Welcome Letter from Yonni Wattenmaker, RJE

Director of Lifelong Learning

Elul 5768/September 2008

Dear Parents,

The faculty and staff of the Religious School join me in welcoming you to the 2007-2008 school year! The year ahead is one of promise, excitement and innovation as we strive to provide an enjoyable and safe learning space for each of our students and their families.

One significant aspect that separates our school from the rest is the dedication and commitment to education as demonstrated by our full time teacher program. This year, we have nine full time teachers, in addition to a part-time family educator and K-2 teaching staff, who spend the bulk of their time designing educational programs that are relevant, informative and innovative, and which strive to meet the needs of each individual student. In the classroom, students will benefit from moderate class sizes, lessons that integrate Hebrew language and prayer, and clearly defined learning objectives. Weekly email communication with the parents will include summaries of the week’s lessons alongside extension activities which bring the learning home, and an update on future events of interest both at Central Synagogue and in the larger Jewish community. Outside of school hours, families will have the opportunity to participate in social action projects, field trips, and special Shabbat and holiday programs designed and implemented by these teachers, Sara Blumstein, our Director of Educational Administration, and me.

As this is my first year as the Director of Lifelong Learning at Central Synagogue, I want you to know how eager I am to share my passion for Judaism and Jewish education with each of you. My approach to Jewish education is to help both children and adults infuse Judaism into their daily lives. This vision can be realized with the efforts of a strong and dedicated faculty who employ a variety of creative teaching styles in their classrooms, as well as a commitment on the families’ part to engagement and connection, both in education and with one another. Please free to contact me, or any of the Religious School faculty and staff, with any questions or concerns. We sincerely look forward to learning with you and your children this year.

L’Shalom,

Yonni Wattenmaker, RJE, Director of Lifelong Learning