This morning, fourth graders proudly shared their Tu B’Shvat learning with their families in a packed Beth Israel Judea sanctuary. In the spirit of innovation and exploration, we are piloting grade-level community gatherings—instead of grade-level tefillot—this year for second, fourth, and sixth grades. As one fourth grader explained at the beginning of the celebration, “You might be wondering why we are doing it this way. Well, we wanted you to see something you haven’t seen before.” 

 

Upon conclusion of the celebration, Director of Jewish Learning Ms. Debby Arzt-Mor shared with the students the story of Nachshon from this week’s portion. Nachshon was the first to jump into the Sea of Reeds, prompting the splitting of the seas. “You and your amazing team of teachers are the first ones who jumped in to try something different,” Ms. Arzt-Mor said. “Thank you for sharing with us the result of teamwork that truly came from your heart.”  Echoed Director of Lower School Ms. Jenny Rinn, “When you turn learning over to children, they often come up with things better than you could imagine. Thank you for sharing this with us.”