Happy Lag B'Omer!

Today Rabbi Offner told us about Lag B'Omer and suggested that we all spend some time outside today.  The beautiful weather cooperated!!!  I corrected some of my math tests from secular school and took my dog on a long walk down at Hammonasset State Park!  It was a beautiful day outside, but we had a beautiful day at TBTRS too!

Our first graders learned about Lag B'Omer in class and read about the Holiday.  They also decided to celebrate Yom Ha'Atzmaut today since they missed it over vacation!  Students made beautiful cards (with lots of glitter) to celebrate Israel's 65th birthday.  They also spent some time practicing their Hebrew letters enjoying a fun time in Music!

The second grade started to reflect on their amazingly busy year!  They started on the first few pages (months) of their "Second Grade Year" books!  Their day included a trip to the library where they heard the story, "It's too Noisy!" by Joanna Cole and a visit with Mr. Calvert for music!

Third and fourth graders were busy preparing for their presentation during Tefillah by practicing reading the Modeh/Modah Ani!  They also began working on the V'ahavtah!!!  Students heard about the 10 Commandments and have homework to read the 10 Commandments and draw and write their own 10 Commandments for homework.

Fifth graders finished up their study on Jewish Marriages.  Students practiced reading the Mi Chamocha and the full Kiddush for their Hebrew lesson.  Homework is to practice reading the full Kiddush for Wednesday.

Sixth grade was preparing for their presentation next Sunday, May 5th at Tefillah.  The students discussed the meaning behind the prayer, Mi Chamocha, and the origin of the prayer in class.  They also engaged in a discussion based on their homework from Wednesday, in which they were supposed to ask their parents what it means to them to be American Jews.

Seventh graders were in New York City for a field trip and I heard that they had a wonderful time!  I will fill you in once I hear more from them!  In the meantime, take a look at this picture of our students in the city!

Eighth graders had a meaningful discussion about Social Activism after watching the short documentary, "No Grapes."  I was lucky enough to participate with the class for a little while and was excited about the discussion and maturity of the students!

The confirmation class joined the Annual Meeting and were able to learn a bit about how our synagogue works!  The Annual Meeting was quite inspiring for me as I was able to stop in for a bit and saw Al Goldberg receive the K'vod award for his many years of service to TBT!  Did you know that he was a founding member?  I was most struck by his comment, "I have received more from Temple Beth Tikvah than I have given."  Having worked with him over the years, I know that Mr. Goldberg has dedicated so much of his time, intelligence and love to our synagogue.  I completely agree with his comment that we get back as much or more than we give!  I also saw TBTRS alumni Billy Chupp receive the $10,000 Friesner-Stutzman Scholarship award, given to a high school senior who has demonstrated high academic achievement, good character and a dedication to learning.  I heard a bit of the letter from Dylan Buller, last year's recipient as well!  In a few short years, our current TBTRS students will be eligible for this generous and amazing scholarship!

Best wishes to all!  See you Wednesday!

-Miss Nancy Kahrimanis