The start of the school year and the High Holidays combined is that sweet season filled to the brim with busy schedules, family and community commitments and personal reflection. Sometimes this also brings a flood of memories. Maybe your social media “memories” feed has a pic today of your student the year they lost all their front teeth and had to find a work-around for the apples and honey treats. Perhaps it’s hearing the Yavneh community sing-a-long that hits just right. For me and my husband, every year at Yavneh it was starting the year off with “Sweet as Honey” to celebrate our connection, love of study and Torah in this warm, gentle hug that is Yavneh.
As the parent of two Yavneh grads now in college, and a long time Yavneh Board member (12 years), many things have changed, but what stays constant is Yavneh’s unique combination of tradition and innovation, connection and community – some of the many attributes that I cherish about our school. Of course, this is just one point of view. Yavneh is many things to many people and we all have a way to describe those thoughts and feelings. I’d love to hear yours.
As we reflect on all the Yavneh memories, the Walk-A-Thon is one I remember fondly with a lot of tired, sweaty kids at the end of the day filled with so much pride in their accomplishments and funny stories about what happened along the way. We’re delighted that this year’s Walk-A-Thon is a new, weekend edition! Yes, this Sunday, from 1-3pm bring your friends and family to the APJCC as we expand this awesome event to the whole community. Alumni parents, I’m also talking to you. Come on out – I know the faculty and staff really want to see photos of your Yavneh grad/college student!! Can’t make it in person but want to show your support? Check out the pledge page.
Through all that hustle and bustle of this special season, as a parent of now adult kids, my wish for you is that you find some moments for peace and compassion. Hug those kiddos while they will still let you. Make sure your Yavneh faculty and staff know how much you appreciate them. The days are long but the years are fast. My family has immense gratitude for our Yavneh years and we hope for the same blessings for you.
Rebecca Dishotsky
Yavneh Board Member
