The Dean's Blog: What a day!

On the Goals of Jewish Education

"Our goal should be to make it possible for every Jewish person, child or adult, to be exposed to the mystery and romance of Jewish history, to the enthralling insights and special sensitivities of Jewish thought, to the sanctity and symbolism of Jewish existence, and to the power and profundity of Jewish faith. As a motto and declaration of hope, we might adapt the dictum that says, ‘They searched from Dan to Beer Sheva and did not find an ‘am ha’aretz" ‘Am ha’aretz, usually understood as an ignoramus, an illiterate, may for our purposes be defined as one indifferent to Jewish visions and values, untouched by the drama and majesty of Jewish history, unappreciative of the resourcefulness and resilience of the Jewish community, and unconcerned with Jewish destiny. Education, in its broadest sense, will enable young people to confront the secret of Jewish tenacity and existence, the quality of Torah teaching which fascinates and attracts irresistibly. They will then be able, even eager, to find their place in a creative and constructive community."

From "A Time to Act," by Professor Isadore Twersky, the late Talner Rebbe, Nathan Littauer Professor of Hebrew Literature and Philosophy at Harvard University, and member of the Commissionon Jewish Education in North America. Presented at a meeting of the Commision on June 12, 1990.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

What a day!

It all started with the Boys High School launching it's Sukkah Wars right after davening this morning during which three teams split to learn the intricacies of hilchot sukkah and then set out to build one which incorporated as many of the halachot as possible. From there it was the lower school's turn to celebrate Sukkot with an assembly that featured a performance from Mrs. Kugielsky's new Music and Dance program, a story from Rabbi Kugielsky, and dancing to the music of our Junior High band. Then it was on to edible sukkah making in 4th grade, Simchat Torah marching in Pre-K, model sukkah judging and a whole host of other activities. Who knew school could be so much fun...