The Yitzchok Approach: Nurturing an Innate Bond with Hashem
The Yitzchok Approach: Nurturing an Innate Bond with Hashem
By Rabbi Yale New
The Torah tells us that Yishmael's bris milah took place at thirteen years old, an age when he could consciously agree to the mitzvah. In contrast, Yitzchok’s bris milah was performed when he was just eight days old, long before he could understand or consent. At first glance, Yishmael’s experience seems more impressive, as it reflects a conscious choice. Why, then, does the Torah instruct us to perform a bris, like Yitzchok's, at eight days old for all future generations?
It might seem logical to wait until a child is older so they can understand and willingly embrace the mitzvah of bris milah. However, the Torah teaches us that the timing of Yitzchok's bris holds profound significance and represents a deep truth: the connection between a Jew and Hashem is intrinsic to the child's essence, requiring no prior understanding. A bris at eight days old reflects the unconditional nature of this connection to Hashem.
This idea offers a valuable perspective on parenting and education. Just as we don’t wait for a child to understand the need for food, clothing, or shelter before providing these essentials, we shouldn’t wait for them to comprehend Torah and Mitzvos before introducing them to, and fostering, their relationship with Hashem.
When raising children, adopting the "Yitzchok approach" is crucial. Of course, we strive for our children to grow in their understanding and appreciation of Torah and Mitzvos as they mature. However, their connection with Hashem doesn’t depend on intellectual readiness or comprehension. It is part of their essence and identity from the very beginning.
This is the beauty of the Yitzchok approach: it gives our children the gift of growing up rooted in their essential relationship with Hashem, Torah, and Mitzvos, fostering a bond that will continue to flourish throughout their lives.
Good Shabbos.
Rabbi Yale New
Blessing and Greeting:
. . .The Tzemach Tzedek, as is well known, was a giant among the giants of the Torah of his time, the recognized authority on Halocho as well as on Chassidus and Kabbolo, as his many works attest. In addition, he was the Manhig of the generation who had, on more than one occasion, been invited by the government in Petersburg for consultations on the Jewish position. It is easy to imagine how very busy he was. Nevertheless, he used to tear himself away from his own studies and writings, and from his many public duties, in order to examine his small grandchildren once a month in order to determine their progress. He also gave them monetary prizes, in order to stimulate them to further accomplishments.
Since we have been told this story in the life of the Tzemach Tzedek, it is clear that it contains a message for each and every one of us. It is that no sacrifice should be too great in our efforts in the cause of Chinuch, especially the education and upbringing of the younger generation.
Judaic Assessments
The Judaic Standardized Assessments at CMCA are key tools for understanding student progress in core subjects like Chumash, Halacha, Kriah, Yideos Klalios, and Gemara.
This week, CMCA students worked diligently on their first assessment for the year, showing remarkable progress across all areas. The assessment data highlighted consistent improvement and helped teachers pinpoint specific areas to target for continued growth. These insights will also be given to parents and students, fostering a strong partnership in learning.
The Judaic assessments at CMCA are instrumental in raising the standards of Judaic academics and rigor across all students, giving us the ability to understand each student's individual progress and use that knowledge to support each child in their growth.
Basketball Season Jump-Off
The CMCA Flames Basketball team is off to a fantastic start! Both our boys' and girls' teams have already had a couple of practices, and it's been amazing to see them working together as a team with great sportsmanship, energy, and enthusiasm for a fun season ahead.
This week, the boys played their first game at Ridgeview Middle School. While they didn’t come away with a win, they showed hard work, commitment, and focus on the court, making us all proud. There are more games coming up next week ande invite you to come out and support and cheer on our boys’ and girls’ teams at the next game.
Thank you to Coach Dom and Coach Yazzy for all the time and effort they’ve dedicated to practicing with the team, building the players’ skills and confidence, and for all the work they’ve done behind the scenes to prepare the logistics for a great season. Thank you as well to Abigail Simpson for her help and support.
Go Flames!
Hands-On Learning: Second Graders Discover the Holiness of Torah
As part of their preparation to begin learning Chumash, the second graders recently participated in the annual Safrus Workshop with Rabbi Sollish, arranged by Mrs. Jacobson. The workshop is part of their Hachana L’chumash unit, designed to give the students an understanding of the holiness of a Chumash and the significance of the text inside, explaining that the words in a Chumash are the same as those in a Torah scroll. The girls took a special trip to the Beis Midrash, where they had the opportunity to look inside a Sefer Torah. To further their learning, Rabbi Sollish shared fascinating information about the process of writing a Torah, including the special quill, ink, and parchment used by a sofer. They also learned about the number of letters in the Torah and how long it takes for a sofer to complete the writing.
Each student was given a quill dipped in ink and was able to write her name on paper. This memorable experience was an exciting and meaningful step in their journey as they prepare to start learning Chumash.
School Pride Assembly
Our monthly school assemblies have quickly become a highlight for students. In November, we came together for an assembly focused on school pride. During the event, students heard remarks from the principals, who reminded everyone of the communal effort we’re putting in during recess to be kind, inclusive, and demonstrate good sportsmanship. We also recognized classes that have been exemplifying these values.
Following this, we said psukim together, listened to an engaging story, and participated in fun, high-energy team-building activities that brought everyone together. A special thank you to Dr. Saeed for organizing the assembly and the games, to Mrs. Adelman and Rabbi Rahmani for sharing the story, and to all the teachers for their involvement in making the event memorable and for helping to build school spirit.
Shafur Article
Rabbi Sollish gave a safrus workshop to 2nd grade class.
I'm their introduction to the chumash unit , the girls have been learning all about the holiness of the sefer torah . so it's was wonderful to see all they've been learning in real life! The Girls enjoyed trying our the feather and ink!
Wounded IDF Soldiers visit CMCA
Last Friday, November 8, we had the privilege of hosting two incredible IDF soldiers, Tom and Steve, who shared powerful stories of bravery, resilience, and dedication to Eretz Yisrael and the Jewish people.
Middle School students and teachers were deeply moved by their presentations. The students had the opportunity to ask questions, as well as present the soldiers with a card expressing appreciation for their commitment and sacrifices on behalf of the entire CMCA. After their presentation, the soldiers graciously walked through the school, visiting classrooms and connecting with younger students who were thrilled to meet these heroes in person.
Students had created heartfelt thank-you cards filled with messages of love and appreciation, which they gave to Tom and Steve. First Grade Girls prepared songs for the soldiers. The soldiers were touched by the cards and well-wishes and will be taking them back to Israel to share with other IDF soldiers.
Spelling Bee
We’re excited to share that Chaya Mushka Chabad Academy is hosting a Spelling Bee! This event goes beyond competition; it’s an enriching academic exercise that encourages students to engage deeply with language, build their vocabulary, and strengthen spelling and comprehension skills.
Throughout the week, students will have in-class spelling bees, which provide a wonderful opportunity for them to apply the vocabulary and spelling strategies they’ve been learning. The time they spend studying words and their meanings will support them academically, improving their reading and writing abilities and enhancing their overall language skills.
We’re proud of their hard work and focus on this academic journey, and we thank you for your encouragement and support in helping them reach their full potential.
Student Of The Month
The Student of the Month award recognizes students who have stood out to their teachers for showing respect and good middos, as well as excellence in academics. Mazel Tov to:
Adel Zakon
Bonnie Chitrik
Shaina Sharfstein
Tzvi Hertz
Zelda Slavaticki
Dovid Groner
Rashi Frankforter
Aaron Zakon
Sarah Bodnar
Koby Friedman
Chana Antopolsky
Levi Gurary
Chaya Pawliger
Levi Groner
Sophie Mason
NOTE ON RESPONSIVE CLASSROOM
The Responsive Classroom Approach, which all of our teachers have been implementing in the classrooms this year, addresses five Social & Emotional Competencies: Cooperation, Assertiveness, Responsibility, Empathy and Self Control.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been working in school on fostering better inclusivity and sportsmanship during recess. These skills are essential for building a strong, respectful community where every child feels valued and included. To help reinforce these lessons at home, here are some practical strategies you can use to encourage your child to include others in play and practice good sportsmanship during competitive games.
Model Inclusive Behavior
Children learn by observing. Demonstrate inclusivity in your own interactions by being welcoming and open to people of all backgrounds.
Use inclusive language, such as “Let’s make sure everyone feels included” or “How can we invite more friends to join?”
Role-play scenarios where your child invites a classmate or friend to join in play. Provide simple phrases they can use, such as:
“Want to play with us?”
“We could use another player for our game. Want to join?”
Create Family Values Around Inclusion: Develop family mottos like “In our family, we make sure everyone feels welcome” or “We always treat others the way we want to be treated.”
Encourage Reflection and Problem-Solving: If your child excludes others, guide them to reflect:
“What happened?”
“How do you think they felt?”
“What could you do differently next time?”
Set Clear Expectations: Remind your child of expectations before social situations:
“Remember, let’s make sure everyone has a chance to play.”
Be an Ally: Teach your child to notice and support classmates who might feel left out. Encourage them to be the one who extends kindness first.
Mazal tov to our students and staff celebrating their birthday this month:
STAFF
Natelya Hayden-Eubanks 11/24
Craig Warner 11/28
STUDENTS
Chana Groner - 17 Kislev
Ahuva Edelson - 4 Kislev
Gabriel Khanukaev - 13 Cheshvan
Eli Lipskier - 1 Kislev
Aharon Moshe Meyerowitz - 1 Kislev
Koby Friedman - 26 Cheshvan
Zevi New - 16 Cheshvan
Chaya Freedman - 17 Cheshvan
Efraim Brafman - 21 Cheshvan
Rochel Loebenstein - 16 Cheshvan
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