September 12, 2008

R.A.S.G. HEBREW ACADEMY
SABBATH LIGHTS
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September 12, 2008
Shabbat Begins: 7:10 p.m.
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12 Elul, 5768
Shabbat Ends: 8:10 p.m.
Message from the Head of School
School Reminder
“Honey, did you have a good day today?” “Were you nice to your friends?”
“Did you behave?”
14-ACT @ Hillel
23-Back to School Night
Early Childhood 7:00 p.m.
26-Middle School/High School
Chesed Fair
29-No School
Erev Rosh Hashanah
30-No School
Rosh Hashanah
Earlier this week, as I headed to the High School to teach my Psychology
course, I heard the mother of an Early Childhood youngster ask her those three
questions. I smiled. What a beautiful moment. And, what an example of
concern for the feelings of others; both for her daughter and for her daughter’s
classmates and teachers.
Then I wondered, What if we as adults had to answer the same questions when
we came home from work, or after our day-to-day interactions? “Abba, were
you nice to your co-workers?” “Mommy, did you behave today?”
If we guided ourselves in a way that the answers would always be yes, imagine what a pleasure it would be to navigate our way through the maze of life.
Sometimes our days are hectic and stressful, at time we become frenetic or distracted. We may not realize how a glance, a comment or neglecting to say hello
may affect a colleague, employee or friend.
As we head to Rosh Hashana, we must take stock in how we act toward one another. We should be able to look at our children at the end of each day and say,
“I had a good day, I was nice to people, and I behaved.”
And be telling the truth.
Shabbat Shalom!
May we be inscribed
in the book of life
for a year of
peace, health
and
happiness
Dr. Roni Raab
Head of School
Hebrew Academy flags were flown at
half-mast in remembrance of 9/11
Edited by Norma Reiz
2400 Pine Tree Drive * Miami Beach, FL 33140 * (305)532-6421
www.rasg.org
RASG Hebrew Academy
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September 12, 2008 - 12 Elul, 5768
Dear Parents,
Greetings and blessing!
It is with great anticipation and excitement that I take on my new responsibilities as the Principal of the RASGHA Middle
School. Before anything else, I thank the Board, all of the Faculty at the school, parents and pupils who have made my
transition from the UK to the US so easy and welcoming. The coming year will – b’ezrat Hashem – certainly provide
everyone who is a part of the school with the opportunities and the tools to grow in knowledge, understanding and middot
tovot.
The school’s motto is Torah im Derech Eretz (Torah-study combined with worldliness). The phrase derech eretz has
two definitions: firstly, it means mentchlichkeit; secondly, it means worldliness. In fact, our whole raison d’etre focuses
on combining all three elements (Torah, mentchlichkeit, and worldliness) to equip our pupils – your children – with these
fundamental life-tools.
Our pedagogical approach uses Torah-study as the most basic ingredient for success in the other two areas. Pupils
at the Hebrew Academy are not only taught Torah in the traditional sense, but are guided in implementing and practicing what they have learned. Ahavat Yisrael is a cornerstone of our religious tenets. By nurturing this, life and lessons
– through the students’ eyes – take on a whole new meaning. Their sense of respect extends to their teachers, peers,
approach to study, and the wider community, thus creating mentschen.
The academic regimen in the Middle School is certainly rigorous, and the General Studies and Judaic Studies teams
have set high standards. We are confident that every student under our care will be stretched to his/her potential. The
Hebrew Academy has recently added new team-members to the General Studies faculty in the Middle School. Dr.
Eugenia Stefanescu joins both the Math team and the Science team where she will support the ever-challenging, diverse
curricula in these subject areas. The Social Studies Department has taken on development of a new Student Government – apropos to the upcoming Presidential election, and the Language Arts Department will bolster pupils’ critical thinking and critical writing skills through in-depth analysis of the novels they read. Besides the set curricular work, the aim
of the Middle School is to add to the development of well-rounded, worldly-wise children. To this end, the school offers a
number of “specials” to help including Art, Computers and Music. Additionally, we have also brought Ms. Jill Berman onto
the team to support our diverse learners.
Throughout the course of this year, a variety of extra-curricular events, projects, and experiences will be offered. Some
of these will involve community-based/chesed-based services whereby students will get community service credit for
school. Other programs may have some additional costs that were not foreseeable when school started. If extra fees are
required, you will be given enough time to make arrangements before the actual event.
In conclusion, I wish all of you and your families a K’tiva va’chatima tova, l’shana tova u’metuka!
May the A-mighty bless you with a sweet and healthy New Year, both materially and spiritually!
Rabbi A. Balkany
Principal, Middle School
RASG Hebrew Academy
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From the desk of the
Rav Bet Sefer/Principal of Judaic Studies
Rabbi Mordechai Shifman
The Torah teaches that the death penalty is imposed upon a boy
entering his fourteenth year if he exhibits certain specific behaviors. This
boy is termed a “ben sorer u’moreh”. The Talmud explains that, although
the child has not violated any capital crimes, stealing from his parents
to support his gluttonous appetite indicates that eventually he will resort
to bloodshed in order to cater to his needs. This concept is described by
the Talmud as “neherag al shaim sofo; yamus zakai v’al yamus chayav”
- “he is executed based upon his future actions; let him die innocent
rather than guilty.”
The Mizrachi raises the following question: In Parshas Vayeira, the Torah describes how Avraham expelled Hagar and Yishmael from
his house. With their water supply depleted, Yishmael fell deathly ill.
The Midrash records how the ministering angels pleaded with Hashem
not to perform a miracle which would save Yishmael, for he would, in
the future, be responsible for executing and persecuting Jews. Hashem
replied to the angels that a person is judged “ba’asher hu sham” - “according to his present state”. Why was Yishmael not subject to the rule
of “execution based upon his future actions”? To further compound this
difficulty, it must be noted that at the time when Yishmael’s life was in
the balance, he had already performed idol worship, attempted murder,
and was involved in immoral behavior.
Chazal state that due to all of the requirements necessary
for a child to become a “ben sorer u’moreh”, such a case never did and
never will occur. What then, is the Torah’s purpose for recording such
an impossibility?
Reflecting upon some of the prerequisites for establishing a
child as a “ben sorer u’moreh” allows us to gain insights leading to the
answers of the aforementioned questions. Chazal derive exegetically
that a ben sorer u’moreh’s parents must have similar voices, their vision
must be intact, they must possess all of their limbs, and the city wherein
the perpetrator is located must have a “bais din”, a Jewish court. The
Torah is teaching us that a child’s behavior does not necessarily reflect
who he is in essence. Although it should never be used as an excuse to
exonerate malevolent behavior, a person’s environment can influence
him and create the proclivity to act in a certain manner. If a person’s
behavior is affected by his environment, there is always hope for him
to change, for his essence may still not be corrupted. However, if a
person’s behavior is reflective of his true essence, his environment
playing no part in his actions, there is very little hope of him changing
his ways.
In order to establish that a child is a ben sorer u’moreh, the
Torah requires that his actions not be reflective of his environment in
any way. Therefore, his parents must have similar voices, i.e. he cannot
be receiving mixed messages from them. They must agree with one
another completely as to what they expect of their child. The parents
must be perceived by the child as a legitimate authority, commanding
the proper respect becoming of them. Therefore, the parents must have
September 12, 2008 - 12 Elul, 5768
their limbs intact, be able to see and hear, for a lack in any of these
areas may impede their ability to project themselves as authority figures.
The city must possess a bais din, a Jewish court which promotes the
values necessary to create a climate within the city that makes raising
decent children possible.
Chazal are teaching us that it is impossible to find an environment which is utopian, having no negative impact upon a child. Therefore, the creation of a ben sorer u’moreh, who, despite being raised in
a perfect environment, still exhibits malevolent behavior, reflecting a
corrupt core, is impossible. The Torah is setting the perfect standard, for
which a society should strive, in order to facilitate successful child-rearing.
Although Yishmael exhibited malevolent behavior, this was not
reflective of his true essence, for he was raised in a household where
he was influenced by his mother, Hagar, an Egyptian princess. There
was discord in the house due to the constant fighting between Sarah
and Hagar. This allowed for him to be judged based upon the present,
and not upon his future actions. This explains why Yishmael is never
referred to by name throughout the time period under discussion. He is
called “the son of the maidservant”, “the lad”, and “the boy”, but never
by name, for a name reflects the essence of a person, and his behavior
did not reflect his true essence.
World renowned speaker Rabbi Amnon Yitzchak
surprised the RASG Hebrew Academy on September 9, 2008, with
an impromptu visit, motivational speech and a question and answer
session with the students. Students in grades 6-12 were wowed by the
inspirational discussion presented in Hebrew and translated by Rav Bet
Sefer Rabbi Mordechai Shifman. The message Rabbi Yitzchak shared
was if a person puts his focus on the study of Torah and doing good
deeds he will accumulate treasures for himself in the world to come
and will enjoy this world; on the other hand, if their focus is to acquire
treasures in this world he will not be successful in that endeavor here
or in the world to come. In reflecting upon the presentation Rabbi Shifman stated, “Rabbi Yitzchak is one of the most inspiriting motivational
speakers in the orthodox world and it was a great honor and privilege
to have him in our midst.” Additionally, Head of School, Dr. Roni Raab
shared, “It was indeed an honor to have a guest of Rabbi Yitzchak’s
caliber on our campus, and just being in his presence gave our students
a tremendous boost during this month of Elul.”
Rabbi Amnon Yitzchak (seated) speaks to students at the RASG Hebrew
Academy as Rabbi Mordechai Shifman (standing) translates.
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RASG Hebrew Academy
September 12, 2008 - 12 Elul, 5768
HIGH SCHOOL HAPPENINGS
What a memorable start for a school year! We learned a powerful lesson from a hurricane that modified our orientation plans without even
touching ground in our vicinity. Just the thought of a storm caused us to reflect and change. Perhaps, this idea encapsulates the message of Elul.
Prepare, reflect and change whatever necessary to be ready for the blow of the shofar. Unlike the last tropical storm, “The Day of Judgment” will
definitely touch ground in our vicinity.
Despite the unavoidable last minute changes, students received the best of both worlds. They had meetings, received schedules and mingled
with new and returning teachers and students. Rabbi Lefkowitz and Mrs. Gendelman prepared a delicious pizza party with salsa and chips to reinforce the idea that small things make a big difference. Mrs. Gendelman explained to our students that even though readjusting to a new schedule
may pose challenges like the bothersome sound of the early alarm clock, smiling faces of friends, interesting lessons, and spirited activities direct
our attention to the positive aspects of BACK TO SCHOOL. Seemingly small ingredients remain critical to maintaining a positive attitude. Rabbi
Lefkowitz illustrated this point further with a personal anecdote. When a store responded to his issue respectfully and kindly, it earned them a loyal
customer for years. At times what appears to be a small favor for one creates a huge ripple of gratitude in another.
Students shared significant highlights of their summer and Rabbi Wechsler challenged us with an insight concerning the Olympics. A fraction of
a second separated gold medal winners from silver medal winners. Additionally, a very small person (a new baby boy) adds a large dose of joy to
the Wechsler family.
Student Council President, Jenna Galbut presented opportunities for committee involvement and summarized her goals and objectives. Students
responded enthusiastically. Once again, a small signature leads to large achievements. As a result, daily lunch times have become forums for
planning and executing committee initiatives.
We held our first Oneg last Friday and felt privileged to witness the famous Hebrew Academy ruach. A professional D.J. added a special touch
to our music followed by a this year’s premiere performance of Rabbi Benhamou’s phenomenal band. The energy in the air was electrifying! Additionally, we coordinated a shabbaton for ninth grade girls this past Shabbat in Miami Beach. It was a pleasure spending time with our families and
students as we enjoyed thought provoking Divrei Torah, delicious meals, singing, and a variety of activities.
Students, please note that we love visitors in our office and we welcome YOUR ideas, initiatives and suggestions to enhance our school
environment. You have already added your unique decorations to our office walls which bring smiles to our faces as we enter each day.
All the best,
Mrs. Gendelman and Rabbi Lefkowitz
Rabbi Shapiro addresses 11th & 12th grade
Chumash students
High School students dance at
the first Friday Oneg
Jenna Galbut speaks on
opportunities and involvement
Hebrew Academy 2008 Alumnus is Semi-Finalist in
The Ayn Rand Essay Competition
Yaniv Nahon, one of last year’s RASG graduates, was recognized as a semi-finalist in the Ayn Rand Institute’s annual
essay competition. His essay on The Fountainhead surpassed thousands of other entrants from high schools
across the country in this prestigious and difficult contest. Yaniv worked on his essay as part of his AP Literature
and Composition course last year. His essay, as well as the top winners’ essays, are available for viewing at the
Ayn Rand Institute’s website (www.aynrand.org). Congratulations to Yaniv and good luck to the students entering
the 2009 competition.
RASG Hebrew Academy
“SECURITY CORNER”
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We ask that parents and drivers not use
cell phones during drop off and pick up.
The safety and security of your children and
our staff is of paramount importance to us.
September 12, 2008 - 12 Elul, 5768
7th Grade Science
WE ARE OFF TO A GREAT START!
UPCOMING BAR/BAT MITZVAH DATES
Gabriel Pludwinski
September 27, 2008
Shoshana Ciment
November 22 & 23, 2008
Jared Meyerson
October 4, 2008
Chaya Bauer
December 14, 2008
Gavriel Cash
October 25, 2008
Suzanne Nemni
December 27, 2008
Second Grade “Learns Up a Storm”
By Ashleigh Muhlrad
As part of our unit on weather, second grade traveled to the
Young At Art Museum in Davie, to join Ms. Frizzle and her crazy
Magic School Bus friends. Our class was separated in half and
rotated between two amazing activities.
First, the students got to explore weather with the interactive
Magic School Bus Kicks Up A Storm exhibit. Students were
able to shoot air into the sky and hit the clouds. The clouds
moved from the air when they shot it on target. They role played
meteorologists, standing in front of a camera giving a weather
report. They experienced the intensity of hurricanes, the feeling
of snow storms and the strength of high winds. Students were
able to interactively fly kites under strong wind conditions.
Next, students went to the art center to make a project on
hurricanes. They finger-painted the background, swirling circles
together to show the strong winds. Then, they took cotton balls
to make the eye of the storm and the outer wind bands. Finally,
they added debris from the hurricane into their pictures, using
feathers, glitter pieces and little leaves. We can’t wait for this
week’s science experiment: Pushing on Air.
The seventh grade began the year with an introduction to LIFE
as the six basic processes of MRS REN...motion, respiration,
sensation, reproduction, excretion and nutrition. Now they will
begin investigative lab with the pillbug, a non threatening crustacean giving students the opportunity to handle a live specimen
without the fear of being bitten, stung or having it fly away. The
unit has a great deal of flexibility allowing each child to work relatively independently and at the same time to question, compare,
and contrast answers with their peers. The end product will be a
portfolio reflective of data collected from experimenting, researching MRS REN for this isopod and a reflective essay on lab
techniques learned, responsibilities gained and overall expectations of science.
Mazel Tov to the the Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team as
they defeated WYHS in three straight matches. In addition
the girls posted 2 impressive district victories having them
start off the season 3-0 ! Don’t miss the next home game
Monday, September 15th at 6:00 p.m.
RASG Hebrew Academy
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September 12, 2008 - 12 Elul, 5768
From the desk of
Rabbi Levi Cash
Elementary Principal
Education is not limited to just traditional paper and pencil activities alone. The goal and trend is to develop a student
who can take information; think about it and apply it. As part of the child’s development the school must provide opportunities to students whereby they can acquire for themselves the tools to deal with and process life’s challenges. It has
been documented that many young people lose their first job or their marriages end, not because they lack knowledge,
but because they lack the skills needed to deal with other people.
Our goal is to create a school where students learn about cooperation in our competitive society. The vision is about
a school where children will never feel humiliation when they fail but instead will feel empowered by the opportunity to
learn from their mistakes.
Our success will be seen when parents, administrators, teachers and students help one another to create an environment that inspires love of learning because fear and feelings of inadequacy and discouragement are no longer part of
the environment. We see our role in the shaping of a child through the eyes of our sages who say “one who teaches a
child it is counted as if he/she gave birth to the child.”
Each member of the RASG Hebrew Academy community is expected to act in ways that show consideration for others
and demonstrate an atmosphere of trust. We are all striving toward individual actions that come from consideration and
integrity from within. An atmosphere of learning must include elements of comfort and encouragement for everyone. It
is in this light that we must help students learn to make responsible choices. We must allow them to see that their decisions have an affect on the greater community.
On Thursday September 11, 2008 grades 1-3 went to the Fire Station to show our Hakarat Hatov – appreciation for all
the Fire People do for us and the community. Grades 4-5 saw a video about a man saved twice once at Sbarro restaurant in Jerusalem and then on 9/11 because another person made a responsible choice. They then had a presentation
from Carolina Gazit, our 4th grade English Teacher, who was an officer in the US army. Talk with your wonderful children about these special opportunities to extend learning outside the classroom.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Levi Cash M.S. M.ED
RASG Hebrew Academy
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September 12, 2008 - 12 Elul, 5768
RASG Hebrew Academy
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September 12, 2008 - 12 Elul, 5768