At Akiva School, we have always proven ourselves as innovators in education and this year is no exception. Our new Language Lab and ongoing STEAM programming in our Innovation Lab represent initiatives unique only to Akiva. As we reach the midpoint of our school year, I would like to also reflect on some of the other innovative activities in our school, which may happen outside our classrooms, but are still an important part of our students’ (and families’) educational experience.
Our emphasis on the home and school partnership has always been one of the cornerstones of the Akiva educational philosophy. In September, Akiva School gathered as a community for a beautiful Kabbalat Shabbat and Friday night dinner as we warmly welcomed in Shabbat at the Beth Israel Beth Aaron Congregation. As we headed into the busyness of the holidays, our Jewish Life Committee and parent volunteers still found time to organize a school-wide Challah Bake program with special prayers for those in need in our community.
Now, in December, as we get ready for Chanukah and winter break, our home and school partnership continues. Our Akiva community raised over $50,000 for our school through the ORT Benefit Gala for Jewish Education. We have been treated to our annual parent-run Akiva Chanukah Concert, another program unique to Akiva. Our annual Akiva Play is also taking place, another event that makes our school so special and exemplifies the incredible commitment of our students and parents.
I would like to thank everyone who is part of our special Akiva community: our team of professionals, my fellow board members and all of our parents who are engaged in their children’s educational experience. I also want to thank our Head of School, Rabbi Grossman, who leads the way along this path of innovation and partnership.
Wishing everyone a restful winter break and a Happy Chanukah!