September 19, 2024

Our New Mission Statement

Dear Kehillah,


On Sunday, September 15, we announced important changes to better align our messaging with the essence of who we are, what we do, and why we do it. Both our mission and name have been revised to more accurately reflect Kehillah as a unique school—distinctly Jewish and purposefully pluralistic.


Change, though exciting, can also be daunting. It opens doors to growth and new opportunities, while stirring fears of what might be lost. It's natural to feel uncertain, especially in challenging times. Rabbi Nachman of Breslov reminds us that "beginnings require that you unlock new doors," urging us to acknowledge the difficulties of change while embracing its potential. Maya Angelou also captures this sentiment: "We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty." By embracing change, we allow ourselves to evolve, uncovering new strengths to build a brighter, more fulfilling tomorrow.


The key to unlocking these new doors and welcoming new families to Kehillah lies in believing. Believing that we will always be Kehillah. Believing that every step we take is to create the best high school experience for our students. Believing that we can and will honor our past as we confidently move toward our bright future. 


Whether you are feeling excited, worried, or somewhere in between, rest assured, we will continue to care for one another with respect and traverse this time together. 


For those who missed the webinar or would like to see the research presented to the Board, follow the links below. You can also submit questions for our upcoming FAQ via the QR code in the Webinar Video or the "Submit Questions" button below. Please note this form will close on Sunday, September 22 at midnight.

Announcement
Webinar Video
Research Report
Submit Questions

Sincerely,



Dr. Daisy Pellant

Head of School

Kol Hakavod

Every Friday during KabShab (an abbreviated form of Kabbalat Shabbat, Hebrew meaning for “Welcoming the Sabbath”), students come together to exchange Kol Hakavod (Hebrew for “all the honor” or “well done”). They share words of appreciation and recognition for their peers, faculty, and the greater community. This practice, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, fosters a sense of gratitude and encouragement among the students with their community.


Here are some Kol Hakavods from our students:

  • Kol Hakavod to Moshe for thoroughly deserving the last name of Goodman.
  • Kol Hakavod to the microwave for allowing me to eat.
  • Kol Hakavod to the Girls Volleyball Team for an awesome season so far!

Ram's Eye View

Photo credit (photos clockwise from top left): Dr. Daisy Pellant, Dr. Roy Danovitch, and Karla Chouhan.

This week in Ram's Eye View, the quarter is flying by! From students getting active during their HeartWork Shpilkes session (Yiddish for “having extra energy”), to faculty collaborating in Professional Learning Communities, to celebrating the Mid-Autumn Lunar Festival with fresh mooncakes made by our students, it's been an exciting week!


Are you ready to charge ahead? Ram into the rest of the announcements below and stay in the know!

Updates & Announcements

Write Postcards with Reclaim Our Vote (ROV) Kehillah Action Group


Join members in our Kehillah in supporting a nonpartisan effort to combat voter suppression through a postcard-writing campaign organized by Reclaim Our Vote (ROV)


For more information on this initiative and resources regarding voter suppression, please see "ROV Kehillah Action Group Information". Sign up by Sunday, September 29 to participate. Let’s ensure every eligible voter can exercise their right this fall!

Sign Up

Important Events and Dates

Learning Mindsets 10 to 25 - The Science of Motivating Young People (Common Ground Speakers Series)

Thursday, September 19 from 7:00 to 8:15 PM

The Harker School, San Jose

Learn more & register

Fall Play Family Information Session

Monday, September 23 from 6:00 to 6:30 PM



Participating students and families, please check your inbox for the virtual meeting details.

Evening of Gratitude & Growth - Framing the Future!

Saturday, September 28 from 7:30 to 10:30 PM

Kikar

Remembrance Day (KPA Volunteer Event)

Monday, October 7 from 8:30 to 9:30 AM

Kikar Coffee

Friday, October 11 from 8:30 to 10:00 AM

Kikar (If weather does not permit, please meet in the Multi-Purpose Room)


Topic: Being a Rambassador Parent with Special Guest Dr. Dave Weiner

Before You Go...

Registration Deadline for 2024-25 Educational Travel

Attention students and families! The registration deadline is TOMORROW, Friday, September 20. 


If you have any questions regarding Educational Travel, please contact Rabbi Dennis Eisner.

Vehicle Sticker Reminder

If you haven’t registered your family vehicles for the Kehillah parking clings, please register below. Check-in with your family to ensure someone hasn’t already registered. If you have already registered, your student can pick them up from Elaine, at the front desk the Monday after you register.

Register

“Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Judaism” with Rabbi Dennis Eisner


Whether you're new to Jewish traditions or looking to deepen your knowledge, join "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Judaism" with Rabbi Dennis Eisner.


Please note that the first session has been moved to Tuesday, October 29. For more information, please see the flyer. Don't miss this chance to learn and connect!


If you’re interested in attending one of the sessions, please click Register below.

Register 

Key Dates

Who to Contact

School Calendar

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