A monkey, a penguin, an elephant, a fish in a bowl, a seal, and a dog all stand in a line before a man seated at a desk. Behind them is a large tree. “For a fair selection,” the man announces, “everybody has to take the same exam. Please climb that tree.” This well-known image illustrates a powerful truth. The absurdity is clear, how can we expect…

In this week’s parsha, we learn that Hashem instructed the Jewish people to bring gifts for the construction of the Mishkan, and that every person had a role to play: "Let them make for Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them". The contributions varied, from the skilled craftsmen who worked with gold, silver, and precious stones, to the simple gifts of fabric or wool brought by those with more limited resources. It wasn’t the size or the value of…

In this week’s parshah we read about the giving of the Torah on Har Sinai. The Jewish people receive the Aseres Hadibros - the Ten Commandments - foundational principles shaping Jewish life. When taken beyond their literal context they guide us in parenting and education, offering…

The 2024-2025 school year has brought more than just a few changes to the school.  The school is growing, new classes are being added, new teachers are joining the staff, and more opportunities for students are being provided.  One such addition has been the built-in weekly schedule of electives on Wednesday afternoons. 

Electives in elementary and middle school offer opportunities and challenges, particularly in smaller schools where resources and student choice can be limited.  While students in a larger setting may select electives that reflect their interests, our small school adapts the…