CESJDS Links Blog

"Ask a good question. Learn something new. Be kind to everyone." These guiding words shaped the Class of 2032’s 5th Grade Siddur Ceremony and Siyyum, held on June 11 at B’nai Israel.

In moving speeches, Rabbi Mitch Malkus and Rebecca Prigal reflected on the growth, strength, and light our students have shown throughout their Lower School journey—celebrating not just academic milestones, but the values and character that define a CESJDS graduate.

CESJDS Alumni Speaker Rabbi Rachel Ain '95 shares how her time at JDS has provided her constant ability to call on her JDS k'hillah throughout her journey after graduation.

Dean of Students Roz Landy's speech encouraging the Class of 2025 to "never underestimate the value of [their] special piece."

CESJDS 9th Grade Dean, and High School Biology and Ecology Teacher Melissa Andrew shares her remarks to the Class of 2025 at the Dr. Stuart Lessans Siyyum.

Something I have always valued and embraced as an educator is student voice and the perspective adolescents have about the world around them. It may not always be easy to hear our students’ feedback and their thoughts about how things are going, but we need to. Students’ perception is their reality. We need to acknowledge that and work with it, even if it does not align with our own perceptions of what takes place. Only then, will we begin to understand how best to address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs at school. At CESJDS, student empowerment is also an important aspect of our School’s educational philosophy.

Our goals of a phone-free school day, then and now, are to improve the lives of our students and to better support their learning in school while promoting Torah Lishmah/love of learning.

Research shows that children thrive in environments where they feel secure and know what to expect. Predictable routines can significantly reduce anxiety in children, allowing them to focus better on learning and social interactions. When children know what comes next in their day, they can allocate their mental energy to exploration and learning rather than worrying about uncertainty.

What joy was felt as we welcomed our high school students back to campus on August 27 with an Opening Day Assembly filled with energy and framed by our CESJDS core values.

Head of School Rabbi Mitch Malkus and Lower School Principal Matthew Bellas addressed the Class of 2031 at their Aba Marcus and Sara Marcus 5th Grade Siddur Ceremony and Siyyum on June 7, 2024.

Head of School Mitch Malkus and Middle School Principal Ms. Cassandra Batson addressed the Class of 2028 at their 8th Grade Siyyum on June 6, 2024.