Empowering Parents - Digital Safety Insights

Earlier this week, we welcomed Rahel Bayar, a former sex crimes and child abuse prosecutor and digital safety expert, for an informative session on digital safety. Rahel presented on a variety of vulnerabilities that our children face online today, walking parents through the motives and dangers associated with various apps. She equipped parents with essential tools to protect our children in the digital world. In addition to the parent session, Rahel worked with our 4th and 5th graders, as well as Middle School and High School students, addressing digital safety in an age-appropriate manner. A detailed email, including handouts from the session, will be sent out next week to all parents. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this important discussion!

Hands-On Learning

This week, Morah Aviva's EC4A class focused on Parshat Noach and the letter of the week, “Hh.” The students engaged in a cooperative teyvah (ark) mural activity that encouraged problem-solving and creativity. They also created individual teyvah collages, practicing their Hebrew writing skills by labeling their work “Teyvat Noach” (Noach's Ark). In addition to these activities, students enjoyed water play at the sensory table, searched for pairs among the manipulative toys in the Math Center, and used mosaic tile shapes to replicate patterns in the Science Center. Alphabet activities included a letter “Hh” word wall, Show and Tell, and an instructional group lesson on tracing and directional concepts to aid in developing beginning writing skills.

Insights and Inspiration

This past Thursday, two of Mr. Cell's high school social studies classes welcomed visiting lecturers. RMBA parent and board chair Dr. Rhoda Seplowitz spoke to our 11th-12th grade AP Psychology class about her work as a psychiatrist, answering various questions from the students. Additionally, Gavi Roisman, a practicing lawyer and former leader of RMBA's Model U.N. team, engaged in an interactive seminar with our 9th-12th grade MUN team.

Mastering Inequalities

Eighth grade students in Ms. Rosenzweig's math class worked diligently this week preparing for their Chapter 8 test on multi-step inequalities and equations. They engaged in various review activities and problem-solving exercises, to reinforce their understanding of the concepts. 

Sweet Science

This week in Mr. Matt's 5th grade STEAM class, students focused on "Matter"—what it is, what it becomes, and how it changes from one state (form) to another. They began a hands-on activity where they followed instructions to create their own rock candy using simple syrup, string, a weighted base, and a cup. The students really enjoyed this "sweet" project as they learned how to connect the scientific process to their everyday lives.

Peer-Led Learning

This week, a Post-Shacharit Halacha (Jewish law) class for high school students was launched, run by their peers. Despite being optional, nearly 20 high schoolers are choosing to start their day with five minutes of learning practical Halachot (laws) related to the laws of Shabbat!

Parsha Activities

This week, Morah Sandy's EC3A class focused on Parsha Noach. They collected pictures and toy animals from around the room to demonstrate how Noach gathered animals for the ark. The students then learned about the rainbow as a sign from Hashem that He would never cause such a devastating flood again. They created their own rainbows during a teacher-directed lesson, finishing them off with fluffy clouds.

Finding Factors



This week, students in Ms. Rosenzweig's 6th grade math class worked hard to learn about the Greatest Common Factor (GCF). Through engaging activities and collaborative problem-solving, they explored how to find the GCF of various sets of numbers. The students practiced applying this important concept to simplify fractions and solve real-world problems, enhancing their overall understanding of mathematical relationships.

Essay Writing Fun

This week, Mr. Simon's third-grade class was busy writing essays using their newest spelling words! Each week, the class practices for the spelling test on Friday, and one effective method they use is to write sentences incorporating the spelling list. This week, their words lent themselves well to essay writing, making the activity both fun and engaging!

Sand and Stars

This week, Morah Tsippi's EC2B class engaged in hands-on play with sand and various vehicles to help them understand Avraham's journey through the desert by foot and by camel. In connection with Parshat Lech Lecha, they discussed how Hashem told Avram to go and blessed him with the promise that his descendants would be as numerous as the sand on the ground and the stars in the sky. As they explored these concepts, the students embraced their identity as those Kochavim (stars).

Navigating Digital Safety

Today, our Lower School students had the valuable opportunity to hear from Jenna Fondren, the Statewide Director of The Safe School Institute, an initiative under Crime Stoppers of Houston. Jenna led discussions on Cyber Safety, focusing on key topics such as Trusted Adults, Personal Information, Online Strangers, and Cyberbullying for Kindergarten through 2nd grade. For 3rd through 5th graders, she expanded on these concepts and introduced more advanced topics, including how to respond to inappropriate content and laws affecting individuals aged 10 and up. This educational experience equipped our students with essential tools for navigating the digital world safely.

Color Search Fun

In Mr. Matt's Early Childhood STEAM classes this week, students engaged in an exciting "Tzevah Search" (Color Search), focusing on the colors of the Fall rainbow. Our youngest learners also took time to appreciate the miracles that Hashem provides by touring the garden and forest, pointing out special examples of the wonders that Hashem has given and continues to give to each of us every day.

Student Leadership

Our Lower School Student Council elections took place this week, and over the past two weeks, our 4th and 5th grade candidates worked diligently to campaign. They crafted creative posters, delivered speeches to students in grades 1-5, and shared their platforms—hot topics included extra recess and less homework! It has been wonderful to see our students engage in the election process, fostering excitement for voting and leadership. Kol Hakavod to all the candidates and congratulations to the newly formed Student Council!

Rosh Chodesh Celebration

Last Friday, our dedicated Bnot Sherut, Yael and Adi, organized a delightful Rosh Chodesh celebration for the students. As part of the celebration, students learned about the significance of Rosh Chodesh, marking the new month, and the special prayer for rain, "V'ten Tal U'Matar," which begins on the 7th of Cheshvan in Israel. This bracha is recited during the Amidah to ask for dew and rain, reflecting our connection to the land of Israel.

Personalized Learning

Ms. Morrison's 4th Grade class is enjoying their personalized learning experience with Freckle. By integrating each student's Renaissance assessment scores, Freckle provides tailored instruction that meets individual needs, enhancing engagement and fostering academic growth. 

Community Connections

Stay connected with the RMBA community by following our Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) on social media. Stay informed about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support and engage with our school. Click the links below to follow RMBA’s PTO:

• Instagram
• Facebook

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the PTO for organizing the delightful Sunshine Cart that visited classrooms and offices, offering treats to our dedicated faculty and staff on Rosh Chodesh. Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated!