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Message from Matt King
I am pleased to make two announcements regarding staffing for the academic year 2008-2009. First, after three years in the position of Division Director for K-2, Serena Androphy will return to the classroom as a Hebrew teacher for students with special learning needs. We are so excited to have such a talented faculty member undertaking this important work. Second, Heidi Chapple will be the new K-2 Division director. Heidi will bring her many years of successful teaching in Grade 1, as well as this year of course work in an educational leadership program, to this position. It has been my pleasure to work with Heidi as her mentor this year, and I am confident about her readiness to step into this new role.
Please join us in congratulating Serena and Heidi!
Matt King, Head of School |
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Bullying Prevention Program Off to a Great Start at Rashi!
Bullying exists in all schools. At Rashi, we are lucky that we lack the severity of incidents that occur in other schools. We are also lucky to be implementing a program to directly address and diminish bullying behavior. Finally, we are lucky that this cause is of utmost importance to everyone in the Rashi community. This was especially evident at our Olweus Bullying Prevention Program Parent information night, which took place on Wednesday, February 27. We were extremely excited to see that over 80 people were able to attend! It was the second of three steps involved in the kickoff of this program. The first was a staff training during our professional day on February 4, and the third will be a school wide kickoff with students during the week of March 3.
The Olweus Bullying Prevention Program is exciting to us here at Rashi because it is comprehensive, meaning it provides prevention, education, and intervention tools at the individual, classroom, school, and community level. The Olweus program also allows each school to create its own version of the program, and therefore we are able to implement the program from a Jewish perspective. Further, the program relies on an active, continuous partnership between parents and the school. We invite you to contact your child's teacher, division director, school psychologist Meredith Cohen, Kristen Herbert or Matt King if and when you have any type of concern about bullying from this point forward. In addition, if you were not able to attend the program on February 27, please contact Meredith Cohen (x239 or mcohen@rashi.org) for handouts and additional information.
Thank you to our bullying prevention committee for all their efforts: Amy Rutstein-Riley, Barbara Litwin, Deborah Freed, Serena Androphy, Melissa Holman, Amy Gold, Jessica Solomon, Marshall Carter, Joni Fishman, Carolyn Bloomberg-O'Brien, Rabbi Ellen Pildis, Stephanie Rotsky, Meredith Cohen, and Kristen Herbert.
Thank you for partnering with us on this important work! |
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Grades 3-5 Happenings
It's hard to believe, but March is literally just around the corner. Although it doesn't look like spring outside, it is starting to feel like spring at Rashi with all of the preparations that are beginning for spring curricular units. Next week, third graders will be on stage for their annual spring performance of Aesop's fables. Students have been working on this project since early January when they began by reading and analyzing fables.Next, students chose which fable they wanted to write and perform. They worked in cooperative groups to write their fables and then practiced how to act them out. Along the way, they practiced important skills such as working in groups, and speaking publicly.
Another sign of spring, fourth grade will be starting its study of the Joseph stories in a few weeks. Fourth graders will begin studying these parashiot in depth. They will apply themes and skills from fourth grade language arts to understand the perspectives of the patriarchs in the Joseph story. As a culmination and celebration for completing the study of a book of Torah, fourth graders will combine their theatrical, linguistic, musical and analytical skills to perform selections from different parashiot in the book of Genesis in their siyuum beresheit in June.
Fifth graders are chomping at the bit to begin their Nationality Day projects. Classrooms are abuzz with students discussing their countries and how they are making their flags. Of course, many students are eager to pick which food they will be serving. But as the weeks go by, children come to realize that the food is just a small detail in the scope of a large-scale language art projects. Many people don't realize that Nationality Day is not a part of the fifth grade social studies curriculum. In fact, it's main focus is to strengthen and broaden students' expository writing skills by having them write and edit all different types of pieces - everything from biographies of famous citizens to descriptions of the landscape and geography of the country. Nationality Day culminates in a large fair in June.
These three special events in our division share a common theme; they teach children the importance and efficacy of organization, long range planning, and hard work. And of course, there is the pride and memories that last long past students' third, fourth, and fifth grade years. Just ask a Rashi eighth grader or a graduate about highlights from their years here, and I guarantee, one of these events will be on the list.
Amy Gold, Division Director |
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Extended Day
Marissa Keleher grew up in Dedham, MA. She spent several years at the New England Hebrew Academy, and later attended Bryant College in Rhode Island where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration. Marissa lives with her husband, Kevin, and their dog, Roscoe, in Millis. After several years of working in the business world, Marissa joined the Rashi community as a third grade assistant teacher. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in elementary education at Emmanuel College and will graduate in May.
Marissa feels very fortunate to be part of the Rashi community. "Having the opportunity to work with such wonderful students and colleagues every day is amazing. I am so happy that I made the switch into education." In her spare time, Marissa can be found reading a good book, judging cheerleading competitions, or teaching her extended day hip-hop elective! |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Annual Dinner and How it Relates to Rashi's 2007-2008 Annual Appeal
What is the Rashi Annual Dinner?
The Annual Dinner is a fundraising event that serves as an important source of revenue for Rashi (to meet our Annual Appeal fundraising goal this year, the Dinner must raise over $300,000 net of expenses). It is also an excellent way to introduce the school to the outside community and expand our network of relationships and financial support.
When and where will the Annual Dinner be held this year?
The Dinner will be held on Tuesday, May 20th at Congregation Mishkan Tefila in Chestnut Hill. We will honor Rashi grandparents and community leaders, Marjorie and Bert Paley.
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices are $250 per person. For tax purposes, the deductible portion of the cost will be $120 per ticket ($130 is the value of the food and beverages provided).
In the past, levels of giving for the Annual Appeal offered complimentary tickets to the Dinner as a benefit. Why is this no longer the case?
It's true that we used to offer tickets to donors who gave earlier in the year. We made this change in order to comply with IRS requirements, which stipulate that when a donor receives goods or services in return for their gift, the amount they may deduct for tax purposes is reduced by the value of the benefit.
I recall, however, that I am entitled to a complimentary ad in the Dinner tribute book based on the total level of my Annual Appeal giving this school year. How does that work?
The response card included with your invitation will have a space for Rashi parents to indicate that they wish to place an ad based on the gift they gave to the Annual Appeal earlier this year. The pricing structure reflected in the invitation will correspond to the benefits communicated via the Annual Appeal brochure, articles in Daf Kesher and solicitation letters.
So, if I am interested in supporting Rashi, but need to allocate my expenses carefully, what should I do?
The best scenario for Rashi would be if you make an outright gift to the Annual Appeal AND buy two tickets (or more, or a table) to the Annual Dinner.
We certainly understand that this may not be financially feasible for everyone. In that case, please support the Annual Appeal in whatever way you can, whether with an outright gift or buying tickets when you receive your invitation to the Dinner.
How do I register to attend the Annual Dinner?
You will receive an invitation by mail in mid-March. Just fill out the reply card, include your payment, and mail it back in the return envelope that will be provided.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your personal situation further, please call 617-969-7300 extension 236 or stop by the Advancement Office on the 2nd floor across from the Main Office. |
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Critical Minds and Compassionate Hearts: A Snapshot of our Martin Luther King, Jr./ Civil Rights Learning in Grades K - 5
You shall not stand idly by the blood of thy neighbor: I am Adonai.
- Leviticus 19:16
The mission of the Rashi School is to nurture critical minds and compassionate hearts. It is a tall order that as teachers we are committed to and take seriously every day. Our all-school Martin Luther King, Jr./Civil Rights Curriculum focus each year exemplifies how our mission is being realized and illuminates how a school community can approach a multi-layered theme and create deep and creative learning opportunities for students of all ages.
Third grade students studied "BIG WORDS" of the Civil Rights Movement by delving more deeply into the powerful words of Martin Luther King, Jr. and by analyzing the lyrics of songs from that era such as "If I Had a Hammer," "Down by the Riverside," "Wade in the Water," "Keep Your Eyes on the Prize" and "This Little Light of Mine." Students examined each of these songs and identified specific words and phrases that symbolized a deeper meaning about what was happening during that time. A culminating activity involved students creating an artistic representation of one lyric that spoke to them in a powerful way.
Kindergarten students examined what it means to be fair and wrote messages for their Freedom Signs that expressed concrete examples of how to be fair in their classroom. Life-size silhouettes of kindergarten students holding these signs were spotlighted all over the first floor. Examples of their messages included: Ask people what they want; be nice to the guinea pigs and everyone; Don't tell everyone what your friend brought for Treasure Key; Don't harm people; Don't tease friends about snacks; Share legos, and Share blocks.
Second graders examined the concept of freedom through doing a Web visual. Branching out from the word freedom were such words as MLK, the Holocaust, the Declaration of Independence, Passover, and "Negro" and the south. From those examples came other examples. An arrow to "MLK Jr." says: Why did he get killed? Maybe because they didn't like what he was saying. Another arrow to MLK, Jr. says: Why would MLK be sent to jail if he was trying to help people? And why would white people be so mean? Were they afraid that black people would rise up against them?
They also studied this year's MLK -Jewish text by examining and brainstorming other words for three key ideas in the text: What do "neighbor," "blood," and "do not stand" mean? Students thought "do not stand" could mean: get up and help others, get an ambulance, help them, call mom or dad, clean it up, call for help. Students replaced the word "blood" with being bullied, being sick, dying, feeling embarrassed, having hurt feelings. And students defined neighbor as someone you know, someone you care about or love, people living in your community, a friend, someone you love who is special to you, someone who has similar interests as you, any person. As students decoded the Hebrew words and dug deeply into the possible messages of this text, they came away with three directives: Pay attention! Speak out! Take Action!
First graders connected with the themes of segregation, fairness and judging others as well as the mitzvot of gemilut hasadim and v'ahavta l'reicha K'mocha as they were introduced to several books during the month of January and February as part of their weekly children's literature social justice focus. Students listened to and discussed the booksThe Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson, Gorilla Gorilla! by Jeanne Willis and Tony Ross, Mr. Lincoln's Way by Patricia Polacco, Goin' Someplace Special by Patricia McKissack and Meggie Moon by Elizabeth Baguley.
Fourth graders connected this year's text study and its themes of "not standing idly by the blood of another person" to examining the morning tefila Elu D'varim - these are the obligations without measure. Students created their "Freedom Signs" this year incorporating wisdom learned from this powerful tefila that outlines and reminds us of specific ways we can stand up for others and take care of them. Some of their signs said: Honor your parents, Visit the sick, Celebrate with the bride and groom, Attend funerals, Respect God, and Pray.
Fifth graders focused their learning on South African Jewish Activists and what it means to be an activist today. Connected to celebrating the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr., and this year's Leviticus text, Glenda Speyer gave a brief overview to the students of the Apartheid Era in South Africa and shared her own personal experiences as a South African during that time. Students questioned why so many Jews involved themselves in the political issues of South Africa, and they came to further understand what activism really is. While practicing the writing of paragraphs, students were asked to share stories about family members or friends who were/are activists for various causes. Their learning culminated with the Spotlight on Activists Program that spotlights parents and extended family members and friends of fifth grade students to share their stories of activism.
Our MLK-Civil Rights learning this past January was powerful and meaningful -- deepening our commitment to nurture Critical Minds and Compassionate Hearts.
Stephanie Rotsky, Social Justice Coordinator | |
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February 28, 2008/22 Adar 1 5768 |
Beauty and the Beast
Fri., Feb. 29 at 1:15
Sun., Mar. 2 at 7 pm |
| Parent-Teacher Conferences
Thursday,
March 13
No classes |
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Coming Up |
Feb. 29
Gr. 8 Hebrew Play: Beauty and the Beast 1:15 pm
Mar. 2
JDSL Middle School Basketball Tournament beginning at 10 am at Gann Academy
Gr. 8 Hebrew Play: Beauty and the Beast 7 pm
Mar. 5
Gr. 3 Play "Aesop's Fables" at 2 pm and 7 pm
Mar. 6
Pizza Thursday
Mitzvah Makers at HSL: Getting Ready for Purim
Mar. 7
Rosh Hodesh Adar II
Rockin' Shabbat with Jon Nelson
Mar. 10 - 14
Tamchui Education Week
Mar. 12
Tamchui Assembly
Mar. 13 -- Parent-Teacher Conferences -- No classes
Mar. 14
Pi Day
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Come support the Girls and Boys basketball teams this Sunday, March 2 at Gann Academy
The first game is at 10 am -- please check the schedule on our website! |
New Building Plans
 Come see the exciting new designs for our Dedham campus! They are displayed in the second floor lobby (between the main office and the advancement office). |
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Lower School
Talent Show
This year's Lower School Talent Show, on February 15, 2008, was a huge success! Look for more photos on the website soon!
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ANNUAL DINNER
Save the Date of
Tuesday, May 20
for Rashi's Annual Dinner
honoring Rashi grandparents
Marjorie and Bert Paley
For more information, go to
Annual Dinner
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New on the Website
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A lot is new on this week at www.rashi.org
Tuition information:
Tuition and Tuition Assistance info is now linked to the Parent page. Go to: Rashi Parents
Rashi in the News
The article on Rashi's MLK Family Service Day program in this week's Jewish Advocate is now linked to our website:
Rashi in the News
New Photo Gallery
Did you know that Rashi students go to the Baldwin School in Cambridge every week to spend time with their reading buddies?
See photos at:
Jewish Community Literacy
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Yachad
We hope everyone had a restful vacation and was able to spend some time with loved ones. We started off the week with a bang by serving a fabulous lunch for teachers and staff. The parent community came out in force to provide a wonderful treat for everybody. Salad and desserts were the words of the day. As always, the dynamic duo, Jim Blankstein and Nancy Shaich, made the day a huge success!!
A huge thank you to the following people for your outstanding contributions:
Anne Blumberg, Nancy Buck, Andrea Federmann, Laurie Gershkowitz, Laurie Gliklich, Andrea Goldberg, Lisa Goodman, Debbie Kadish, Linda Kaplan, Lori Krasner, Rabbi David B. Kudan, Wendy Landon, Dena Rashes, Lisa Ross, Laura Sternberger.
Calling all Grade 4, 5 and 6 parents: Please join us on Tuesday, April 1 at 7 pm for a special presentation by Rabbi Ellen and Meredith Cohen entitled "Menschlechkite and the Pre-Adolescent: Are they mutually exclusive?" Stay tuned for more details and flyers.
Are you interested in learning more about a topic? Let us know and we'll see if we can organize it.
Pizza Lunch: Thursday, March 6
Rosh Chodesh: Adar Bet: Friday, March 7
Challah Delivery: every Friday morning
Andie Insoft & Susan Altman
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A Few Reminders from the Nurse
IT IS STILL WINTER -- send jackets, snow pants, hats, gloves, boots etc. for outdoor recesses
THE CHILDREN ARE STILL GROWING -- send enough food for snack and lunch be sure the containers are tight enough to prevent spilling but still able to be opened
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLES ARE GREAT
CHECK YOUR ORDERS FOR LUNCHES AND PIZZA DATES
CONTINUE TO CHECK YOUR OWN CHILDREN'S HEADS OFTEN
Coral Ambuter, R.N., School Nurse |
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Community News
Shenani Ganns' Spring Benefit A Capella Concert , Mar. 1 at 8 pm, Gann Academy, Waltham, MA.
Come and learn more about JCC Maccabi Camp Kingswood at the Open House at the Leventhal-Sidman JCC in Newton! Sun., March 16, 2008, 2-4 pm. For more information, call 617.558.6528, email info@kingswood.org,
or check out the website at www.jccmaccabicamp.org.
In celebration of Israel's 60th Birthday, Safam will be performing at Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley on Sun., Mar. 9 at 4 pm. Fun for the whole family! Adults $10 in advance, $12 at the door. Minors accompanied by adults are free. For tickets and info contact Kristine Potter at Temple Beth Elohim (781) 235-8419. www.bethelohim-wellesley.org
Congregation Beth El of Sudbury Celebrates Purim!
On Sunday March 16 at noon, Beth El's senior youth group (WASTY) will hold its Annual Purim Carnival for children of all ages. There will be a moonbounce, games, food, music and chances to win prizes. All proceeds from this year's Purim Carnival, will be donated to Habitat for Humanity, Save Darfur, World Wildlife Fund, American Jewish World Service, Make a Wish Foundation, America's Second Harvest.
On Thursday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m., members of the congregation will present the annual Purim Shpiel. This year's production, "Late Night with Cohen O'Brian," promises to be a hilarious and entertaining spoof of the Purim story with a late night television theme.
On Friday, March 21 at 7:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to come hear the Megillah reading. It's an early start, so feel free to come in your pajamas.
Congregation Beth El of the Sudbury River Valley is a reform congregation located in Sudbury, Massachusetts; www.bethelsudbury.org. or the temple office at 978-443-9622.
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