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March 21, 2025 / 21 Adar 5785
Shabbat Begins: 7:10 p.m. Shabbat Ends: 8:17 p.m.
Parashat Vayakhel
| | FROM KING DAVID TO KINGSTON | |
 | | There are moments in life when you take a step back and realize just how much your environment has shaped you. Moving to Kingston to attend Queen's University, I often reflect on King David High School not just as an institution, but as the place that gave me the tools, confidence, and drive to pursue my passions. An unexpected yet invaluable way King David prepared me for life beyond high school was through school plays. At the time, I saw them as just another extracurricular activity, a fun, creative outlet. But looking back, I realize they taught me how a production comes together from the ground up—from logistics and stage design to collaboration and leadership. When I had the opportunity to co-lead the stage design for TEDxQueensU, those same skills came rushing back. Because of my experiences in King David productions, I understood the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making an event successful. I stepped into that role with confidence, knowing how to manage creative direction, problem-solve, and work with a team under pressure.
While my experiences in the arts helped shape my creativity and problem-solving, KDHS also fostered another passion in me...advocacy. It was through King David that I first got involved with StandWithUs, an experience that completely transformed my perspective. StandWithUs introduced me to a network of passionate Jewish students and leaders who helped me deepen my understanding of Jewish identity, history, and advocacy. I learned not just about standing up for my values, but also how to think critically, engage in meaningful discussions, and build lasting connections. Through StandWithUs, I learned not only about advocacy but also about the power of Jewish community. When I arrived at Queen’s, it was only natural for me to seek out that same sense of belonging in Hillel. This foundation naturally led me to Hillel Queens, where I became part of a strong, supportive community. As Assistant Vice President of External Relations, I had the opportunity to continue learning, engage in advocacy, and build meaningful relationships.
The confidence, leadership, and critical-thinking skills I developed at King David became essential as I took on this role, where I now work to foster dialogue, create meaningful connections, and contribute to a community that extends far beyond the classroom. Looking back, I can say with conviction that King David gave me more than an education. It gave me the courage to step into new spaces, the passion to pursue meaningful work, and the resilience to embrace every challenge that comes my way. And for that, I will always be grateful for the experiences, lessons, and community that King David gave me.
~ Uriel Presman Chikier, Class of 2024
| | During their lunch break, our students embraced the mitzvah of chesed by packing food for the food bank, ensuring those in need receive support. Their kindness and dedication to giving back reflect the true spirit of gemilut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness). Proud of our Grade 10 students, Maya K, Sasha M, Noa B, and Debora F, for their generosity and commitment! | | The PHE 8 Girls class had an exciting and enjoyable time ice skating at Sunset Arena, where they bonded as a group and embraced the challenge of the rink with enthusiasm. Their positive energy and teamwork made the experience even more special, as they encouraged one another and celebrated each other's progress. Throughout the outing, the students demonstrated outstanding behavior, sportsmanship, and school spirit, proudly representing King David with PRIDE. | | |
This year's headliner is Six13, a groundbreaking, six-man a cappella vocal band that brings an unprecedented style and energy to Jewish music, with nothing but the power of the human voice.
Learn, and hear, more about them on their website.
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This week, we celebrate Oscar Henderson, Grade 8, as our Star Student! Known as The Keeper of the Kippahs, Oscar is a friendly and cooperative student who consistently goes out of his way to help others. Each day, he takes the initiative to bring a stack of kippah from home to share with classmates, ensuring no one has to make an extra trip to the office, a small but thoughtful act that speaks to his caring nature.
Beyond his kindness, Oscar is a dedicated member of the Dungeons & Dragons Club and played a key role in our recent school production of School of Rock. Not only did he contribute on stage, but he also helped design one of the key costumes, showcasing his creativity and enthusiasm for the arts.
Oscar’s kindness, leadership, and dedication to our school community make him a shining example of what it means to be a King David student. Mazal Tov, Oscar!
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Mazal Tov to Max James (Class of 2011) and Megan Leigh on their marriage.
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Our talented alumnus, Rachel Gerber (Class of 2023) is making waves in Toronto, studying Event and Live Entertainment Management while capturing unforgettable moments through her photography!
From four different sororities and fraternities to recreational sports teams and Hillel Ontario, Rachel has been the go-to photographer for vibrant events and dynamic organizations.
Looking for a talented photographer? Rachel is available for hire, she is in Vancouver until the end of summer!
See her work here.
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Join Grade 9 student Jack Schwartz and his father Daniel for an unforgettable journey through two generations of magic!
The show is packed with hilarious moments, mind-bending tricks, and heartwarming stories about the impact of magic on their lives—and their relationship.
As a King David High School student, Jack is thrilled to share this special experience with his community.
April 16, 2025
Tickets here.
Ages: 12 and older
Book today as almost sold out!
| | SHABBAT SHALOM! !שבת שלום | | |
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Click on image for more information
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Bring Them Home Now
Rally
Sunday, March 23
2:00 p.m.
Location: Vancouver City Hall
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Zusia Beit Midrash: Doing Halakha Together
With Sophie Morin
Wednesday, March 26
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Register here.
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Light in Winter: Illiteratty
Saturday, March 29
8:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Register here.
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HFLA Shuk
Sunday, March 30
7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
More info here.
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Kochav Nolad Community
Talent Show
Call Out for Performers
Applications accepted online
until March 31!
Register here.
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Gotta Sing! Gotta Dance!
Musical Theatre Summer Camp Ages 9-19
Deadline for application: April 1
Session 1 – July 8 to 31
Session 2 – August 5 to 28
For information read here.
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Masterclass with a Mediatrician
Thursday, April 3
5:00 - 6:30 p.m. PDT
Location: Online
Reserve your spot here.
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Pesach Fruit and Vegetable Program
Order by Friday, April 4
12:00 p.m.
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Torah Tales: Adventures in Scribal Art
April 6, 2025
11:oo a.m. PT
Location: online
Register here.
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Matzah, Maror & Meaning:
A Pre-Pesach Gathering
Monday, April 7
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Register here.
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Burn Your Chametz
Friday, April 11
11:00 - 12:00 p.m.
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Mame-loshn in Vancouver
With Helen Mintz, Faith Jones, Rachel Mines & Seymour Levitan
March 25, April 8 and 22, May 6
Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Register here.
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Passover Second Night Adult Seder
Sunday, April 13
7:30 p.m.
RSVP by March 30, 2025
Register here.
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The Third Seder: Understanding Addiction and the Path to Freedom
Tuesday, April 15
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Register here.
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Taglit - Birthright Israel
June 16-26, 2025
More info here.
| | King David High School acknowledges we teach, learn and live on the traditional and ancestral lands of the Coast Salish nations of Musqueam (xʷməθkʷəy̓əm), the Squamish (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh), and the Tsleil-Waututh (səl̀ilwətaʔ). | | | | |
