Shalom Mishpachot/Dear Families:
Even if I didn’t have a calendar I would know approximately what day it is by the number of inquiries I’m getting about “when is Religious School starting?”.
I can tell you. I hesitate to name the date because on September 10th we are having an Open House. When I say Open House many folks think (especially if you’re returnees) you don’t need to show up. But you do, and here’s why.
We have a number of new programs this year that require explaining and signing up. Without your being here, you will not know and/or understand what it is that we’re doing and even if I tell you, you will not grasp the entire scope. So we are having school that night, just not regular classes, but you will have an opportunity to meet your child’s teacher and hear about the new Temple programs.
Open House September 10th is from 5:00-6:00.
You asked, we listened. Our four-year old parents had asked for more programming, on the same day as school, just not as long or as extensive. So if you have, or know of, a four year old in the community, please let them know we are having a weekly one-hour group, on Thursday from 4:00-5:00. For this group only membership is not required.
Some returning programs: Sunday Morning Story Hour; Saturday Morning Tot Shabbat; Youth Services–but in a different format; Class Services–but in a different format.
Newish program that didn’t quite pan out last year: Own Your Own Holiday. So we’ve revived it and can’t wait to tell you all about it on September 10th, along with Folk/Youth Service/Committee partnerships.
Religious School Chair. I think most of you know Patty Greenfield who has worn many hats here at Temple, most recently as Membership Chair. We’re thrilled to say that after six years of serving in that capacity Patty is taking over as Religious School Chair and has been busily revitalizing the education programs along with me, Jan Orlansky, our VP of Education, Deb Laskarzewski, Board Member and… maybe you? We are looking for parents to have input on the future direction of the Religious School. Talk to me or Patty to see how you can be a part of our success.
Another new date, particularly for parents of teens, is our Taste of Chai on September 24 from 6:15-7:00, where students will get a chance to meet with the Chai School teachers and see what the classes are being offered, thereby giving them an opportunity to sign up in advance of Chai School on October 8th.
I’m looking forward to seeing returning and new faces at school this year. B’Shalom,
Morah Judy
