CESJDS Links Blog

As the school year came to a close, Dr. Vardi reflected on her final week at CESJDS and her five years of service as High School Principal and Upper School Campus Head. In her farewell message, she shared highlights from a meaningful final week, celebrated the growth and leadership of CESJDS students, and reflected on the importance of placing students and Jewish identity at the center of school life. Dr. Vardi also expressed her gratitude for the relationships, learning, and community that shaped her time at CESJDS as she prepares to begin a new chapter as Head of School at the Ann & Nate Levine Academy in Dallas.

Alum Orly May ’06 reflects on how a JDS education shapes who we become—reminding graduates that because they’ve known this community, they’ve already been changed for good.

Dean of Students Roz Landy’s graduation message to the Class of 2026 celebrates a class that learned to go for gold while remembering to laugh, play, and lead with heart.

In her graduation address, Board President and alumna Stacy Mensh Schlactus ’87 reflects on the roots and wings a CESJDS education provides—and the unbreakable chain that connects generations.

From gratitude to justice, Ruth and Samuel Salzberg Science Department Chair and High School Physics Teacher, Ray Hodges, offers the Class of 2026 a timeless charge: know your values, be kind, and help bend the world toward justice.

This year, we are proud to expand our collaboration with Hebrew at the Center by partnering on the Pritzat Derech: Hebrew for All initiative in our Lower School.

Head of School Mitch Malkus and Middle School Principal Ms. Cassandra Batson addressed the Class of 2029 at their 8th Grade Siyyum on June 12, 2025. 

"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."