"In just these months, I've noticed that Yavneh's an exceptionally unique school," said Coach Sarah Warmbrodt who has assisted with Yavneh's Lady Bulldogs, taught P.E., and supervised the Student Lounge and study hall periods.  "The school provides a safe haven for students where they feel very comfortable and relaxed. I've seen many students form special connections with their peers and the whole student body seems to unite and support each other in a family-like bond." 

 "It was a great and inspiring experience to assist with the Lady Bulldogs sports this year," said Coach Warmbrodt.  "Considering it's my first experience coaching, I learned many things from Coach Chris Walker and Coach Loren Weaver because they are the strongest and most supportive coaches I've ever met."

"Both of them demonstrate their constant love and support for the students through their moral teachings and kind demeanor," said Coach Warmbrodt.  "I learned that as a coach, you have the responsibility of becoming many roles such as a strong motivator, supporter, role model, organizer, friend, counselor and encourager. I learned how to encourage when helping an athlete strive for improvement, helping players reach their individual goals based on their strengths and abilities, and maintain constant motivation to generate excitement and enthusiasm."

Prior to her arrival at Yavneh last fall, Coach Warmbrodt, a 2008 graduate of Texas Women's University, with a Bachelors in Science degree in Kineseology, and a minor in Education/Special Education, taught kindergarten, third, fifth, and sixth grades. "I have a strong passion for teaching children and know in my heart that teaching is something that fulfills me and brings great rewards in life," she said, excited about next year starting her graduate studies, toward a counseling degree. 

Interested in becoming certified in all-level school counseling, to help evaluate student's interests and abilities academically and to offer help and support for dealing with social or behavioral problems that may be interfering with their education, Coach says "the key for me is to be able to establish a positive rapport and build strong relationships with my students, showing them empathy and encouraging a connection.

Summer break for Coach isn't so much break as it is a time where she can continue connecting with youth.  Working at KidzConnect, a summer program in Coppell, she has taught sports classes, collaging, photography, babysitting class, and a fashion and makeup class to campers who are six to 12-years-old.

"While this is my first year, and I'm still getting to know some of the students, I have built ties with the girls in my P.E. classes," said Coach Warmbrodt.  "The classes are small enough that  I'm able to get to know more about the young ladies as individuals.  During our Health classes, we are able to talk about a broad spectrum of issues which allows them to open up about personal experiences." 

"I appreciate being at Yavneh where I'm surrounded by positive, dedicated, respectful students and having a fully supporting staff that is always looking out for our best interests and willing to give a hand," said Coach.  "The most challenging issue has been to shift my perception from teaching elementary aged students to High School students. Throughout this year so far I feel as I've conquered more than I could ever imagine. I've learned so many things and I am eager to learn more."

"Coach is very friendly and she really tries to make things clear, explaining what exercises and programs will do, or how they will help us," said Ella Baum '14.  "She gives options of what we might want to work on, whether it's cardo or weights or whatever, but she always keeps us involved."

During her Freshman year at Creekview High School in Carrollton, where she was involved in Basketball and Track, the future coach's Chemistry teacher, Mr. Warnock, left a lasting impression through his "incredible motivation, the fun spirit, and he was passionate towards his students," she said.  "Mr. Warnock, and a few others left an imprint on me because of their overall amusement for teaching and absolute inspiration towards helping us succeed.  That's what I want to be for my students."

"I know I could go talk to her about almost anything," said Ella, "and it's nice that, even in a teacher new to our school, she understands us."

"Whether it is as a role-model, someone they can trust and confide in," said Coach Warmbrodt, "or if I am simply remembered as an effective educator that taught them something valuable, something they can cherish for their future."

Guaranteed Coach, you will score more points than any ledger can record in your career - Yavneh's students lucky to be at its forefront.

While joining the Class of 2011 at its closing scene, Faith has become a lifelong friend and member of the Class.  "I have made so many friends and some students say our class is so amazing and so awesome. I'm just glad I came at the right time to be a part of them," she said.  "The Seniors I've bonded with have shared the most amazing and wildest experiences with me and I feel truly happy to be a part of such an amazing class."

"Yavneh seemed right and I enjoy Yavneh because its small and I know everyone individually and uniquely," said Faith.  "It feels like a family. Everyone here is so generous, polite and always smiling."

The daughter of Yaffa and Elishema, Faith is the sister of Jaret, Andrew, and Stephanie '14, and the aunt of Elijah, Lexus, and Phynix.  A member of Congregation Achdut Israel, Faith has connected to many Yavneh organizations including Hashinui, HELP/Helping Everyone Live Peacefully, Yearbook, and the Lady Bulldogs Soccer team.

Born in McAllen, Texas, Faith and her family moved to Dallas, completing the long-sought conversion process thru Rabbi Binyamin Terenyo.  "We wanted to be closer to our synagogue, there wasn't one where we are from, and we wanted to have the opportunity to live in a community that made living a Jewish life," said Faith.  "Before we moved, we traveled to Dallas, approximately nine hours each way to study with Rabbi Terenyo and to learn more about this community.  Here, we began to meet people of the synagogue and make friends who helped us move and opened up their homes for Shabbat dinner until we were settled.  Now, we are home."

Faith, who previously attended public schooling, appreciated the education, and Jewish connection that coming to Yavneh provided.  "The best part is having class with the people I've grown close to and for most of my classes get me smiling and at the same time strengthening my Judaism.  While it's tough having 10 classes a day, in the end it's totally worth it," said Faith. "I've never had a Jewish teacher so it feels pretty amazing to have someone to look up to who understands where your coming from. All of this is new to me so it's fun to be able to learn new things you will carry for the rest of your life."

"Faith; confidence in a person or thing.  How appropriately named is this senior who has true reason to trust and have confidence in herself, her talents, and her goodness," said Deb Silverthorn, who has included Faith's talents as a photographer this year in a number of publications this year.  "A number of Yavneh's '10-'11 images were captured, not only by her ever-present camera, but moreso by her always-present heart.  Faith in just her few months on our campus, has presented what is the best of Yavneh!"

As a participant in the March of the Living, the trip was not only her first to Israel, but also her first on an airplane! "I am really excited about traveling together with all the Seniors outside the country, what Poland and Israel might bring and I am especially excited about spending time with Max Glauben who will be joining us on the trip as well," said Faith.  "My family has always dreamed of going to Israel and I cannot wait!  I will be the first one in my family to go and I look forward to bringing back so much to share with them."

"There are many who have mentioned how they wish Faith had come to us as a Freshman and I'm definitely on that list," said Head of School, Don O'Quinn.  "She is a terrific student, a hard worker, and she's become a part of the Yavneh family in a very short period of time."

"I have a lot of faith, no pun intended. I didn't really realize how much a person's name shapes who they are, but I really am an optimistic person," said Faith who looks forward to entering Texas Woman's University, ready to pursue a career as a pediatric nurse.  "I like looking to the bright side of things and believe that negativity doesn't get anybody anywhere.  A smile on my face is truly who I am."

A smile on your face is what you have brought to Yavneh, and the capture of the smiles, and moments of the faces of Yavneh, is only a bit of what you leave behind.

Ready to rock n'roll, to jazz it up, or to soothe a more classical beat, Leora is headed for the University of Southern California in September, the first step in "wandering around the world with a band of avant garde musicians."   

While Leora hit the high notes on the soccer field as a member of the Lady Bulldog team, she was also a constant at any Yavneh musical production.  "Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything," said Leora who began playing the guitar when she was 12 and who is also key on the keyboards.  "I enjoy exploring all avenues of musicianship, including original composition and improvisation."

"Leora is an exceptional package of talents.  She's got the mind of a great scholar, the heart of a true artist, and she works very diligently at whatever she takes on," said Associate Principal, Social Studies teacher, and overseer of Yavneh's theatre and music programs.  "We are all very interested in watching which direction she will choose because we know that she is capable of great things.  I'm personally hoping that she pursues her artistic talents; she has a poet's incisive comprehension of the world around her and as much musical talent as any student we have ever had."

"Getting to know my teachers is one of the best parts of any class," said Leora, a PSAT National Merit Commandee.  "Through the dual-curriculum program, Yavneh tries to give its students the best of both worlds and it's up to the student to find which classes speak to them."

"My siblings decided to move to Yavneh from the public schools in Allen and I followed along," said Leora, who came to Yavneh, from Allen High School, as a sophomore.  "The people here, the faculty, students, everyone, genuinely cares and that's what I've enjoyed most."

"Leora is very quiet, unassuming, hard working, full of self discipline, and not wanting to call attention to herself," said Math teacher, Veronica Thomas, in whose class Leora spent three years, two of which she received Math end-of-year awards.  "This is the Leora that I encounter daily.  Whatever she pursues as a career, I know that she will be very successful."

A native of Baltimore, Leora is the daughter of Judy, Avi and Shelley Mitzner, and the sister of Saul, Evan '10, Becky '10, Jonah '14, Sam, Jacquie, and Tammy.  A member of Congregation Shearith Israel, she has been very involved in that synagogue's United Synagogue Youth chapter. 

High school summer memories for Leora include in 2009, six weeks on a USY-sponsored program in Israel that included travel, volunteering, and participating in Gadna, the Israel government youth movement for training teens in defense and national service and, a month of 2010 studying at the Berklee College of Music, immersed in music classes, concerts, and all-day jam sessions.

All day, all her life, as long as Leora keeps jammin', hers is a beat we'll follow.

"I wanted to attend a smaller school and Yavneh provided that, and it does so in an environment that is more like a home for a family, not so much like a school," said Katie.  "We all care for each other; it doesn't matter if you are a teacher, a student, or a faculty member - we all care for each other.  Everyone is always happy to see each other and when something is wrong, we are always there for each other."

The daughter of Kristyle and big sister to Carlyn, together they are members of Congregation Beth Torah.  Katie is very proud of her conversion to Judaism at just 10-years-old.  "I feel that the beliefs of Jewish people are the same as my own and that converting to Judaism with my mother and brother was what was right for me," she said.  "Yavneh has given me a chance to see Judaism in several different ways and through the eyes of people from every denomination."   

"The students at Yavneh are as committed to their General Studies as they are to their Judaic Studies and, while our day is 10-periods long, it's more than common to many students spend time working on homework and projects in the Student Lounge after school has let out," said Katie.  "The teachers are always happy to help the students with dedication."

"Katie is quiet and reserved - always on time and always prepared," said Art teacher, Monica Ribald."She takes her work seriously, she strives for perfection, and I could always count on her to set an example for the others.  Katie will be someone who makes an impact in this world as she is first and foremost reliable, self-motivated, and an independent thinker. It was a pleasure to have such a student in my class.

A former member of the Lady Bulldogs Junior Varsity Volleyball Team, Katie has been involved in Yavneh's environmental organization, Hashinui/The Change.  She has spent summers working at Chabad of Plano's Camp Gan Israel and volunteering at the Dallas Zoo, her home away from home, since she was 13-years-old.

"I have always had a passion for animals, working with animals and learning about them," said Katie.  "I began there working as Junior Zookeeper, then as a Conservation Guide.  I've enjoyed working at the Zoo's Summer Camp because I had the chance to work with campers in grades pre-K through eighth grade."Katie, who will attend Texas A&M Commerce, as a Freshman in their Honors College, will major in Animal Science, preparing her for a career as a Zookeeper.  "I don't have a preference, but it would be really nice to work at the Dallas Zoo." 

"The best advice I ever received was to 'not procrastinate' and to 'be yourself," said Katie.  "Putting anything off makes everything ten times harder to do and, because I am a shy person, and it has always been hard for me to be open to people I don't know, being told to be myself reminds me that if other people don't like me it's not a big deal and that its their problem, not mine."

Not ever to procrastinate on letting Katie know that it's not possible to not love you, we wish you, and all the animals in your future, a life of care, goodness, and joy.  

"I enjoy, like many have said, the family aspect of Yavneh," said Jonathan, keying in on the student:teacher relationships that allow open conversation and, for me, I've found that what I learned in Judaic Studies can be applied to what I learn in my General Studies, and those are lessons that will carry me through college, and life."

"Jonathan is an unstoppable force," said Science Department Chair, Dr. Steve Goldfine.  "He always had his hand-up in class to asked novel questions and he has provided both insightful and sometimes fantastic answers to my questions.  I only wish all of my students were as enthusiastic about class and learning."

Headed for Israel, to study at Yeshivat Mechinat Yeud, Jonathan is excited about the freedom the program provides for exploring the country.  In the fall of 2012, Jonathan will begin studies toward a mechanical engineering degree, at Drexel University, where he looks forward to that school's co-op program. 

A native of Johannesburg, South Africa, Jonathan and his parents, Cheryl and Cyril, and younger brother Kevin '12, moved to Dallas while he was in the middle of third grade.  A graduate of Akiba Academy, Kevin is a member of Congregation Shaare Tefilla, and has been involved in both NCSY (National Council of Synagogue Youth) and Bnei Akiva.  As Scorekeeper for the Bulldog Basketball Team, Captain of Yavneh's Bulldog Tennis Team, and President this year of Students Against Terrorism, for which he previously served as Treasurer and Vice-President, it's the drive behind Yavneh's student community that he is proud of.  "I appreciate the projects Yavneh students are involved with and the responsibility that we are given, to make a difference, that our administration allows," he said.   

"Jonathan is an adult in a teen-agers body; a great kid and you could not find a high school student who is more reliable," said Dr. Tim Cloward.  "Rarely have I seen a high school student display the level of maturity that Jonathan maintains.  Having him oversee our Audio-Visual equipment was like hiring a professional team.  I don't know what I will do now that he is graduating."

The right-hand man, and frankly the left-hand man too for any and all lighting, sound, and electrical issues, Jonathan has been behind the plug-ins from his first day on Campus. "I have always been very good with technology and, with plenty of help from many, I have taught myself most of what I know," he said.  "Yavneh will be fine once I graduate as I have been teaching others how to work everything.  No worries!"

No worries, is right, Jonathan.  Thanks to all things techno, should the need arise, your fingers will do the talking, and your touch is one that in our station, will always remain.

Kol Hakavod to Yavneh's Students4Students organization whose leaders,

Jori Epstein '12, Dalit Agronin '12, and Rachel Siegel '13, recently delivered a check for $10619.64 to Stan Rabin, a representative of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.  "This is fantastic and we extend a 'Thank You' to the kids, and to Yavneh and their parents for instilling the values of tzedakah and gimilut chasadim, of charity and of acts of lovingkindness," said Rabin.  "Our community has had a great impact and it's wonderful to see the youth of Dallas putting forth such great efforts and with such success."

Students4Students raised the monies to build a school for the children of Addis Ababa, spirited by the efforts of Dr. Rick Hodes, an American doctor who has devoted his life to helping the most desperate of Ethiopians in need of medical treatment.   The group has held a screening of Dr. Hodes' story in "Bewoket: By the Will of God" and "Making the Crooked Straight," and a book signing, with Marilyn Berger, the author of "This is a Soul; The Mission of Rick Hodes."

HELPING HANDS FOR THE HOMELESS  photos by Liora Dickter 

In its debut fundraising fore, Yavneh's Helping Hands for the Homeless (HHH) posted a strong success with close to 130 guests helping to raise almost $25,000 in their effort to support the children and programs of Jonathan's Place. 

"Many of those who came to help hadn't ever heard of the plight of the children behind the doors of Jonathan's Place and now they are as inspired as we are to help," said Rachel Goodman '13, co-founder of HHH.  "Some of the children we'll help are our age and in so many ways we are alike, in others, very different.  Through this fundraiser we can connect with some of them."

Since 1994, Jonathan's Place has served as an emergency shelter for abused, abandoned and neglected children, age newborn to 17 years. It is a temporary home that provides basic needs, including food, clothing and education, and advanced needs, including medical, dental and psychological.

"There is a huge need and we can't fill it all.  We try, we're here 24/7, but there's so much more to be done," said Bill Ansel, Jonathan's Place Development Associate who attended the event.  "I've put events together and I know what it takes.  To see the pride in these kid's faces, and to know they are experiencing the fruits of their labor, is inspiring.  It's rare for kids to worry."

"The whole sense of giving back is lost on many, but not on these kids," said Mr. Ansel, noting that the $2.1 million operating budget of Jonathan's Place is only met to a third by government funding.  "We need to raise $1.4 million each year in private funding.  Many of the grants we receive are less than what Yavneh's kids brought together. It really was awesome."

"Everyone we went to for help wanted to be a part of this program, to be a part of making a difference," said Rachel.  "From the food and linens, to the raffle tickets and auction prizes, we explained the story of Jonathan's Place and people responded."

"This was our first event and we surpassed our fundraising goal significantly," said Gabby Steinbrecher, '12.  "To be a teenager and to be able to put on an event like this makes me realize the endless possibilities of what we can do to help.  I never knew that a small group could do so much to actually make a difference."

Participating caterers who donated many of their services and meals included A Taste of the World, Café Fino, Frosted Art, Madres Pavilion, Milk and Honey, and Simcha Kosher Catering.  "We are so thankful to everyone who supported us, we had so many donors, and without their help, we would not have been as successful," said Gabby.  "It meant a lot to us that almost everyone we asked for help, found a way to support us."

"The young men and women who put this program together are competent students who have talents, skills, and a strong commitment to helping others," said Don O'Quinn, Head of School.  "This event was a huge success and I'm very proud of all of them.  The history of Yavneh's students doing good for others is significant and I look forward to watching this group grow and be a part of the legacy that is Yavneh."

Mazal Tov to our Musicians, under the  

direction of Kim Corbet, Jori Eptsein, Kayley Romick, Lane Engelberg, Yoni Gershon, Jordan Cope, Justin Katz, Ella Baum, Benji Liener, and Eitan Barak.

Poets and Creative Writing participants, with the tutelage of Phyllis Beilue, Gloria Boyd,  

Dr. Tim Cloward, Sandy Hall Chiles, Dr. Paula Harvey, and Peggy Leeman, rhymed, reasoned, and read the most meaningful, serious, and of words. Kudos to Brittany Barnett, Jared Katz, Faith Medina, Abbie Denemark, Shimi Wolk, Elan Kogutt, AJ Burk, Kayley Romick, Sara Jane Goldenberg, Zoe Elewitz, Michelle Tanur, Sarah Weiss, Jamie Kleinman, Noa Waks, Leigh Bonner, and Justine Berman.

YAD Literary Journal, sponsored by Dr. Tim Cloward, Brittany Barnett, Sara Jane Goldenberg, Faith Medina, Michelle Tanur, Elan Kogutt, Abbie Denemark, Leigh Bonner, Sarah Weiss, and Noa Waks (not pictured, Sandy Hall Chiles).

and the Senior Creative Writing Class members, in their Ode to the College Application Process -

AJ Burk, Michelle Tanur, Faith Medina, Noa Waks, Sarah Weiss, Elan Kogutt,

Jamie Kleinman, Jared Katz, Brittany Barnett, and Shimi Wolk (not seen - with apologies, Leigh Bonner,  Abbie Denemark, Zoe Elewitz, Sara Jane Goldenberg, and Shelbi Karlebach.)

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Kol Hakavod to the Cast and Crew, of Yavneh's Theatre Crew which presented Ernest Hemingway's "The Importance of Being Earnest" as its 2010-2011 feature.  Directed by Isabella Russell-Ides, a dedicated group of students took to the stage to present a top-rated show. 

Kudos to Evie Denemark, Eitan Barak, Shiran Boim, Mika Stein, Isabella Russell-Ides, Brittany Barnett, Dalya Romaner, Sara Jane Goldenberg, Michelle Tanur, and Leigh Bonner

And to Crew Members Stuart Palvadeau, Kayley Romick, Sheera Krengel, Yael Spirer, Jonathan Sulski, Michelle Friedstadt, Dania Tanur, and Yaakov Stolovitsky.

Many thanks as well to members of Yavneh's Music Ensemble for providing the accompanying interludes and to Shiran Boim, Michelle Friedstadt, Rachael Lefevre, Monica Ribald's Art Class, and Yavneh's Maintenance Crew for their artistic talents, providing for beautiful set design!

The young women of Yavneh and their mothers were treated to a Mother/Daughter opportunity of a lifetime when Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz offered a private learning session.  After joining in an all-school morning prayer service, at which Rabbi Steinsaltz shared with our greater community, the women hosted breakfast and learning with the rabbi. 

"It was amazing to have Rabbi Steinsaltz, someone of such knowledge and so renown,  

on our Campus, was really very exciting for us," said Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum, Associate Principal, Judaic Curriculum.  

"Rabbi Steinsaltz has dedicated his entire life to spreading Judaism and teaching others in Israel and the former Soviet Union.  His visit was an inspiration to the students and teachers as well. 

Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz a teacher, philosopher, social critic and prolific author, is known for much including his translation of the Talmud, a project which he began in 1965,  

and which spanned more than 45 years.

"Rabbi Steinsaltz's visit provided a learning experiencefrom one of the most respected and important Torah scholars of our time," said Associate Principal, Judaic Programming, Naomi Schrager.  "The women; students, faculty, parents, and guests, all felt that the content and message of the class were secondary to the overall experience of being graced with the presence of such a brilliant talmid chacham, a Torah scholar.We learned a section of Talmud together and felt, as always, that learning Torah is a meaningful way of bringing different parts of the community together."

SHABBATON  photos by Faith Medina

Yavneh's Spring Shabbaton, held once again at Mt. Lebanon Retreat in Cedar Hill. From setup before Shabbat, to a Sunday morning close, students and faculty shared in what has become, as our Senior Class readies to depart, an end of year celebration.  

"The Shabbaton was amaizing, full of life and enthusiasm," said Associate Principal of Judaic Curriculum, Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum.  "The Senior Girls really stole the show with spirited dancing and singing."  

The 2011 Color Wars Games found a home at the Shabbaton which also featured Shabbat services, dancing, a great bonfire, and lots of memories!  "It was a lot of fun and a great first opportunity to say 'farewell' to our seniors," said Rabbi Tannenbaum.  "We are already looking forward to our first Shabbaton of the next school year!"

BULLDOG PRINT AWARD WINNERS

 

Yavneh's Journalism teacher and The Bulldog Print advisor, "Hallch" was awarded the Max Haddick Teacher of the Year award, named by the ILPC for its former longtime director.

"I have always been fascinated by language: the power of words, their origins, their evolution. Journalism, to me, is the penultimate community service," said Sandy Hall Chiles, the wife of Andy, and who shared the award with Patti Simon of Bellaire High School in Houston.  "As journalists, we become experts at sorting through human events, interpreting them when necessary, and imparting what is important the public know in order to make informed decisions. It's a heady responsibility."

 

"Sandy didn't work with a paper that already existed, she created this program and she did that in year one," said Jeanne Acton, head of the ILPC.  "That is highly unusual and the work that comes from The Bulldog Print and its staff is really terrific.  In Sandy, they have a great teacher."

 

The Bulldog Print staff members continued their success with honors to many members of its staff including Rachel Siegel '13
(Honorable Mention Feature Writing),
Jori Epstein'12 (3rd place News Feature),
Bradley Riche '13 (Honorable Mention Double Truck Design), Dalya Romaner '14 (Honorable Mention Personal Opinion Column), Leigh Bonner '11 (1st place Sports Feature), and,
 (not pictured) Emily Rosenfeld '12 (2nd place Page One Design).

 

2011 Dallas Morning News High School Journalism Day awards were earned by Bryan Benaim '12 (Sports News Reporting), David Dunsky '12 (Graphics Portfolio), Jori Epstein '12 (Most Valuable Staffer by The Bulldog Print staff), and DMN honoree,
Gabby Steinbrecher '12
  (Short Feature). 

 

Becky Schisler '10, now at Wesleyan University, received 2011 Newspaper Tops In Texas for In-Depth News/Feature Story.  Schisler's story about the Blumka family, including Ron, Mitchell '10 and Millie '12, and the brave fight their mother Susan (of blessed memory) waged against cancer, and how the family surrounded her and shared as a team, will be featured in The Radical Write, by Bobby Hawthorne.  "Becky's work was really incredible," said Ms. Acton, "Becky's piece won first place among award winners.  "It took me three sittings to read through the story and when you read this, you are in the room with the family.  Never before have I read anything so powerful from a student."

 

"This story really changed me as a writer and as a person.  I can't say that enough," Becky.   "I think that when you're truly immersed and involved in something, when the story flows and you hardly have to think about it, when the most difficult part is dealing with your own intense emotions throughout the process, that's when you know you're doing something right, that you're doing something real."

 

"I certainly could not imagine in my most wild of dreams that Becky's article would have such a resounding interest at an amalgam of levels," said Ron Blumka, the family's patriarch.  "Becky was the consummate journalist, she asked poignant questions and probed gently yet persistently into our past and present lives, into the good times and those sad times as Susan fought her final battle."

 

"Throughout the interview, Becky was intrepid and unwavering in her desire to be sensitive and mature about our family's struggle," said Ron. 

 

"I'm very proud of The Bulldog Print staff and its director.  Sandy and our students produce a great newspaper, among the best in its class," said Head of School, Don O'Quinn.  "From the start they have been the envy for many schools across the nation, with Sandy leading them quickly to awards on the local, state, and national level."

 

"More importantly," said Mr. O'Quinn, Sandy leads our students to a love for writing, a respect of journalism, and a concern for doing important work.  They work hard, they provide a voice for the students, and they learn by doing.  It's great to see them respected for doing just that."

MAY  BIRTHDAYS 

1 Sheera Krengel & Deb Silverthorn   4  Liora Zhrebker    

5  Jared Katz, Kayley Romick, and Rabbi Howard Wolk    6  Ari Dembo

7  Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum    12  Ali Feinstein    13  David Dunsky

14 Michelle Friedstadt    15  Annette Wolk    19  Michelle Tanur  

20  Stephanie Medina & Rhonda Russell  21  Itai Guttman  22  Jordan Cope   

                 23  Ari Margolies     24  Jonah Mitzner & Chris Walker             

A belated April 29 birthday wish to Lane Engelberg

~~Nava Newman '08 and Yoni Danielli on their recent engagement!  

OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ~

KIND KIDS AT YAVNEH ~~  

Sophomores Liora Dickter and Katie Lerer have found a sweet way to be sweet.  Following the lead of KIND healthy snacks providers, they are participating in the company's KIND Movement. KINDing Missions, which are to be carried out the first Tuesday of each month, always entail surprising someone with an unexpected act of kindness. 

April's Mission was to give a flower, and Liora and Katie bestowed posies upon the Schultz Rosenberg Campus' Maintenance Team. "Our maintenance workers are so nice and generous and they do an incredible job for us," said Liora.  "They were very appreciative and excited and it was cool to be a part of the KINDing Mission! I hope more people will sign up." On May 3, the Mission was to give a healthy snack to someone who educates others.

"This is an amazing movement and the KIND bars are amazing as well," Liora said, noting that the OU snacks are among her favorite sweet treat.  "I was so happy and proud and I sent the company our story and it appeared on their blog!"   

Katie and Liora invite Yavneh family members to sign up, sign on, and be KIND!  For more information or to officially register to participate in future months, visit http://www.kindsnacks.com/world/

LEWIN '08 LEAVING FOR UGANDA - YOUR CHANCE TO HELP!

Yavneh Alum '08 and co-founder of HELP, Helping Everyone Live Peacefully, Gabbi Lewin will be spending her summer making memories, and HELPing the world - her favorite "hobby."  As a participant in the Uganda Orphans Rural Development Program, she will spend two months promoting care and support to orphans with HIV/AIDS, their families, and communities.  Gabbi and her peers will be working on the construction of two primary schools in the Ramogi local village, the renovation of a health center, and the building of a community market stall at a trading center.   With no running water and limited electricity, Gabbi is expecting this to be one of the most humbling experiences and challenges in her life. "My familial ties to South Africa have always sparked a dream for me to volunteer near my roots," said the rising senior at New York University. 

The project is organized by American Jewish World Service a non-profit humanitarian organization that partners with grassroots organizations in local impoverished communities to foster growth, alleviate poverty, hunger and disease.  Gabbi was first introduced to AJWS when funds from the premiere year of HELP were shared, through American Jewish World Service Sudan Relief and Advocacy Fund."Ruth Messinger, President of AJWS, remains a role model of mine and I am excited to participate in one of their largest hands-on projects."

Gabbi has received a very generous scholarship from AJWS to participate with this program but is hoping to raise the remaining $2500 necessary.  To donate, visit

https://secure.ajws.org/site/Donation2?idb=1628441184&df_id=1360&1360.donation=form1  

and enter "Gabbi Lewin" under the "Volunteer Information" section.  All donations, which must be received by June 1, 2011, are tax-deductible and anonymous to other donors.

ELIMINATING ETHIOPIAN POVERTY ~~  

Mesfin Hodes is continuing to collect clothing, school supplies, and financial donations for the residents, young and old, of the Lemlem Orphanage as well as Mission of Charity, the orphanage he lived in as a young boy.  Returning home for the summer, Mesfin will be shipping the goods received, and delivering them along with food and other necessities.  Donations of luggage, worn or new, would also be appreciated as a tool to transfer the donations.  Donations may be delivered to Yavneh Academy of Dallas (note: EEP).  For more information, email info@yavnehdallas.org

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

MAY

15 ~~  25TH ANNUAL JCC BAGEL RUN  8am @ JCC 

           The 25th Annual JCC Bagel Run hosts a KidsK, a 5K, a 10K, and the only "Fastest Rabbi"

           category of any local race in North Texas!!! Come run, eat, be entertained, and share in the  

           community spirit!  To register or for more information, contact Jon Mize at 214.239.7147 or  

           visit www.jccdallas.org.

           BNAI ZION ANNUAL BRUNCH  10am @ Westin Galleria

           DEBBIE & ERIC GEROGATOS - ZELDA & SHAWN MASH           

           Proceeds benefit AHAVA Village for Children & YouthBnai Zion's Village for  

           abused and neglected children.  For reservations or more information, call  

           Avrille Harris-Cohen at 972.918.9200 or email avrille.harris-cohen@bnaizion.org 

18 ~~ FOOD, EATING BEHAVIORS & BODY IMAGE IN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY

22 ~~ 4th ANNUAL ZWEIG FAMILY END OF SCHOOL BASH

           SUPPORTING GLADYS GOLMAN/FAYE DALLEN SPECIAL NEEDS FUND

           2 to 4:30pm @ 300 DALLAS BOWLING (3805 Belt Line Rd in Dallas)  

           $18/person.  Teams are encouraged!  

2011 AP EXAM SCHEDULE  

LATE TESTING SCHEDULE  2011

 Wednesday, May 18 @ 9am  

US GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS        

 Thursday, May 19 @ 9am  

CALCULUS AB       

 Friday, May 20  @ 9am  

ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION   

Tuesday, May 24 @ 12pm

MUSIC THEORY          

2011 SPRING EXAM SCHEDULE

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

8:30 - 10am                  Shachrit/Breakfast

10am - 12noon           Jewish Thought and Law

Rabbi Tannenbaum (JTL III) ...............    902

Rabbi Tannenbaum (JTL II) .................   904

Rabbi Grebenau (JTL I).........................  907

Mrs. Schrager (JTL II) ..........................  905

12noon t0 1:30pm         Lunch/Study

1:30-3:30pm  English

Ms. Hall-Chiles.....................................  902

Dr. Harvey ...........................................  907

Mrs. Beilue ..........................................  905

3:30pm  Dismissal - Students daven at home.  Building open until  6pm           

Wednesday, June 1

8:30 - 10am                  Shachrit/Breakfast

10am - 12noon           Chumash

Mrs. Schrager...................................... 905 

Mrs. Friedman....................................  900

Rabbi Grebenau (Fundamentals)........  907

Rabbi Wolk (Fundamentals)...............  904

Mr. Rosenzweig................................... 902

Ilana Rosenzweig................................ 906

12:00---01:30         Lunch/Study

1:30-3:30  Math

Mrs. Thomas .....................................  902

Mrs. Freidman (Algebra I).................  905

Mrs. Freidman (Algebra II)................ 906

Mr. Northrup ....................................  907

3:30pm  Dismissal - Students daven at home.  Building open until  6pm           

Thursday, June 2

8:30-10:00                  Shachrit/Breakfast

10am - 12noon  Talmud (Oral Law)

Rabbi Tannenbaum (Oral Law & Iyun) ............ 902            

Rabbi Tannenbaum (Aggadata) ......................  900            

Rabbi Grebenau (B'Kiut) ................................  904

Rabbi Wolk......................................................  905

Mr.  Rosenzweig (Jewish History) ..................  907

12noon - 1:30pm         Lunch/Study  

1:30---3:30  Social Studies

Dr. Cloward .................................................... 902

Mr. Dembo Geography)................................... 905

Mr. Dembo (World History)............................  906

3:30pm  Dismissal - Students daven at home.  Building open until  6pm           

Friday, June 3

8:30 - 10am                  Shachrit/Breakfast

100am to 12noon     Finals Make-up Period

No normal exams scheduled this period will be used for make-up exams 

12noon - 1:30pm      Lunch/Study

1:30 - 3:30pm            Science

Dr Goldfine ...................................................  902 

Mrs. Linzey ...................................................  905

Mr. O' Quinn .................................................  907

3:30pm                               Dismissal for Summer Break           

                           Lynn University, Simmons College, University of Missouri, Wheelock College

                       Lynn University, SUNY/Binghamton, University of Pittsburgh

Elan Kogutt ~~ Boston University, New York University, University of Maryland,  

                           University of Texas/Austin, Yeshivat Orayta

Noa Waks ~~ University of Maryland, University of Miami, University of Texas/Austin

Sarah Weiss ~~ Machon Maayan, SUNY/Binghamton, University of Maryland,  

                          University of Michigan,  Northeastern University

Shimon Wolk ~~ Reishit Yerushalayim, Rutgers University, Yeshivat Shaare Mevaseret Tzion

                            Yeshiva University

~~ YAVNEH COLLEGE GUIDANCE

For more information regarding scholarships, application deadline, and any other college related issues, read the Senior Times or check in with Allyn Schmucker, Yavneh's College Guidance Counselor at 214.295.3500 or email aschmucker@yavnehdallas.org 

The Dallas Hebrew Free Loan association has interest free Jewish Youth Experience Loans

of up to $1,500 available for students wishing to attend either Jewish Camp, Youth Group Events, or Leadership Training in the U.S. or Israel.  For more information, contact Deborah Dana  

Agency Coordinator, at 214-696-8008 or visit  www.dfla.org  

JFS Expressive Arts Therapy/Social Skills Teen Group

Mondays, June 13 to July 25 (no class July 4) @ 5:30 to 7pm 

The creation of art can serve as an emotional outlet. Join JFS' 6-week journey of self-exploration and creativity, producing art through a variety of mediums including collage, drawing, poetry, writing, movement, and music. Through the sharing of work each week, the group will refine interpersonal communication skills and build on self-esteem. This group is for teen girls, and no prior experience with the arts is required!  For more information, or to register, call 972.437.9950.