September 20, 2024 / 17 Elul 5784

Shabbat Begins: 6:15 p.m. Shabbat Ends: 7:58 p.m.

A NEW TRADITION: SCHOOL-WIDE KABBALAT SHABBAT

On Friday, the Atrium was filled with students for the start of a new King David tradition, a special monthly school-wide Kabbalat Shabbat. Grade 12 students were excited to welcome everyone to participate in this special tradition in Jewish life, one that has been celebrated for thousands of years.

Shabbat is a time for reflection and connection and by lighting candles, reciting the blessings over the wine and challah, singing Shabbat songs, and being with friends, an atmosphere of peace and joy permeated the building. To close the Kabbalat Shabbat, everyone was invited to stand and sing Hatikvah as a symbol of our connection as the Jewish people to the land of Israel and our hope for the future.

Thank you to the Grade 12 students who organized the first Kabbalat Shabbat and led the ceremony, supported by the Grade 8 students. Appreciation is also given to the Senior Foods class for making the dough for the delicious challah buns, and to the Grade 10 students from the Chesed Club who helped prepare the challah on Wednesday.

EMPOWERING POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT IN SENIOR STUDENTS

In Grades 10 and 11, students had the opportunity to engage with political activism and learn how to navigate the political landscape effectively. Led by Jill Cordes, CJPAC Administrative and Programming Coordinator for the BC Region, and Kara Mintzberg, Director for the BC Region, the workshop provided senior students with a comprehensive overview of political participation. The session emphasized the importance of building strategic relationships in the political arena and featured debates and discussions on timely issues that resonate with students. As the provincial elections approach on October 19, King David is committed to equipping our young Jewish Canadians with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to put their activism skills into practice during our upcoming Day of Impact!

BUILDING BRIDGES

On Tuesday, we welcomed parents to the annual Meet the Teacher evening. The evening began with a meet-and-greet with the administration team, followed by a warm welcome from our administrators. Parents then had the chance to connect with their children's teachers and explore the classrooms where meaningful learning takes place every day. They gained valuable insights into the challenges and high expectations our teachers have set for the upcoming school year. It was a successful and engaging event, reinforcing the strong partnership between parents and teachers as we embark on this school year together.

PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE

On Thursday, the Grade 12 students had the opportunity to attend the Canadian Universities Event (CUE) at St. George's School. This event offered students a valuable platform to explore a diverse array of university booths and assess which institutions aligned with their academic aspirations. Beyond this, it fostered meaningful interactions with peers from other independent schools across Vancouvery.

From a personal perspective, the chance to engage with representatives from the University of Waterloo, the University of Alberta, and Dalhousie University was particularly insightful. Speaking with them about their Health Sciences programs expanded my understanding and provided essential guidance as I prepare to apply to post-secondary institutions.

~Tamir Gini, Grade 12

If parents would like to go to the Canadian Universities Event it is open to the public on

Monday, September 23, 2024 – Burnaby, Hilton Metro Vancouver – 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Click here to register for the public event.

MINYAN AND MUNCH: NOURISHING THE BODY AND SOUL

Every Thursday, King David organizes a "Minyan and Munch" to read the Torah, pray, connect, explore various Jewish prayers, schmooze, and munch on delicious breakfast treats. This Thursday morning, a couple of parents joined the students in reading the Torah and engaging in rituals. The provided breakfast serves as an appealing incentive, attracting more students who don’t want to miss out on “the most important meal of the day."