At Talmud Torah one of the remarkable experiential opportunities that we provide for our students and their families is that each year, every student participates in a unique culminating class-wide program. From our youngest Kitah Bet (2nd grade) students to our oldest Kitah Het (8th grade) students, every year’s curriculum leads to different, meaningful, interactive, and transformational experiences. This year is no exception!
Two weeks ago, our Kitah Vav (6th grade) families celebrated their students’ Yad LaTorah (Torah Pointer) program as a fitting beginning of their study of the meaning, structure, and choreography of the Shabbat Morning Torah Service. As an extension of their studies, each Vav student designed their own Torah Yad with the help of a special, interactive, online application. Most of our students chose to include their own Hebrew names within their distinct designs, while others turned to the name of their anticipated Bar/Bat Mitzvah Torah portion for their inspiration.
On Thursday evening, December 5th, Kitah Vav students and parents gathered together to assemble each student’s personalized Yad, and engaged in serious, interactive Torah study. Local Sofer (Torah scribe) Noam Sienna led a fascinating discussion relating to details and concepts of writing a Torah scroll. The Yad, which many of our students will choose to use during their Bar/Bat Mitzvah and beyond, is tangible manifestation of their study together. Through this hands-on (pun intended!) program, each student has created a personal Jewish artifact that is not only meaningful and functional, but also a beautiful work of art. Kol Hakavod to our Kitah Vav students and their families on their outstanding accomplishments!!
As you begin Winter Break, we wish you and your extended family a Chag Urim Sameach (Happy Hanukkah) and a healthy and fulfilling secular New Year!
B’shalom,
Hazzan Jeremy Lipton, Head of School