Kol Hillel Summer 2025

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2024-2025 / 5784-5785

Educational Administration

Rabbi Ari Leubitz, Head of School

Rabbi Shlomo Sprung*, Rabbinic Head

Craig Carpentieri, Chief Academic Officer

Orly Dromi, Director of Early Childhood Education

Libbie Zimmer, Director of Juda and Maria Diener Lower School

Josh Meisels*, Director of Samuel and Henrietta Scheck Middle School

Benjamin Thompson-Echevarria, Director of High School

Board of Governors

Jacques Bessoudo, Chair

Sharon Minski ‘97, Vice-Chair

Philip Solomon, Treasurer

Martin Fleischer, Secretary

Michael Berkman

Stephanie Gilinski

Isaac Marcushamer

Sara Sevillia ‘03

Jeffrey Scheck*

Daniel Toledano

Joseph Woldenberg

*Scheck Hillel Alumnus/Alumna

About Us

Scheck Hillel Community School educates and inspires students 18 months-Grade 12 to become exemplary global citizens with enduring Jewish identity and values through an individualized college preparatory curriculum highlighted by Design/STEM, Capstone, college dual enrollment, arts, athletics, and community service. Its 14-acres include a 115,000-sq.-ft athletic complex with academic expansion plans. Set within a nurturing, diverse community, Scheck Hillel is one of the world’s largest Jewish community day schools and a National Blue Ribbon School. For more information about Scheck Hillel Community School or to arrange an in-person or virtual tour of the school, please contact our Admissions office at 305.931.2831 or write to admissions@eHillel.org.

Accreditation & Affiliation

• National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

• AISFL (Association of Independent Schools of Florida)

• NCPSA (National Council for Private School Accreditation)

• NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children)

• MSA CESS (Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools)

• AI (Accreditation International)

• COGNIA (formerly SACS, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/ AdvacED)

• Recognized by the Florida Department of Education

• Affiliated with the Orthodox Movement

Head of

SCHOOL MESSAGE

Dear Scheck Hillel Family,

Every time I walk through our hallways, step onto our campus, or listen to the energy of our classrooms, I am reminded of what makes Scheck Hillel so special. It is not just a school—it is a vibrant community, a second home, and a place where Jewish values and academic excellence come to life.

This year, we have seen our students rise to new challenges, excel in their studies, shine in the arts, and bring home victories on the field. They have approached each experience with resilience, passion, and the drive to succeed—not just for themselves, but for something bigger. Through it all, they are guided by the foundation of Torah values, the strength of our traditions, and a deep connection to Israel and the Jewish people.

We also welcomed new families, including those who arrived from Israel in search of safety and stability. The way our community embraced them—offering support, kindness, and a sense of belonging—was a true reflection of who we are. More than ever, we are committed to securing the Jewish future by nurturing the next generation of leaders who will carry our values forward.

One of my favorite parts of each week is spending time with our Lower School students during lunch, listening to their jokes and stories, and seeing their eyes light up with excitement. These moments remind me why we do what we do: to create a place where children feel seen, heard, and inspired to grow into their best selves.

As we continue to build and strengthen our school, I invite you to partner with us. The Annual Lion Fund directly impacts every student, every program, and every opportunity at Scheck Hillel. Your generosity ensures that we continue to provide an unparalleled education in an environment that fosters both academic and Jewish identity. To contribute, please visit eHillel.org/lionfund.

Thank you for your dedication to our school and for being part of the Scheck Hillel family. The future is bright, and it is ours to build—together. With gratitude,

- Rabbi Ari Leubitz Head of School

“These moments remind me why we do what we do: to create a place where children feel seen, heard, and inspired to grow into their best selves.”

WE STAND WITH ISRAEL: A

YEAR OF UNITY, FAITH, AND COMMITMENT

This year, as we marked the anniversary of October 7, our Scheck Hillel community reaffirmed its unwavering support for Israel through meaningful action, connection, and resilience.

A highlight was our Hachnasat Sefer Torah, where students and teachers danced and sang, celebrating the arrival of a new Sephardic Torah scroll—a lasting symbol of faith and tradition.

We welcomed Israeli families from southern kibbutzim , including first responders and their children, for a special Thanks4Giving Mission , sharing a meaningful Shabbat and strengthening our bonds.

Throughout Israel History Month, students explored Israel’s history, culture, and resilience, integrating its rich heritage into daily learning.

Our Grade 10 Israel trip was a powerful, unforgettable journey. This immersive experience deepened their connection to Israel, and left an indelible mark on their Jewish identity and collective memory.

In times of crisis, our Hillel family has come together through fundraising, advocacy, tefillot, and welcoming Israeli families, proving that distance only strengthens our bond.

At Scheck Hillel, Torah, faith, and Israel are at our core. With every act of learning, connection, and prayer, we reaffirm our commitment to Israel.

Am Yisrael Chai.

ISRAEL in our EVERYDAY

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

AT SCHECK HILLEL

A REFLECTION OF OUR VALUES

UPPER SCHOOL

Miami Herald Silver Knight Award in Mathematics & 14 nominations 1

Our AP program set records, with 66 AP Scholars earning

80% pass rate us the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for advancing women in STEM.

MIDDLE SCHOOL IsraelLINK

We launched the curriculum in Rabbinics, deepening students’ connection to Israel.

EARLY CHILDHOOD

Our program maintains ensuring excellence in early education. NAEYC accreditation

CO-CURRICULAR ACHIEVEMENTS

Students excelled in Spelling Bees, Hackathons, and Model United Nations (MUN), showcasing their critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Even in challenging times, our students thrive, supported by dedicated teachers and committed families. Together, we are shaping the next generation of leaders, scholars, and innovators, prepared for success in college and beyond.

At Scheck Hillel, academic excellence reflects our values, commitment to learning, and dedication to Torah and education. This year, our students have reached new heights across all divisions.

National Merit Scholars TOP

50,000 Scholarships

$7,054,608 scorers nationwide on the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT. in university scholarships

JEWISH LIFE

FIELD & COURT

Girls Varsity Volleyball delivered a strong season, reaching the District Semifinals with determination and grit.

Tennis saw tremendous growth, with rising participation across Middle and High School levels and strong performances from both Varsity teams, each opening their spring season with a

6-2 RECORD

Boys MS JV Basketball captured the Championship, highlighting the pipeline of emerging varsity talent.

Boys Varsity Soccer had back-to-back standout seasons, winning District Championships, advancing to the Regional and State Semifinals, and posting an impressive 21–2–1 record along the way.

Boys Varsity Flag Football made a major impact, reaching the Semifinals of the Independent School Flag Football League and later earning national recognition by winning the Atlanta Jewish Academy Spring Classic.

21–2–1

RECORD

Lower School Soccer expanded significantly, launching competitive teams for 4th and 5th graders, growing to over 50 players, and hosting its firstever playoffs.

Girls LS Basketball celebrated a League Championship, showcasing the strength of the program at the foundational level.

Girls Flag Football experienced a surge in participation, helping to broaden the spring sports landscape.

Community partnerships were expanded through strengthened collaborations with local JCCs, securing more athletic spaces to support growth.

Record participation continued across all divisions, including Golf and Cross Country, reflecting a thriving athletic culture.

Middle School Boys Volleyball debuted its first team, offering new athletic opportunities for students.

Looking Ahead, preparations are underway to host the prestigious 2026 Airley Invitational Basketball Tournament, further elevating our athletic profile.

JORDAN ALEXANDER RESSLER PERFORMING ARTS PROGRAM

The Power of Performing Arts at Scheck Hillel: Bringing Stories to Life

At Scheck Hillel, the Jordan Alexander Ressler Performing Arts Program is more than a showcase of talent—it is a platform for storytelling, creativity, and personal expression. This year, our Lower School musical, On The Ark, brought Noah’s Ark to life through the eyes of the animals, with original music, lyrics, and book by Dr. Michel Klein. “I wanted to take a well-known story and give it a fresh twist,” shared Dr. Klein. “Watching my students interact daily, I saw the animal kingdom like a school—filled with friendships, arguments, and the controlled chaos of recess.”

The students’ passion and energy made On The Ark an unforgettable experience. The rehearsal process became a space for collaboration, with students’ input shaping lyrics and melodies. “Many of their suggestions strengthened the final production,” said Dr. Klein.

Beyond On The Ark, our Performing Arts program delivered a year of inspiring performances: Matanot Shelanu celebrated giving and gratitude, rooted in Jewish values. Beetlejuice showcased our students’ acting, singing, and theatrical skills. The Winter and Spring Concerts highlighted our Band and Orchestra’s dedication and musical growth.

At Scheck Hillel, the arts allow students to build confidence, explore creativity, and connect with meaningful stories. “I hope On The Ark continues to inspire audiences to reflect on faith, perseverance, and the beauty of storytelling through music,” Dr. Klein reflected.

In addition to performing arts, our Annual Art Show displayed the incredible visual talents of students across all divisions, transforming our campus into a gallery of color, creativity, and imagination.

We are truly grateful to the family of Judith Lindenfeld z’’l, for their recent generous gift supporting both the endowment and our expanding program.

Northeastern University
Mia Agay Tulane University Shena Aghion University of Florida (Honors)
Shaun Alon
XP/Bentley University
Assraf Yeshivat Aish Hatorah/ Northeastern University
Gabriel Attias Segal Loyola UniversityChicago
Rachel Azolay Santa Fe College
Orin Azuelos
Year Course/ University of Miami
Taly Birnbaum University of Miami Gabriella Bittner
University
Tamara Brown
Cohen
of Miami
Shawn Yechiel Cohen
The University of Texas at Austin
Joel Levi Dejman Vainstein
Lynn University
Liam Edri
University of Florida (Honors)
Samuel Ginsberg Chocron University of Florida Joyce Grobman
XP/University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Haime
Hanan Michlelet Mevaseret
University
Adina Miriam Heinrich University of Chicago
Benjamin Herschman
University of Florida
Ilana Mareyna Zonana Midreshet Eshel/ Yeshiva University
Eliana Moronta Florida International University
Eitan Nahom University of Miami
Ben Ontman Israel Defense Forces
Amit Peretz
Austin Community College
Gabriel Alessandro Sredni Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim/Yeshiva University
Sara Chaya Sterental
Stern
Naomi Shirel Sternberg Pardo
Adela Michelle Sutton Lulka University of Florida
Daniel Sutton Lulka Florida State University
Elie Noah Tamir

CLASS OF 2025 AND THEIR FAMILIES!

ROAR, AS STUDENTS WE SOAR!

University of Central Florida
Noah Behar Florida State University
Kenan Ben-Shalom Babson College Alan Rafael Benacerraf Rodriguez Shnat Hachshara Ba’Aretz/ University of Florida
Max Abraham Benarroch
Yeshiva University Ari Bentov Northeastern University
Ariella Shoshana Berenstein Valencia College Kevin Berg
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Michelle Eilemberg Nova Southeastern University
Sapir Elbilia Boston University
Anoushka Jaye Faith Suffolk University Nicole Fuhrman
Georgia Institute of Technology
Daniel Galante Dayan Indiana UniversityBloomington
Eitan Gallego
University of Central Florida
Raymond Gani
Bar Ilan Talia Herssein Year Course/ University of Miami
Michal Kahn Levy Duke University
Sadie Amelia Lemmer University of Miami
Yitzhak Lopez University of Miami
Camila Luidvinovsky Israel Defense Forces
Tali Lior Lyani University of Florida
David Marcovitz
Indiana UniversityBloomington
Daniel Pool Florida State University Yoel Yosef Rodrig University of Florida Alexander K Schpilberg
of Pennsylvania
Aquiba Serfati University of Florida
Hailey Rachel Shechter The University of Texas at Austin
Daniella Solomon Loyola University Maryland
Leah Sragovicz
George Washington University
Nathalie Irene Toledano University of Maryland
Adam Isaac Waich IE University-Madrid
Isidoro Isaac Waich Beda New York University
Eric Wainer University of Miami
Gabriella Wakszol Northeastern University
Alexia Weininger Bentley University
Daniel Wengrowsky

SENIOR VOICES

Rabbi Ari Leubitz:

“You are the drop of oil. Not yet the flame—but the potential. Not yet the menorah—but the fuel… The world doesn’t need more noise. It needs your light.”

Aquiba Serfati:

“To get you—exactly you—in this moment, in this life, with these people… scientists estimate you would need to flip a coin correctly two million times in a row. That’s the miracle of your existence.”

Ben Thompson:

“The single characteristicgreatest of this group is your capacity to listen with empathy, to learn with curiosity and to

Rabbi Sprung:

"Now is when you start. You have to deepen your connection to Hashem and the Torah. Deepen your connection to your people and your land. Deepen your connection to your past and to your future."

SadieLemmer: “Aswelookthroughthe thousandsofpicturesI havetakenovertheyears, Ifinallyunderstand…we wereneverjustpreserving memories,wewerepiecing togetherthestoryofwho weare.”

Aardvark Israel

Aish Gesher

American University

Amudim

Arizona State University

Babson College

Barry University

Bentley University

Binghamton University

Boston University

Brandeis University

Clark University

Derech Ohr Sameach

Drexel University

Eckerd College

Emerson College

Emory University

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Gulf Coast University

Florida International University

Florida State University

Fordham University

George Washington University

Goucher College

Hawaii Pacific University

Hofstra University

Hult International Business School

HEAR US ROAR

Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Purdue University (IUPUI)

Israel Defense Forces (IDF)

Israel Experience at Bar Ilan

Lesley University

Louisiana State University

Lynn University

Maayanot

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Miami Dade College

Michigan State University

Midreshet Torah V’Avodah (MTVA)

Northeastern University

Nova Southeastern University

Pace University

#HillelisHome

Pennsylvania State University-University Park

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Sharfman’s Seminary

Southwestern University

Stetson University

Syracuse University

Texas A&M University-College Station

The University of Texas at Austin

The Ohio State University

University of Alabama

University of Arizona

University of Central Florida

University of Colorado-Boulder

University of Connecticut

University of Delaware

University of Denver

University of Florida

University of Hawaii-Manoa

University of Maine

University of Maryland

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

University of Massachusetts-Boston

University of Miami

University of Michigan

University of North Florida

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Pittsburgh

University of Rhode Island

University of South Florida

University of Tampa

University of Texas at Austin

University of West Florida

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Yeshiva University

Yeshivat Gush Etzion

Hillel’s Invol ved Pa rents

At Scheck Hillel, learning goes beyond the classroom—and so does community. At the center of our vibrant school life is our Hillel Involved Parents (HIP)/PTA, a devoted group of volunteers who strengthen school spirit, build connections, and enrich the student and family experience.

Throughout the year, HIP/PTA brings families together through engaging programs like the Book Fair, Challah Bake, and Movie Night—each creating memories and fostering meaningful traditions. Their Mishloach Manot initiative ensures every family feels the joy of Purim, while monthly meetings and speaker events offer parents valuable tools for growth and connection.

The Spirit Store and our two beautiful new murals—generously made possible by HIP/PTA—are keeping Hillel pride strong, outfitting our community with school gear and bringing color, joy, and inspiration to our campus.

We are deeply grateful for our HIP/PTA and the countless volunteers who bring warmth, joy, and unity to our school. Thank you for all that you do!

THE HEART OF OUR HILLEL COMMUNITY

WE DID IT

THANKS TO YOU!

Thank you to every donor who helped light the way for our students—nurturing their growth and strengthening the Jewish values that guide us. Your generous contributions to the Annual Lion Fund make a lasting impact. Together, we achieve more!

BUSINESS PARTNERS

BUSINESS PARTNERS

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