing that they are part of a much larger world,” explained YOF Athletic Director Eric Amkraut. The day began with the Flatbush boys davening Shacharit and enjoying breakfast with fellow players from Kushner, Ida Crown, MTA and Columbus at the nearby Congregation Torat Emet before returning to the dorms to suit up for the final set of preliminary games. Flatbush faced off against the host squad, the CTA Lions, on the main diamond and Falcons pitcher Alfred Sutton climbed the hill first. Sutton proved he was sharp, pumping in strike after strike after strike. When the dust finally settled, Flatbush held a commanding 9-0 lead. Despite the long lay-off while Flatbush batted, Sutton stayed almost as keen in inning two as he was in inning one. In the bottom of the inning, Flatbush

added a run to its total without the benefit of a hit. The key play was an RBI sacrifice groundout by Jordan Senior to drive in Morris Betesh to make it a 10-0 game. After the third inning, Sutton yielded no hits and recorded four strikeouts. In the bottom of the third, infielder Solomon Franco laid down a most beautiful bunt, but the home plate umpire ruled that Franco stepped on home plate after executing his bunt – a violation according to baseball rules – and called him out, sending the runners back to first and second. The wind was sucked out of the Falcons’ sails. After three and a half innings of play, Columbus had cut the deficit to 11-2. Flatbush came to the plate but the wheels completely fell off the cart for the Lions’ pitching. The next three Falcons drew walks, plating three Flatbush runs. The Columbus coaches by mercy rule conceded the game. Flatbush had won, advancing to the Gold Medal winners bracket, and had a 7pm date with fellow top qualifier – and MYHSAL foe – the Frisch Cougars. After a restful few hours back at the Capital University dorms, it was time

to play game two of the day. The turning point of the second game happened when Victor Allaham hit a grounder to short, and Sol Laniado, having advanced to third on a stolen base, took off for home. It was a close play at the plate, but the home plate umpire claimed that Laniado never reached the plate and called him out at home. In the end, the Cougars advanced to Tuesday morning’s championship game on the wings of the 6-1 victory over the Falcons. It was not the result Flatbush had hoped for, but the night was not over. The boys returned to the dorm where they enjoyed a late night BBQ, courtesy of Coaches Eliott Zakay and Gus Kennedy, dining alongside friends old and new from coast to coast.

NEWS BITE

Racket Up The YOF Boys Tennis Team put their mark in the record books with a 3-2 win over Heschel Heat in the Finals of the 2017 MYHSAL Championship Playoffs at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, NY. The team has made the playoffs in each of the last four seasons.

New Soccer Goals for Middle Division Boys and Girls Teams

he Flatbush Middle Division Soccer teams dropped both ends of a Girls/Boys doubleheader with visiting Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) in early May, but along the way it was clear that the teams are continuing to improve. The MD Girls came in having faced the top team in the League for their first two games, and it was a little disheartening as the team from RYNJ was not only older, but significantly more experienced, and that showed in the end results of both contests. Nevertheless, the games served as great learning experiences for the young Falcons. Against YCQ, Flatbush was beginning to come together as a team. The final score of 10-4 showed that these Falcons came to play. Over the course of the contest, the Falcons found offensive leaders in Linda Gindi and Maya Garfinkel. Gindi recorded two goals for Flatbush with Garfinkel providing the assists. They were aided along the way by Leah Cohen and Jamie Shammah, each playing aggressive soccer and

scoring for the Falcons. Defensively, goalkeeper Joyce Ftiha came up with some amazing blocks in her efforts to keep the Falcons in scoring distance throughout the evening. The defense in front of her was anchored by Talya Shamoelian

and Barbara Dwek who worked hard to help keep the score close for a long stretch. The MD Boys took the floor next, coming off their season opening win at SSSQ and looking to build on that performance. From the outset, it was a defensive contest with YCQ. Jack Levy was a wall in goal, blocking several very hard shots. Along with the efforts of Jonathan Guy, the two anchored a defense that yielded

only two goals all game. Offensively, Flatbush was led by Aaron Vays and Jacob Ruben. Vays had a number of shots that just went wide, and Ruben did get one in the YCQ net for the Falcons. Unfortunately, it was the only score for Flatbush, and though the Falcons played a very solid game all evening, they could not get another score and fell by a final of 2-1. Afterwards, though disappointed with the final scores, both coaches were very pleased with their respective team’s overall performances. “The girls are really starting to come together,” remarked Middle Division Girls Assistant Coach Rachel Wortman. “They are beginning to understand game strategy and are applying the skills we stress in practice. If they keep on this path, I am confident good things will happen.” MD Boys Head Coach was equally excited about his team’s prospects for the remainder of the season. “The boys really impressed me tonight. They are working hard and the defense is really improving. I am really excited about the season!”

YOF Technology Tech Talk by Dr. Christine L. Coleman

his past year, students have been engaged in challenging technology-integrated lessons focused on blended and projectbased learning and hands-on STEM lessons. The Technology Department features both network technicians and educational technology integration developers to bridge connectivity and classroom integration of technology. Teachers use technology to support their lessons in Judaic and General Studies. YOF features a robust computer network and CLOUD computing environment to provide users with the connectivity they need to support teaching, learning and productivity. The YOF Instructional Technology Initiative is designed to move forward vigorously to integrate technology into the Pre-K through 12th grade curricula, including Torah studies, instructional methodologies, and professional development. This program will expand the scope, quality, and richness of teaching and learning to impact student achievement with measurable data. New for the 2017-18 school year, we will be expanding and upgrading our WiFi environment to state-of-the-art devices with even faster connectivity.

What is ST2EM (pronounced “STEM squared”)? ST2EM stands for Science, Technology, Torah, Engineering and Mathematics integrated into a framework, developed by Dr. Coleman, that helps teachers create integrated STEM lessons that cite Torah passages and introduce YOF students to STEM careers. The ST2EM framework is designed to be implemented with the TPACK (Technology, Pedagogy, Assessment and Content Knowledge) Model for technology-integrated lesson development. This framework requires the trainer and teacher to participate in 1:1 professional development training, weekly meetings, and shared documents, as well as educational research-based materials, lesson resources, and web sites. The ST2EM framework trains teachers to: • integrate videos, diagrams, images and websites to engage students in identifying a clear problem • make connections and inspire discussion by integrating Torah passages that align with the lesson theme • develop an assessment at the end of the lesson, to test for

YESH I VAH O F FL ATBU SH

ST EM 2

Science Technology Torah Engineering Math

understanding and ensure that the lesson objectives were met Elementary School • YOF is researching, designing, and developing Early Childhood Technology Center areas in classrooms for students in Pre-K and Kindergarten to use iPads for reading and math skills. • ITaLAM in 2nd grade builds on the strengths and success of the TaL AM Hebrew Studies curriculum to provide an internet-based curriculum that both challenges and engages the digital generation. It blends the print-based TaL AM with interactive games, songs, digital interactive books, and fun activities that create a multisensory learning experience. • 1:1 8th Grade iPad Program helps students prepare for college and equips them with career readiness skills while getting them ready for high school. • Achieve 3000 Accelerate Literacy, blended learning for students in 6th grade, provides the only patented, cloud-based solutions that deliver daily differentiated instruction for nonfiction reading and writing precisely tailored to each student’s

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Lexile® reading level. Students use the program both in school and at home. • State-of-the-Art Smart Space Computer Lab for exploring computer skills, coding, ST2EM, and robotics for grades 3-8. (New for 2017-18.)

Partners in Reading A group of High School and Elementary School students volunteered to discuss “Milkweed,” by Jerry Spinelli, for the last Partners in Reading event of the year. Students got to know one another over pizza and discussed the book’s plot and themes.

Classroom and Network Technology Integration: A Fine Balance Educational Technology, and Grant Writing for Technology. Dr. Coleman is a New York State Department of Education licensed School District Administrator and is licensed to teach Kindergarten through 6th grade. She has been an Adjunct Professor at Mercy College and Iona College and has taught Master’s level courses to school administrators and teachers in Educational Technology, School Leadership, Multicultural Education, and Assistive Technology for Special Educators.

• The Grade 8 Student Tech Squad learns about network and mobile technology support and provides troubleshooting assistance for our iPads and other devices in the Elementary School • iPad and Chromebook carts are used for project-based learning activities in classrooms as well as integrated into instruction. Joel Braverman High School • Many content areas feature digital interactive online textbooks to be used and blended into instruction in class and at home. • 1:1 iPad Technology for grades 11 and 12. • 1:1 Chromebooks for grades 9 and 10. (New for 2017-18.) • Computer Science & Coding elective. • Technology for students in the AP Spanish and AP Music courses to record their voices to practice speaking and singing skills. • New laptop carts for 2017-18.

r. Christine L. Coleman joined the Yeshivah of Flatbush in the 20162017 school year as the Director of Information Technology and K-12 Instructional Technology. Dr. Coleman has a Doctorate of Professional Studies in Computer Science and Networking and Educational Technology and K-12 Curriculum Development. She also has a Masters of Education in School Administration and Supervision, Masters of Science in K-12 Education, and more than 21 years of experience as a Director of Technology in five public schools in Westchester County. In her last position she was responsible for and managed a network of 14,000 users in 12 schools, as well as Student Information and Data Systems, Technology Professional Development for teachers and staff, E-rate Funding,

Our new director combines her experience with network infrastructure and engineering to support teaching, learning and productivity in classrooms. She states, “The position of Director of Technology in K-12 schools is a balance. The classroom technology must be integrated into the curriculum; teachers need ongoing professional development; and the network and WiFi access needs to be fast, stable and at an enterprise level to the users. All too often the Director of Information Technology and Director of Instructional Technology are two different positions, but it is critical that the network side supports the classroom integration of devices and the software side.” Dr. Coleman is excited to be part of the Yeshivah of Flatbush and has a three-year plan in place for upgrades and network expansion, classroom technology and professional development for teachers and staff.

YOF Faculty Learning Rabbi Joseph Blumenthal Completes The Teacher Institute’s Leadership Program

his year Rabbi Joseph Blumenthal, JBHS Judaic Studies Faculty, participated in The Teacher Institute’s Leadership Program for 40 Jewish international educators. Last summer, participants spent two weeks in Israel taking master’s level courses at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Mentors worked with the participants to develop a project to be implemented in their schools.

with Ms. Judy Snowbell Diamond, mentor and recruiter for the Teachers Institute and Educational Project Coordinator at the Florence Melton School, he restructured the unit, developed student-centered lessons, created themes, and picked specific mefarshim to teach that could relate to those themes. He also met with Rabbi Menachem Leibtag, one of the world’s foremost experts in Tanakh.

Rabbi Blumenthal selected a unit on Parashat Kedoshim from the 11th grade Chumash curriculum which included many mefarshim (commentaries) and challenging ideas for students but focused primarily on teacher instruction. Together

Rabbi Blumenthal began teaching this new curriculum last November and was amazed by the results at the end of the semester. Students were able to explain, in writing, the various meanings of kedusha, support their definitions with specific examples

from the perek and connect many of the pesukim to their lives. In May, at a colloquium conference in Boston, Rabbi Blumenthal presented his project to all of the other participants in the program and shared his successes. He explained his ideas of how to expand on the project in the future. Rabbi Blumenthal is grateful that the Yeshivah encouraged him to apply to this invaluable professional development opportunity and continues to be inspired by The Teacher Institute’s commitment to new initiatives and improving Jewish education.

Shelley Kaplowitz Awarded National Endowment of the Humanities Fellowship

oel Braverman High School Social Studies teacher Shelley Kaplowitz became one of only 16 grade school teachers nationwide to be awarded the National Endowment of the Humanities fellowship, which allows educators to study a particular discipline, for a seminar in Philadelphia this summer, titled, “What Did Independence Mean to Women, 1776-1886?”

The three-week seminar will study original documents at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, discuss period essays, and travel to relevant sites. It will explore how men and women interpret independence differently and how women’s experiences were shaped by their

racial, legal, and class statuses. The seminar will focus particular attention on the contrasting experiences of white and black women, seeing hierarchies of sex and race as the central challenges that a nation, in its first 100 years, confronted. Seminar participants will work on individual projects that will enable them to share what they learned with their classes. “I’m so honored to have won this prestigious Fellowship”, Ms. Kaplowitz said. “I think it’s a healthy thing for a teacher to go back into a classroom setting periodically and remind themselves what it felt like to be a student. The academic

challenges and rewards this program presents, the chance to work with peers from around the country and respected scholars in the field, and of course, the opportunity to bring valuable resources and skills back to my classroom is so exciting and I look forward to it all.”

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Celebrate Israel Parade YOF had a great turnout of students and faculty who joined the Celebrate Israel parade on June 4th. As strong as ever, our commitment to Israel was expressed in our banners, our enthusiasm and our participation in the greatest day of the year.

1st Annual YOF Teaching and Technology Summer Institute for Staff

his summer was the beginning of the YOF Teaching and Technology Summer Institute for staff. All classes in this voluntary program used the TPACK Model of Technology Integration which introduces strategies for engagement and classroom management. The classes were given in July to provide time for teachers to develop technology integrated lessons

to begin this fall in their classrooms. Education Technology Specialists in both the elementary and high school will follow up, coach and support teachers to help them implement the new program in their classrooms. The courses were developed by Director of Information Technology and K-12 Instructional Technology Dr. Christine L. Coleman, Elementary

School Director of Educational Technology Rabbi Yonah Krainess, and the SMART Board classes in partnership with Center for Jewish Education ( CIJE). Three Elementary School teachers are working on educational technology curriculum projects: Joan Silverman is working on New Computer Lab Curriculum Maps for Grades 3-8; Middle Division science teacher Fortune Terzi is focusing on ST2EM Lessons and 6th-8th grade STEM Resources for Teachers; and Lower Division science teacher Lauren Weiss, is working on ST2EM Lessons and grades K-3 STEM Resources for Teachers. We are proud of the 68 teachers (who teach grades 1-12) who participated in this exciting new tech opportunity!

Justin Engel Selected for Brandeis Fellowship Program

BHS Senior Grade Advisor and History Department faculty member Justin Engel was chosen for Brandeis University’s Teacher Leader Fellowship program. The course is a unique educational opportunity for exceptional educators at Jewish day schools who want to become effective teacher leaders without having to give up classroom teaching time. Participants will join talented and experienced teachers from a variety of school settings in a 13-month

course of study. The program prepares participants to use enhanced pedagogical practices that foster a collaborative culture leading to greater student and educator learning. Fellows will participate in rigorous face-to-face coursework during two three-week summer sessions at Brandeis, online coursework and continuous mentoring throughout the curriculum. This course organization allows teachers to study and practice essential leadership skills.

As a crowning project, program participants will complete a portfolio documenting their use of these emerging new teaching tools in their classrooms. “I look forward to a summer of inspiration and growth, and I am eager to come back to Flatbush and collaborate with my colleagues and share what I’ve learned,” says Mr. Engel.

YOF Chesed That’s a lot of Challah!

n May 16th, JBHS held a Grand Challah Bake at its final Cooking for a Cause event of the year, dedicated to the speedy and full recovery of Sarah bat Viviane. Special thank you to Ami and Dubby Sasson, who baked and delivered all 180 challot to the SBH Food Pantry! Cooking for a Cause, led by JBHS faculty member Mrs. Shifra Hanon, gives students the opportunity to learn how to prepare a variety of entrees, dinners, and desserts while participating in a chesed event. All of the food prepared in these events is sent to needy families who can then enjoy delicious homemade dinners.

Lower Division Chesed Campaign Raises Money for Hatzalah

ur annual Hatzalah chesed campaign was a huge success! Each child in Lower Division was encouraged to participate in donating five dollars or more to Hatzalah, and were told how Hatzalah would be using the money. Classes that had 100% student participation were awarded with a prize from Lower Division Associate Principal of Torah Studies Rivka Zaklikowski. Prizes were distributed during a safety assembly in June. Congratulations to the winning classes 4-332 and 3-206! Lower Division Faculty Member Leah Fink coordinated the project.

Aishel Shabbat

n March, Mrs. Leah Fink and Mrs. Orli Listman’s class 3-206, visited Aishel Shabbat, where they packed food for the needy. The students were eager to help and impressed the volunteers at the food pantry who commented on the enthusiasm and work ethic of our students. Students and teachers appreciated the show of support from parents in the class who came along to help with YOF’s mission.

NEWS BITE

Ladies Auxiliary Holds Bake Sale That Inspires The Ladies Auxiliary Edith Wachsman A”H Memorial Bake Sale, “Illuminate,” was held on May 4th in the home of Ruth and Mike Oved. Aside from delectable baked goods and creative salads, the event included a group of successful women invited for a panel discussion.

7th Annual Daniel Chernikoff A”H Memorial Hockey Tournament

ne Sunday in May each year holds special significance to Peggy and Allan Chernikoff, when the Yeshivah of Flatbush community gathers for the Daniel Chernikoff A”H Memorial Hockey Tournament and Day of Learning, in honor of their son. This year’s program was again a fitting tribute to Daniel, an ES 1999 and HS 2003 graduate, as it celebrated his love of Torah and learning and his passion for hockey.

The morning began with a delicious breakfast that was enjoyed by students, parents, family and friends. Following breakfast, JBHS Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser delivered an uplifting shiur. Teams were divided up and the first pucks hit the floor! The afternoon continued with exciting competition that was engaging for the players as well as spectators. Congratulations

to the winning team and to all who competed. May Daniel’s neshama have an Aliyah. Ladies Auxiliary Presidents Nicole Oved and Naomi Houllou helped coordinate the event. Staff, faculty and parents also want to say Mazel Tov to Mrs. Chernikoff on her retirement from the yeshivah after more than 25 years of dedicated service!

Israel U.N. Visitor Explains How He Fights for Israel at the Headquarters Every Day

s part of the eighth grade Israel Awareness Program, 8th grade students participated in an interactive session with Mr. Shimon Shmooely, the Chief of Staff to Israel’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations. Mr. Shmooely currently serves under Ambassador Danny Danon. Prior to assuming his current role, he served as an advisor to Israel’s Cabinet Secretary under Prime Minister

Benjamin Netanyahu. Mr. Shmooely’s daily responsibilities include preparing information and arranging scheduling for Ambassador Danon. He explained why most countries take a stand against Israel which, in turn, makes it easier to pass resolutions against Israel. He further spoke about the close relationship between Israel and the United States and what both countries have in common.

Mr. Shmooely concluded by encouraging the students to help make Israel have a stronger stake in the world by knowing the facts, educating others, visiting Israel and becoming members of the Friends of Israel. Following his presentation, Mr. Shmooely answered questions from the students and invited the eighth grade to tour the U.N. building in the future.

NEWS BITE

You’ve Got A Friend A group of juniors and seniors introduced visiting Israeli students in the Diller Teen Fellowship Program to some of their favorite neighborhood haunts and gave them a tour of JBHS. After Principal Rabbi Joseph Beyda’s address, the new friends wished each other fond farewells and enjoyed practicing Hebrew and English with each other.

Global Unity Torah Has 3,000 Letters Reserved by the YOF Elementary School!

lementary School faculty member and Leadership Program coordinator Rabbi Yaakov Herzberg announced an exciting opportunity for students and their families this year to inscribe letters in a Sefer Torah by doing acts of chesed. The Afikim Foundation joined forces with Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs, to write a Global Unity Sefer Torah celebrating the 50th anniversary of a reunified Jerusalem.

Jews everywhere inscribed letters in the Torah, not with money, but with simple acts of chesed. The Elementary School reserved 3,000 letters. Families reserved a letter by entering the act of chesed into the dedicated website. Once the act of kindness was registered, they received a personal certificate stating the name, the act of kindness performed, and the letter inscribed in the Sefer Torah. A digital file of all names and deeds will remain permanently with the Torah.

The Global Unity Torah has been completed at this time, and many YOF families reserved letters. It is especially noteworthy that the 3,000 letters YOF reserved were all in Parashat Vayeirah, the Parashah portraying the great hospitality and acts of chesed of Avraham Avinu who, even though he was ill and suffering, went out of his way to seek guests to host in his tent. Avraham was the epitome of chesed.

Yom Hazikaron Lets Students Reflect on Fallen Heroes

he Middle Division commemorated Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day, with a touching program. After the presentation and lowering of six Israeli flags, the students stood for two minutes of silence to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by close to 25,000 Israeli soldiers since the creation of the State of Israel. The guest speaker, Rabbi Yisrael Serok, was born and raised in Israel but will spend the next two years in the United States with his wife who is part of the World Zionist Organization Mission to North America. He described the commitment that the youth of Israel naturally have to protect and defend their country. The Rabbi hinted at secret missions that he took part in and the injury he sustained during an IDF operation.

He recalled how losing members of his own unit was a terrible heartbreak for him. The video showed how Israel was forced many times over to defend herself in various wars. We mourned, along with our brothers and sisters in Israel, the loss of so many soldiers who died in defense of Eretz Yisrael. For Lower Division students, faculty member Rabbi Shilo Sharoni and three students from class 5-334 gave an audio presentation over the loudspeaker about the importance of Yom Hazikaron and recited the Kel Malek Rachmim prayer. Each class lit a memorial candle for the fallen soldiers and were reminded what bravery is about.

Yeshivah of Flatbush

Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School 919 East 10th Street Brooklyn, NY 11230 718-377-4466

Yeshivah of Flatbush 919 East 10th Street 919 East 10th Street Brooklyn, NY 11230 Brooklyn, NY 11230

Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School Al and Sonny Gindi Campus Yeshivah of Flatbush 1609 Avenue J Elementary School Brooklyn, NY 11230 919 East 10th Street 718-377-1100

Brooklyn, NY 11230 718-377-4466

We are proud of our for their commitment to higher education, Congratulations tostudents Our Graduates on andEarly we salute our dedicated, highly professional faculty for preparing Their College Acceptances and inspiring them for their next phase in life. We congratulate our

We are proud of our students and their parents for their commitment to graduates for gaining acceptance into the following schools: higher education, and we salute our dedicated, highly professional faculty and college counselors for preparing and inspiring for their next • Adelphi University • Newthem York Institute of Technology phase in life. To date, our graduates have been accepted for admission • Babson College • New York University into •these EarlyCollege Decision or Early Action programs of their choice: Barnard • Northeastern University • Baruch College (Honors, Dean’s Scholars) • Pace University • Barnard College • Pace University • Bentley University • Pennsylvania State University • Binghamton University • University of Pennsylvania • Binghamton University • Princeton University • Drexel University • Borough of Manhattan Community College• Princeton • QueensUniversity College • Fordham University • Rutgers University • Boston University • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute • Indiana University at Bloomington • St. John’s University • Brandeis University • Rhodes College • LIM CollegeCommunity College • SUNY at Albany • Bronx • Rutgers University • Brooklyn College (Scholars) • Sarah Lawrence • Long Island University • Syracuse University College • City College • St. Johns University • Marymount Manhattan College • The Israel Experience • College of Staten Island • Stony Brook • New York University • The New SchoolUniversity • Drew University • Suffolk University • Northeastern University • Drexel University • SUNY at Albany • Emerson College • SUNY Broome Community College • Fashion Institute of Technology • SUNY Buffalo State College • Fordham University • SUNY Geneseo Meet Our New Executive Director — • Grinnell College • SUNY Old Westbury • Rabbi Guttman Community College Dr. Jeffrey Rothman • Syracuse University • Hofstra University • The Cooper Union for the • Hunter College (Scholars) Science & Art e are excited toAdvancement announce the of appointment • Indiana University at Bloomington The New School as - Eugene of Rabbi Dr. •Jeffrey Rothman our newLang College • John Jay * Parsons School Design Executive Director, effective July 3, 2017.ofRabbi Dr. • Johns Hopkins University • Touro CollegeHaTorah Day Rothman comes to us from Netivot School in Toronto, Ontario, he was Head of • Kingsborough Community College • Tulanewhere University School. While there, he was a driver of the -school’s • Lehman College • University at Buffalo SUNY growth and success by focusing on institutional • LIM College • University of Connecticut every aspect • Long Island University advancement and professionalism • University of in Hartford of the school experience. He will bring to Flatbush • Macaulay Honors College at: • University of Maryland his passion for excellence, as he refines the organizational culture and * Baruch College * Brooklyn College • University of Massachusetts, Amherst structure of our school. * City College * Hunter College • University of Michigan • Marymount Manhattan College • University of Pennsylvania Rabbi Dr. Rothman and his wife Lauren reside in Woodmere with their • Muhlenberg four children,College Zev, Aliza, Kovi and Dovid. • Yeshiva University (Honors) • New York City Technical College • York College

Yeshivah Flatbush Rabbi Dr.ofJeffrey Rothman Joel Braverman High School EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Al and Sonny Gindi Campus Robert Frastai 1609 Avenue J PRESIDENT Brooklyn, NY 11230 718-377-1100 YOF BULLETIN STAFF Michelle Olveira

Robert Frastai EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PRESIDENT Faith Edeson YOF BULLETIN STAFF EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Michelle PUBLIC Olveira RELATIONS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ilana Lax Faith Edeson DIRECTOR OF MARKETING EDITORIAL ASSISTANT AND COMMUNICATIONS

PUBLIC RELATIONS TECHNOLOGY Ilana Lax Dr. Christine L. Coleman

DIRECTOR MARKETING DIRECTOROF OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY AND INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION JOEL BRAVERMAN HIGH SCHOOL Susan Berger

ALUMNI COORDINATOR Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari HEAD OF SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL JOEL BRAVERMAN Rabbi Dr. Joseph Beyda Rabbi Raymond Harari PRINCIPAL JBHS HEAD OF SCHOOL Sari Bacon Rabbi Joseph Beyda ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL PRINCIPAL Esther Hidary Jill Sanders

ASSISTANTPRINCIPAL PRINCIPAL ASSOCIATE / DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS Rabbi Craig Lubner ASSISTANT Sari Bacon PRINCIPAL

ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL Rabbi Dr. David Eliach PRINCIPAL EMERITUS Esther Hidary ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL SCHOOL YOF ELEMENTARY

Rabbi David Eliach Rabbi Dr. Lawrence Schwed

PRINCIPAL EMERITUS HEAD OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

YOF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg PRINCIPAL, MIDDLE DIVISION Rabbi Lawrence Schwed

HEAD OFBerkman ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Robert PRINCIPAL OF GENERAL STUDIES Robert Berkman PRINCIPAL OF GENERAL STUDIES Debra Miller ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL, Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg GENERAL STUDIES MIDDLE DIVISION PRINCIPAL RivkaGoldberg Zaklikowski Toba

ASSOCIATEPRINCIPAL PRINCIPAL, ASSOCIATE TORAH STUDIES

Rivka Zaklikowski

Debbie Levine Greenbaum ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL DIRECTOR, EARLY CHILDHOOD TORAH STUDIES, LOWER DIVISION

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