Whether in the hallways at Yavneh or prospective families, two common questions arise from time to time: “why Jewish day school and “why Yavneh?”
There is something unspoken about the Yavneh community that I can’t describe, what I will simplistically sum up as warmth and community. We all wear multiple hats in our community, whether it’s through employment, volunteering, parenting, sports, or other chosen commitments. My Yavneh connection is that I get to be a proud Yavneh Mom and have the honor of serving on the Yavneh board.
Most recently, I attended the Kitah Alef/Bet play directed by Margaux Millman, and when the play concluded and everyone broke for donuts, I didn’t grab the microphone in time to commend Margaux, as I can’t imagine how much work went into making this happen. The performance was basically smooth and seamless. I could tell the kids all felt supported, and much effort went into rehearsals. The kids wiggled, sang, danced, and spoke beautifully. What really resonated with me was that every kid was given a very individualized part and time to shine, and wow, did they rise to the occasion. Thanks, Margaux, for all that you do for our students and for giving us the gift of your time and talent to make us proud, joyous parents.
I’ve always been impressed with the arts at Yavneh. The music and art programs are specifically exceptional. The fact that every kid gets exposed to singing, dancing, and playing an instrument across all grade levels is unbeatable. I was blown away the first time I attended the Art Walk. As a new Yavneh family, I had no idea what I was walking into, and this, too, is well-planned and joyously enjoyed by the whole community. I often can’t believe the art these children produce while simultaneously learning the theories behind what they are doing. I often see these custom pieces framed in people’s homes and not just pinned to refrigerators (no judgment if you’ve done neither).
For me, the Keshet of Kavod week is also a stand-out program as these themes are specific to Judaism and always reflective of the space that the children are growing in. There are so many other programs specific to Yavneh that I personally feel lucky my children get to experience. So I mostly answered “why Yavneh” so far as a parent. As a board member, I get to help ensure that Yavneh has the support and infrastructure needed so these programs can sustain and meet the needs of our community.
What is also, at times, unspoken is how our kids get to excel in a safe Jewish environment with their peers, all while getting exceptional Jewish programming and Hebrew language skills. How special it is that they get to meet, learn, and interact with two Shinshinim every year from Israel? While we know the kids don’t always know these are experiences they would not get anywhere else in the same way, as parents, we can find comfort and warmth in knowing our kids are always in good hands. We all get to be present at Yavneh in ways that work well for our family. Whether it’s attending a Kabbalat Shabbat, celebrating our kids’ milestones, or volunteering, we have a community as well. What I see across the board, whether I am saying “hi” in the office, attending a board meeting, or speaking with a teacher, is one common thread of how everyone cares about our kids. Drop me a line if you want to share your “Y.”
B’Shalom,
Jennifer Orrin
Board Secretary
(1st & 3rd Grade Parent)
