By Barbara and Ed Shapiro, Rashi parents
We had not considered an independent school for our children. We had attended public schools and our children went to the local public school. But when several close friends repeatedly recommended Rashi, saying it would be a perfect fit for our children, and when our town’s budget cuts had started to impact public education, we decided to take a look.
From the moment we walked in the door, we sensed an energy and passion for learning, Judaism, and social justice – from teachers and students alike – that was amazing. And from the minute our children entered their classrooms, we saw that that energy was infectious.
Rashi was the only school we looked at. The values based education had enormous appeal. We transferred our children to Rashi and all members of the family couldn’t be happier with the decision.
Our kids love coming to school. They love learning, their teachers and their classmates. They enjoyed school before, but there is something special about how and what they are learning at Rashi. The teachers really know each child; they nurture their individual strengths and interests and they find ways to build on areas where they may need additional support.
We’ve always instilled in our children the importance of making a difference and giving back to the community – and Rashi’s values reinforce and strengthen this family value. For several years our children had asked for charitable gifts instead of birthday gifts. This year our son he asked people to give to Little Red Wagon, one of the Tamchui organizations from last year that had inspired him.
We also appreciate the opportunity to get involved as parents. Whether it be through Yachad, admissions, development, social justice, or attending Kabbalat Shabbat, we can be as much a part of the Rashi community as our children – and we cherish that.
Since tuition doesn’t cover the full cost of a Rashi education, contributions to the Annual Campaign help bridge the gap. Giving allows Rashi to keep tuition reasonable and to provide financial assistance to keep the school accessible to a diverse student body. We have also made a gift to the school’s capital campaign, in order to help the campaign reach its final goal.
We were not at Rashi for the launch of the capital campaign that funded the new school building, but we and our children benefit from it every day. By giving to Rashi, we’re contributing to the gift that Rashi gives our children.