Regular Erev Shabbat – August 28, 2020
8 Elul 5780
August 28, 2020
Dear ICJA Family:
As week one of our “new normal” draws to an end, I want to thank everyone – parents, students, faculty, and staff for their extraordinary efforts that enabled the reopening our school. Please G-d, because of everyone’s commitment to safety and health, our school will remain open and able to teach and inspire all of our students.
Please remember, there are three critical variables in creating a safe environment for our students:
1. Masks must be worn at all times in the building (except when eating lunch).
2. Social Distancing must be observed both in and out of the building.
3. Wellness checks – must be completed every day, and if there is the slightest indication of possible COVID related symptoms, please stay home!
While so many things are different this year, I’ve been thrilled to see how much has stayed the same. For example, today, Rabbi Myers’ Modern Jewish History class received their instructions for creating a “Mini-Memshala.” With this mock Israel Parliament experience, students will not only be studying current Israel, but also doing the research to understand the historical background, and preparing “government reports” for discussion. Together with our AIPAC and Stand With Us programming, this class is part of our effort to prepare our students to be strong advocates for Israel. The program is supported by the Gorenstein family, in memory of their late husband and father, Sam, z”l.
On Monday classes will resume as usual, and dismissal will be 5:28. And if you have time before Shabbat, here is my pre-Shabbat drasha on this week’s parsha.
Have a wonderful and relaxing Shabbat.Stay safe, stay connected, and please be inspired!
B’vracha,
LAM
Rabbi Leonard A. Matanky, Ph.D.
Dean, Ida Crown Jewish Academy