Community First

December 4th the school wrapped up our Creative and Performing Arts program with a wonderful and warm Hanukkah show featuring students from our religious school. After 8 weeks of hard work, it was thrilling to see students singing, dancing, acting, playing cello, and participating in groups that were composed of many ages of students.

It was truly heartwarming to watch wiggly kindergarteners stand next to sprouting middle schoolers singing together. In a play written by our talented Teaching Artist Sebastian Ryder, it was the youngest students who acted as the “experts” who were most knowledgeable about Hanukkah.

In addition, families and members of our community came together to see, celebrate, and support student work. The packed audience was animated, and responsive to the show.

While on the surface the performance was evidence of the work we are doing in the school, the greater achievement was much more subtle. Students, families, and the community were happy. Children were giggly and eager to help each other, and parents openly greeted and chatted with each other before and after the performance. 

This connection with each other is all the more impressive because 25% of our school is new to Temple Sinai this year. It means that families and children are feeling welcome, and that they are finding a home community within which they can share the process of raising Jewish children.

For those who are not yet part of our community, know that it is never too late to join in the fun. We are always happy to welcome new students to our school, and I am happy to meet with any parents who have questions about what we do and how we do it. Feel free to email me at aimee.loiter@templesinaivt.org, or schedule time to talk with or meet with me here: https://calendly.com/aloiter.