Nitzotzot & Annual Report 2016

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201 6 A NN UA L RE P ORT ENC LOSE D

CO NTE NTS

THE MISSION OF JCDS, BOSTON’S JEWISH

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From the Head of School

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Vaad Horim Builds Community

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Parents in the News

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Meet Emily Charton

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New Faces/Trustees Update

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NURTURES EACH STUDENT’S CAPACITY FOR

My Soul Project

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From the Director of Admissions

INTELLECTUAL DISCOVERY AND DECISION-

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JCDS Counts

MAKING WITHIN A RESPECTFUL, PLURALIST,

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Sparks from the School Year

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Academic Program

BILINGUAL HEBREW-ENGLISH ENVIRONMENT.

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2016 Annual Report

From the Board President

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From the Director of Development/

CREATE THEIR FUTURES INFORMED BY

Parent Fundraising Campaign

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Family in Focus

JEWISH VALUES, TEXTS AND CULTURE, AND

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Financial Highlights

TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNI-

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Report of Gifts

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Save These Dates

TIES AND IN THE WORLD.

COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL, IS TO PROVIDE A PREMIER EDUCATION THAT:

GIVES OUR GRADUATES THE ABILITY TO

KINDLES THE FLAME OF LIFELONG LEARNING IN ALL ITS CONSTITUENCIES AND SERVES AS AN INSPIRATIONAL MODEL OF INNOVATIVE, EFFECTIVE AND JOYFUL TEACHING AND LEARNING BEYOND THE SCHOOL.

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F ROM THE HEA D OF SCHOOL

Officers Sari Korman, President Fiona Epstein, Clerk Nathan Hayman, Treasurer Members Yaniv Bejerano Sara Riedner Brown Claudia Davidoff Nicole Lieberman Gann Sophie Gildesgame Kathy Green (Honorary) Alex Gurevich Niki Lamberg Devra Lasden Sharon Levin Adele Newman Howie Rodenstein Alex Sagan Carey Schwartz Tom Schwarz Shiri Segev Elizabeth Waksman Arnee R. Winshall, Founding Chair Head of School Dr. Susie Tanchel Founding Board Naomi Bar-Yam Yaneer Bar-Yam Rabbi Susan Harris Mark Kramer Vardit Ringvald Arnee R. Winshall Walter A. Winshall

It was not by happenstance that our founders named us Boston’s Jewish Community Day School. From its inception, the value of community was one of JCDS’s highest priorities.

Certainly this expressed the school’s commitment to pluralism by welcoming Jews from across the religious spectrum. I believe it also had a message for each of us on an individual level—our founders understood that children’s success depends on their interactions with all the adults in our extended school community.

There is a growing and compelling body of research, including How Children Succeed by Paul Tough, which emphasizes that in order for children to maximally learn and grow, all the adults in their lives need to be paying close attention to their emotional growth and character development and working together to provide a safe, loving environment for them.

At JCDS, we continue to believe all the important adults in our children’s lives are our critical partners. We understand that academically preparing our children for their future inherently includes collaborating closely with other important adults in their lives. As Stephen Sondheim in his brilliant musical “Into the Woods” expressed:

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We are all the role models in our children’s lives; we are all the ones our children are watching, to whom they are turning and from whom they are learning.

In the pages that follow, you will have the opportunity to get to know a few of our incredible partners. They are but some of the representatives of our exceptional parent body.

As we work on teaching and providing our students many opportunities to develop the JCDS Habits of Heart and Mind, the skills and capacities necessary for a fruitful life, we are ever conscious that we are doing so in partnership with all of you. Our close collaboration is what is going to provide our children with the best possible foundation for our shared goal: for our children to learn, to fail, to grow and to develop into knowledgeable mensches who live meaningful, engaged and satisfying lives.

B’shalom,

Dr. Susie Tanchel Head of School

Careful the things you say, children will listen Careful the things you do, children will see and learn Children may not obey, but children will listen Children will look to you for which way to turn

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BOARD O F TRU S TE E S

Students say the Shema prayer during a community Sunrise Shacharit in Arlington in October.

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JCDS is a joyful Jewish

community that learns and celebrates together in rich, colorful, and meaningful ways.

The creative community spirit and school mission go well beyond the walls of JCDS, to events like life cycle celebrations, Shabbat meals, and weekend soccer games.

Vaad Horim Builds Community

2016–2017 Vaad Horim Co-Chairs Andrea Kamens and James Cohen

Since its founding, JCDS has flourished in partnership with a strong parent association. The Vaad Horim builds community, supports faculty and staff, and provides many extras that go beyond the school curriculum.

Co-Chairs James Cohen and Andrea Kamens welcome parents to get involved in volunteer opportunities from discrete, small tasks to taking an idea and running with it.

“Community is the backbone of JCDS,” said James, “and it’s what the Vaad is all about. We are 100% volunteer powered. If you have a great idea, you can make it happen.”

The Vaad organizes activities throughout the year, including monthly teacher

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appreciation breakfasts, parent Torah study groups, K-4 soccer, the annual coat drive, the much anticipated Lag B’Omer bonfire and the community Shabbaton.

“The Vaad is also a go-to resource for new and not-so-new parents,” said Andrea. “We orient each other to the school culture, have parent-to-parent conversations, and form community beyond our children.”

In the Mercaz (main hallway), the Vaad “wall” showcases parent volunteers in action and the many ways the parent association enriches the school.

To learn more, please contact vaad@ jcdsboston.org.

PA RENTS IN THE NEW S

In The New York Times, on the airwaves of NPR, and in bright photos in local newspapers, JCDS parents are making news for their professional achievements.

JCDS applauds all parents for making our

community special for the work they do both inside and outside the school. Let’s get to know each other as people in the world who are role models, not only to our children, but also in our various roles in the world. In this continuing Nitzotzot series, we share with you some recent highlights of the good work happening in our community.

Shirah T. Rubin (parent of Eliora ‘24), the Director of Hebrew Play, recently received an award from The Jewish Theological Seminary Seeds of Innovation Grant. Hebrew Play brings families together to play and learn Hebrew language and Israeli culture through community playgroups. The grant enabled Shirah to travel to Israel to develop new professional development materials for program teachers.

James Cohen (parent of Jason ‘19 and Reggie, a student at Berklee College of Music), the Director of Development for Keshet, a national nonprofit that advocates for LGBTQ Jews,

was among 150 activists from 29 counties selected to attend a conference in Jerusalem for the ROI Global Summit. The organization brings together a diversity of perspectives, skills, and interests toward a shared passion for advancing ideas and partnerships to strengthen Jewish communities and improve society.

William Foster (parent of current JCDS students Trudi ‘17 and Lucy ‘20 and former students Jacob ‘15 and Lilah) is the head of the consulting practice for the Bridgespan Group, a firm that advises nonprofit leaders and philanthropists. Recently, his work on “Big Bets” was published in the Stanford Social Innovation Review. Big Bets was also featured in The New York Times article, “Making Big Donations to Change the World,” in an interview on NPR’s “All Things Considered,” in the Hebrew version of The Economist, and will be the basis for a feature in Forbes magazine this fall.

We want to celebrate the good work you are doing in your work and community. Please send your updates to news@jcdsboston.org.

Above: Shirah T. Rubin with daughters Eliora (left) and Hadara (right).

Right: James Cohen stands with sons Reggie (left) and Jason (right).

Far Right: The Foster family, (from left to right) William, Lucy, Trudi, Lilah, Jacob, and Rachel.

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M E E T E M I LY C HARTO N , JC DS’ S N E W PR IN C IPAL

Jumping into her work as principal, we met with Emily on her third day at JCDS. Emily comes to JCDS from Boston Collegiate Charter School where she was the middle school principal and previously, a reading teacher. We also found out some interesting facts about Emily that might surprise (and impress) you.

What inspired you to become an educator?

E: I knew I wanted to be a teacher when I took a Shakespeare class in my junior year of college. My professor made it feel as if the words jumped off the page. I decided at that moment that I wanted to create that type of learning experience for younger students, so they could be touched earlier in their lives by literature, reading, and the craft of writing as a way to push intellectual boundaries.

Why JCDS? E: The biggest thing that drew me to JCDS was a firm belief in educating the whole child.

It is just as important for students to be empathetic humans and become valuable contributors to our society as it is for them to think critically, write clearly, be mathematically fluent, curious scientists, and global historians.

What skill is essential for a principal?

E: Communication. A principal is in charge of ensuring that the school is running effectively, so that the teachers can teach and the students can learn. Communication is an integral part of making that possible. Additionally, my best thinking around educational philosophies always happens when I’m around the table, communicating with fellow educators.

I think that schools are so often in a hurryup-and-go-mode, and it’s so important to take the time and space to talk about education. I always leave these experiences with several new initiatives to think about and try.

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How do you stay balanced?

E: Outside of school, I chase after my oneyear-old and keep up with her ever-changing developments. I’m also a runner, training for my second half-marathon.

Care to reveal a hidden talent?

E: You might be surprised to know that I was a karaoke host every Thursday night when I was a teacher in New York City. I wouldn’t say I can sing well but I can perform, and that is the hallmark of a good “KJ” (karaoke jockey).

How do you define success?

E: My essential role as principal is ensuring that our teachers have the support they need so our students’ learning can soar.

Looking ahead, my hope is to create a cohesive experience of continuity and excitement at JCDS, so that students can see from their first day the path all the way through to the 8th Grade Reflections ceremony. I imagine faculty and parents alike sharing pride and ownership over every class that walks across the graduation stage, capping off their journey at JCDS and embarking on future endeavors.

Emily’s door is open, so come say hello!

She is eager to meet you. To reach her, email emilyc@jcdsboston.org or call her at 617-972-1733 ext. 224.

At JCDS, each child is known by the faculty and administration. A culture of caring teachers, parents, and peers supports the high aspirations of our hardworking students. This approach leads to students who grow to be the best version of themselves.

New Faces Meet the new faculty, staff, and trustees joining the JCDS community this year.

Avi Bukiet, 5th grade Toshba/ Jewish Life Team; Dennis Caissie, Facilities Manager; Tehila Cherubino, Kindergarten Teacher; Ben Einsindler, Nahar Advisor, 6th & 8th grade Toshba ROW 1 L E F T TO RI GHT:

Gavi Elkind, Associate Director of Admissions for Community Engagement; Robin Forman, Executive Assistant to the Head of School; Shira Horowitz, 1st grade Teacher/Teacher Leader; Shari Levitz, Assistant Director of Annual Giving ROW 2 L E F T TO RI GHT:

Sarah Kanigsberg, Kindergarten Teacher; Tamar Levy, 5th-8th grade Hebrew; Oded Polat, Nurse; Revital Quintana, Office Manager ROW 3 L E F T TO RI GHT:

Trustees Update Sophie Gildesgame ‘06 joins the Board as the first alumna representative. A graduate of Gann Academy and Brandeis University with a degree in politics, she now works as a Leadership Giving Officer in the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Development Office.

Sharon Levin, mother of JCDS alumna, Talya ’15, and current JCDS students Ari ’18 and Matan ’21, is a practicing psychotherapist with a private practice in Lexington, MA, providing couples therapy and support for challenges surrounding birth and the transition to parenthood.

Shiri Segev heads the finance department at OmniGuide, a medical device company. Shiri served as a diplomat representing the State of Israel in Qatar and in Atlanta, GA. Shiri lives in Newton with her husband and three boys, all former or current JCDS students.

Read more about Shiri and her family in our “Family in Focus” feature on page 19.

Thank you to these Board members who have recently completed their terms.

We acknowledge their years of service and dedication to JCDS. Shoshana Jacobs (2012–2016) Stephanie Listokin (2013–2016) Ellen Rubin (2012–2016)

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TA KING A DEEPER LOOK AT WHO WE A RE: M Y SOUL PROJEC T

Inspired by the book, Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech, in which the teacher gives students an assignment to draw their souls in 15 seconds, the JCDS 6th graders created visual representations accompanied by written descriptions to represent how they see their souls. The students’ responses reveal their creativity, a high-level of self-reflection, a trust in sharing, and so much more. The myriad of “souls” included a big bold question mark, to a wrench symbolizing work, the colors of a rainbow, fire in motion, a book title, “Shhh,” and a free spirit.

ST UD EN T D ESCR I P T I O N S :

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here are a lot of rectangles in different colors and sizes to represent the various sides of me. The largest rectangle represents my family and has the most pink because that is the color that represents relaxation. When I am with my family, I am relaxed and comfortable.

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here is a big pile of feathers, most of which are pink and blue. I’m always energetic and bright like the hot pink feathers. Most of the feathers are pink because during the day, I have lots of energy.

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’m a free spirit. I define free spirits as those who can go where they want, do what they want, whenever they want.

My soul goes where it wants, and it does what it wants.

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here is a heart split into three parts. The heart shows that I’m generous and loving. I help my friends and others in need. I am loving to those who need love.

I

drew a baseball because I really like sports and have been practicing baseball most of my life. Someone is holding a baseball bat in this picture to represent that I do not give up and consider myself to be persistent.

get to know the students and for kids to get to know each other. As part of our preparation for the assign-

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This project turned out to be a great way for me to

ment, we discussed the Jewish definition of a “soul,” based on material students learned in Tanakh.

— Michelle Boyle, 6th grade Humanities Teacher

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Ever think about what your soul might look like on paper?

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F RO M T H E D IR EC TO R OF A DM I SSIO N S

One of the biggest decisions parents make is where to send their children to school. When I meet with prospective parents, I find that the best way to convey the value of a JCDS education is to walk our halls and see our children immersed in joyful learning, alongside adults modeling a commitment to lifelong learning.

The vivid sounds and images may include kindergarteners reading books with their 3rd grade buddies, Middle Schoolers engaged in lively debate, as well as parents studying Torah together or faculty playing instruments. This snapshot of life at JCDS gives authentic access to everything that distinguishes our learning community: academic excellence rooted in character education, a pluralism of engagement, integration of Hebrew and English language learning, and joyful Jewish expressions. I feel proud that we are a school for the whole child and a community for the whole family.

Alongside highly dedicated and effective teachers and staff, parents play critical roles in the life of the school. It starts with a positive learning environment at home. In and out of

school, parents help respectfully navigate the differences in backgrounds, beliefs, lifestyles and practices in our pluralistic community.

Parents contribute to the academic vitality of the school by volunteering for projects and events and bring their professional expertise into our classrooms. Our parent community is a source of learning, growth, friendship, support in difficult times, and joy when we celebrate together.

Know a family interested in learning more about JCDS? The Admissions Office opens its doors for information sessions on these dates:

At JCDS, we are all continuing our journeys as Jews and as lifelong learners, and we strive to ensure that our parents are supported in their own growth as we work together to challenge and nurture their children.

T UES DAY

If that excites you, I look forward to helping you explore how your family can become a part of ours.

L’shalom,

Josh Langer Director of Admissions

JCDS’s course of study is rigorous and intentional,

yet flexible and personalized. Academic excellence is built on strong skills, citizenship, and Jewish literacy set in a nurturing and rigorous atmosphere.

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M O N DAY

November 14, 2016 9:00 to 11:00 am December 13, 2016 9:30 to 11:30 am WED N ES DAY

January 18, 2017 9:00 to 11:00 am For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact Josh at 617-972-1733 ext. 205 or joshl@jcdsboston.org.

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J C DS COU NTS

TOWNS represented

100%

31 hrs

of 1st graders read at or above grade level

8:1

per year that each JCDS student spends integrating coding and engineering into their studies

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sports and afterschool clubs

100%

of students attain intermediate or advanced Hebrew levels by graduation

of families are involved in Vaad Horim, the parent association

O UR CO M M UN ITY Renewal 1% Did Not Identify 12%

ratio for tablet or computer to every student in 2nd–8th grades JCDS provides tuition assistance to

50% of families

student to teacher ratio

90%

1:1

Reconstructionist 2% Post Denominational 3% Secular 3% Traditional Egalitarian 9%

Reform 7%

Orthodox 22% Independent 18%

Tufts University Robotics Program, MIT Libraries, and the Museum of Science

Schools our Alumni attend:

Massachusetts Institute

Barnard College

New York University

Ben Gurion University

Parsons School of Design

Boston University

Princeton University

Brandeis University

Rhode Island School

Columbia University

Conservative 22%

partners with

of Technology

of Design

Cornell University

UMass, Amherst

George Washington

University of Chicago

University

University of Michigan

Harvard University

University of Oxford

Hebrew University

University of

Johns Hopkins

Pennsylvania Yale University NI T ZOT ZOT / FA LL 2016

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Before Yom Kippur, students perform the Tashlich ceremony, where they symbolically cast their sins into the Charles River.

Featured here are students walking arm in arm down to the river. From Left to right: Ithai ‘18, Eve ‘25, Lev ‘18, Leo ‘19, and Akiva ‘18.

S PA R K S FROM T HE

SCHOOL YEAR 1

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1 First Day of School 2nd graders eagerly enter JCDS on their first day of school.

10 Rosh Hashanah Students enjoy apples and honey during the Rosh Hashanah Chagigah.

2 1st Grade Milestone 1st graders present their interpretations of Shacharit (morning prayer service) during their Siddur Ceremony.

11 Gan Nitzan Milestone Kindergarten students demonstrate their learning at the Gan Nitzan milestone.

3 4th Grade Milestone 4th graders share their learning of the Haggadah to a group of parents before Pesach during the 4th Grade Milestone.

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4 6th Grade Milestone 6th graders perform during the 6th Grade Milestone, where they reflect on parts of Judaism and family history that are special to them.

5 8th Grade Builds Sukkah 8th graders build a sukkah for the school to use during Sukkot.

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6 Matters of Taste Dr. Susie Tanchel, Head of School, stands with Matters of Taste 2016 CoHosts, Michelle Barmazel and Kevin Steinberg at the Matters of Taste Reception at JCDS. 7 Chanukah Celebration 8th graders light the chanukiah during the annual Chanukah Celebration.

8 Shavuot Celebration Students make crowns from leaves and flowers at the Shavuot Chagigah.

9 JCDS Blaze Basketball The JCDS Blaze Boys Basketball team became the 2015–2016 Day School Champions.

12 Purim Celebration A 7th grader dresses up in costume at the JCDS Purim Celebration.

13 STEM Day Students get to tinker with old machines in the “Take Apart Room” during STEM Day. 14 Advisory Games Middle School advisories battle to determine the champion advisory during the annual Advisory Games. Featured here is the “Sabra” advisory.

15 Sunrise Shacharit 8th graders enjoy their last Sunrise Shacharit in Arlington as JCDS students.

16 K-2 Engineering As part of a chemical engineering unit, Gan Nitzan, 1st and 2nd graders learned how SubZero Ice Cream Company makes ice cream using dry ice and even got to sample some.

17 Graduation Oren Kaunfer, Madrich Ruchani (Spiritual Educator) and Sabra Advisor speaks about Hallah ‘16 at Graduation.

18 End of Year Celebration The 1st and 2nd grade dance troupe performs at the annual End of Year Celebration.

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Academic Program: Avenues for Growth We are inspired by the students at JCDS to grow, learn, and excel. Renewing our commitment to the JCDS Habits of Heart and Mind, we are enriching our academic program with three new avenues for growth this school year: Technology, B’Yadenu, and Pluralism.

Technology Imagine the possibilities when students and teachers use virtual reality programs to manipulate digital environments for science experiments, tailor math lessons for each learner, and create unique presentations on research topics that jump from the page into colorful and multi-faced displays. The Technology Team, led by Jared Matas, Director of Educational Technology, will develop and train teachers to use technology to enhance learning. Equally aware of the complexities that technology brings into our world, beginning in 1st grade, students learn about derekh eretz or being good citizens when engaging with technology, reaffirming our value of ‫( דרך ארץ קדמה לתורה‬ethical living precedes study).

B’Yadenu — “It’s in Our Hands” The goal of the professional development program, B’Yadenu, meaning “It’s in Our Hands,” is to make the educational process more inclusive, thereby reaching a more diverse group of learners. Led by 5th grade teacher Samara Soiref, and supported by Emily Charton, Principal, and Karen Bernanke, Director of Support Services, the program enters into a new and exciting phase this year as teachers,

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administrators, and school leadership collaborate to better understand students’ individual needs. Specifically, teachers will observe each other in the classroom and share feedback in a positive, supportive format. The outcome is that, together, the teachers develop new strategies to support all students throughout their academic journey. B’Yadenu was developed in collaboration between Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP), Gateways: Access to Jewish Education, Yeshiva University’s Institute for University-School Partnership, and select Boston schools (with funding from the Jim Joseph Foundation and the Ruderman Family Foundation).

Pluralism Pluralism is more than the existence of diversity; it is an active posture that guides us in how we engage with and work to improve the world around us. Allison Cook, Senior Educator of the JCDS Engaging Pluralism Project, collaborates with teachers to incorporate the practice of Pluralism into the academic and spiritual life of the school. The objective is to seek ways to enact the Habits of Heart and Mind and meet at our JCDS “commonplaces” of Judaic experience.

JCDS Habits of Heart and Mind Integrity and ethical living ‫יושרה‬ Multiple perspectives and empathy ‫הסתכלות רחב‬ Perseverance and resiliency ‫התמדה‬ ‫והתמודדות‬ Curiosity ‫סקרנות‬ Desire to solve problems ‫פתרון בעיות‬ Capacity for reflection ‫הערכה עצמית‬ Rigorous appreciation for evidence ‫שימוש בראיות‬

2016 ANNUAL REPORT F ROM THE BOA RD PRES IDENT

Dear Friends:

Reflecting on this past year as President of the JCDS Board of Trustees, I feel such a sense of pride and accomplishment. I have been blessed to be a part of this community since 2002, when my eldest child entered Gan Nitzan (Kindergarten). At that time, JCDS was a young school with a pioneer spirit. Much like on a kibbutz, all members of the community rolled up their sleeves and “went to work” to keep the school going. Fourteen years later, much has changed, and yet the core values we all held dear then remain true. This past fall, my eldest began his freshman year of college while JCDS celebrated its 21st year. Both have matured and evolved over the years, yet have held on to their ideals.

JCDS is a warm, strong, and vibrant com-

munity defined by its ability and desire to work together as a team. Under the gifted leadership of Dr. Susie Tanchel, our already strong academic program has been enriched.

The scope and sequence of our curriculum is optimized, the professional development of our faculty has been enhanced and the JCDS community continues to engage in diverse learning opportunities.

In collaboration with the leadership team and talented faculty, the students at JCDS are simultaneously supported as individuals and as members of a broader community. A hallmark of JCDS is a nurturing, caring, and joyful environment. Our children love going to school, feel emboldened to speak up in class, and learn how to engage with difference. Pluralism is taught, practiced, and lived on a daily basis in school, during play dates and s’machot.

Likewise, Hebrew is not only taught in the classroom, but the students are also steeped

in the language throughout the day. Our children are taught to think deeply so they can figure out the answers to problems that are novel to them. It is this kind of progressive teaching that results in our children scoring incredibly well on standardized tests like the ERBs, despite the fact that at JCDS the teachers don’t teach to the test.

Looking ahead, we want to build on our academic, financial, and enrollment achievements. We constantly endeavor to make our school affordable for all families who seek a JCDS education for their children. Our goal is to continue to be a beacon in the Jewish day school community in terms of a progressive education, pluralism, Hebrew immersion, and joyful learning.

I look forward to continuing to serve as president and to working closely with our dedicated and passionate trustees and Head of School. Each day I am inspired by the professionalism, commitment and enthusiasm of the faculty and staff. I am also appreciative of all our families, each of whom has chosen to learn within a pluralistic community. Thank you parents, grandparents, alumni, alumni parents, alumni grandparents and friends near and far who contribute so generously to JCDS. The spirit of “rolling up our sleeves” thrives today. Together we will continue to advance our beloved school.

Kol tuv,

Sari Korman President, JCDS Board of Trustees

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ADVAN CI N G OUR MI S S I ON

F RO M T H E D IR EC TO R O F DE VE LOP M E N T

Dear Friends: I am pleased to share the 2016 Annual Report in these pages. JCDS is fortunate to be strengthened by supporters with real passion for the school’s mission. All gifts and volunteer hours impact the school in powerful ways. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity.

In this spirit, I invite you to save the date, Sunday, March 19, 2017 for Matters of Taste. For the first time, the entire event will be held at JCDS, with the emphasis on our community coming together. Socialize with JCDS friends, win prizes at the silent auction, sample an exciting array of food and drink, spend time with a top-notch Special Guest of your choice, engage in lively and intelligent conversation, and end the evening on a “sweet note” with a dessert after-party. Contact the Development Office for more information and updates on the Special Guest line-up.

JCDS occupies a very special place in the landscape of Jewish education and in the heart of my family. As I settle into my first year in my position, I’m thrilled to have become a JCDS parent. My husband, Steven Feinstein, and I feel honored to participate in the life of the school. We can’t wait to see how Lizzy ‘22 and Jamie ‘25 progress.

Thank you for your investment in the school’s unique approach and your belief in JCDS graduates’ power to change the world.

Warm regards,

Jennifer London Director of Development and Communications

P O K E R A N D PICTIO NARY: 2 01 7 PA R E N T C AMPAIGN KIC K OF F Parents are an integral part of the JCDS Annual Fund. Now they have an event to call their own. Since parents need play time too, JCDS added a new event to the school calendar—a Saturday night social with optional poker and parlor games, on November 12, generously hosted by Jaka and Gad Saarony (parents of Shai ‘20, Sadie ‘22 and Max ‘25) at their home in Newton.

“The parent campaign kickoff party will aim to bring the parent body together for a fun night in support of JCDS where we can enjoy one another’s company in a festive but lowkey atmosphere,” said Liz Waksman (Trustee, Development Co-Chair, parent of Leo ‘19).

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Matters of Taste is a much loved event for the broader school community,” said Rachel Fish (Parent Campaign Co-Chair, parent of Ezra ‘23 and Asher ‘24). “We are building on that enthusiasm with something specifically designed for parents.”

Under consideration for the Parent Campaign is a new Family Fun Run. Dafna Hayman (Parent Campaign Co-Chair, parent of LeAnne ‘20, Danielle ‘22 and Ilai ‘25) said, “It would be great to get families outside and moving around in support of JCDS. Our goal is to inspire generous giving to the school and 100% participation. We can reach the goal with fun ways for every family to get involved.”

Parent Campaign Co-Chairs, Dafna Hayman (left) and Rachel Fish (right).

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

FA MILY I N F OCUS

important part of who we are, how we think, and how we behave. It was important for our kids to learn the language at a high level and become proficient not only in Hebrew language, but in Israeli culture.”

Meet the Segevs

From left to right: Itai, Ilan, Shiri, Yoav, and Yuval Segev.

We have a vested interest in JCDS. It is our hope that the school will be around for our grandkids.

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Catching Shiri and Ilan Segev on the first day of school, you would never know by the ebullient look on their faces that this marks their fourteenth year at JCDS. Eldest son, Yoav ‘11, returns to the University of Oxford in England, and Itai a former JCDS student, is a junior in high school at the Landmark School.

Youngest son Yuval is currently a JCDS 3rd grader.

When talking about their reasons for choosing JCDS, Ilan enumerated without hesitation: “First, it was very important to us to have a Jewish education that is pluralistic in nature.

At JCDS, pluralism is both celebrated and practiced. Second, we wanted a nurturing environment that allows children to develop and become independent thinkers, rather than rote learners. Third, we heard wonderful things about the teaching staff and the level of education.”

Another determining factor for Shiri and Ilan, who are both originally from Israel and currently make their home in Newton, is maintaining a vibrant connection to Israeli culture, heritage, and Hebrew language. Ilan, an Executive Director at Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management, was formerly the Deputy Consul General of Israel in Atlanta, Georgia, and opened the first Israeli diplomatic office in the Persian Gulf. Here in Boston, Ilan is the Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Israeli American Council (IAC). “Hebrew is an

Shiri appreciates that the school offers more than one type of Jewish experience. “One of the cornerstones of the JCDS experience is the pluralistic approach to Judaism that respects and supports the individual’s way of practicing.”

Shiri and Ilan both speak with passion about what may be the most valuable aspect of the JCDS experience. “A focus on being a good person is woven into the curriculum,” said Shiri. Ilan added, “JCDS creates good students for life. The kids are curious about the world, learning, studying, and not just about acquiring knowledge.”

This year, Shiri, who is quite busy in her professional life as a Senior Director of Finance at OmniGuide Surgical and active in the local Israeli and Jewish communities, was motivated to increase her commitment to the school by becoming a Trustee. Ilan served on the Board from 2006–2012. “We see the dedication and leadership at JCDS, and we want to help.

We believe in Jewish education and we have a vested interest, not only in our children’s education, but our hope that the school will be around for our grandkids.”

When it comes down to it, how do the Segevs know that JCDS is the right fit for their family? Ilan said, “Our older boys have fond memories of JCDS, are still close to their classmates and love to come back and visit with teachers and staff. JCDS was more than an academic environment for them, and is currently for Yuval a happy place for learning and growing.” Shiri remarked, “JCDS made mensches of our boys and their peers.”

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During this past year, JCDS’s finances remained strong. We had a balanced budget and surpassed our original fundraising goal. Gan Nitzan enrollment exceeded that of the previous year, and JCDS graduated the largest class in its history.

Thanks to the generosity of George Krupp’s Endowment Challenge and the many donors who made matching gifts, we have reached the milestone of one million dollars in gifts and pledges to our endowment.

Revenue Grants 2.34%

Contributions 26.85%

Net Tuition 66.82% Other Income 3.98%

Expenses Debt Service 6.80% Facilities 10.83% Supplies & Services 6.50%

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Salaries & Benefits 73.72%

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

ADVAN CI N G OUR MI S S I ON

F I NA NCIA L HIGHLIGHTS

R E P O RT OF GIFTS — T HAN K YOU FO R YO U R SUPPO RT Donations to the JCDS Annual Fund underwrite academic programs, professional development for faculty and staff, and the flexible tuition fund that allows us to welcome a diverse range of families to our community. $50,000 AND ABOVE

Anonymous Joanne and Paul Egerman Joseph and Rae Gann Charitable Foundation Sari Korman and John Hunt Bonnie and Marty Tenenbaum $1 8 ,000—$ 49,999

Anonymous (3) Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) Claudia Davidoff Claudia Davidoff and Joseph Kahan Rita and Herbert Gann Lizbeth and George Krupp Legacy Heritage Fund Rosalyn and Richard Slifka $1 0,000—$ 17,999

Anonymous (2) Michelle Barmazel and Kevin Steinberg Katya Brezgunova and Igor Gomberg Betsy Hecker and John Barter Joan and Peter Hoffman Shiri and Ilan Segev $5,000—$ 9,999

Nicole Lieberman Gann and Joshua Gann Gelfand Science Grant Shoshana Jacobs and David Charytan Gilda Slifka Elizabeth Waksman and Darren Orbach $2 ,5 00—$ 4,999

Pamela and Robert Cutler Fran Elovitz The Melvin and Beatrice

Fraiman Charitable Foundation Lillian Freedman The Joseph and Anna Gartner Foundation Google Matching Gifts Program Stephanie Karger Sarah Luria and Tom Schwarz Peggy and Marvin Menzin Carla Naumburg and Joshua Herzig-Marx Judy and Albert Zabin

Barbara and Leo Karas Nicole Lamberg and Adam Shyevitch Devra and Donald Lasden Stephanie and Yair Listokin Sarah Markovitz and Jacob Pinnolis Lisa and Mark Moellman Adele and Andrew Newman Suzanne Priebatsch Susie and Howie Rodenstein Robyn and Bruce Shoulson Sunshine Family Fund Helen Tager-Flusberg and $1 ,0 0 0 —$2 ,499 Martin Flusberg Anonymous Tamar and Philip Warburg Susan and Aron Ain Ruth Weinrib and Paul Weiss Jessica and David Aronoff $500—$999 Jill and Marc Baker Shelley Baker Jenna Andelman and Emily Beck and Jon Levisohn Gavin Steyn Alisa Berger and Luz Arevalo and Ed Zabin Samuel Moyn Ifat and Yaniv Bejerano Edward J. Black Dina and Paul Berger School to School, Boston Mozelle and Joel Berkowitz Haifa Connection Claire and Daniel Caine Sara Riedner Brown and Hanania Cohen Stephen Brown Ada Beth and Chuck Cutler Margaret and Chaim Yael and Eyal Dvir Charytan Dena and Gary Elovitz Eran and Yukiko Egozy Talia and Yoni Engelhart Fiona Epstein and Janet Zerlin Fagan and Jon Pollack Mark Fagan Debra and Robert Finkel Sandy Falk and Rabbi Dan Tamar and Kenneth Frieze Judson Nancy Ganz Rena Gray Fein and Peni A. Garber Robert Fein Dena and Jason Glasgow Noah Feldman Amy and Steven Gortler Nancy and Peter Finn Beth and Lawrence Jane and Edward Foster Greenberg Nanette and Jose Fridman Maria and Alexander Zelda and Elkan Gamzu Gurevich Debra Gelber and Rabbi Susan Harris Avrom Pfeffer Dafna and Nathan Hayman Catharyn and Mike Jen Kaplan and Susie Tanchel Gildesgame

Allegra Goodman and David Karger Patty and Louis Grossman Belle Halpern and Mitch Rosenberg Galit and Michael Heimlich Judy and Chayim Herzig- Marx Deborah Horwitz and Steven Shoyer Claudia J. Jacobs Ellen and Robert Kaplan Daniel P. Katz Amelia and Joshua Katzen Esther and Josh Langer Robin Neiterman and Adam T. Puritz Miriam Newman Tamar and Michael Propp Shulamit and Jehuda Reinharz Ellen and Michael Rubin Shirah Rubin and Bret Ancowitz Sheila and Dimitar Sasselov Norma and Mel Shakun Paula and John Sinclair Margery Sokoloff and Jeffrey Shoulson Shelley and Steven Weinstock Lisa Resnek Wyett and Christopher Wyett Tomer Yosef-Or Debbie Zilberman and James Rosenfield $ 25 0 — $ 49 9

James C. Beck Teri Berenson Joyce and Michael Bohnen Janine and Douglas Cohen Kathleen and Scott Cohen Lisa and Arieh Coll Rachel Fish and Dave Cutler Shira Deener and David

Chodirker Elisa Deener-Agus and Michael Agus Harriet Feinberg Donna and Jonathan Frankel Sari and Walter Gazda Yael Getz-Schoen and Gad A. Getz Sophie Gildesgame Charles Glick Beth and Julian Gott Haller Locker Foundation Susan Hirsh Danielle Igra and Eric Bergman Rhoda and Rabbi Sylvan Kamens Maribeth and Ted Kaptchuk Marcia and Rabbi Alvan Kaunfer Rabbi Ira Korinow Sharon and Igo Krebs Rabbi Claudia Kreiman Arleen Kulin Donna and Thomas LaGanga Megan and Eli Lederman Sharon Levin and Rabbi David Lerner Milk Street Cafe Lynnie and David Mirvis Elizabeth and Robert Pressman Susan Rodgin and Warren Manning Charlotte Ross and Matthew Katz Andrea and Charlie Schwartz Schwartz-Gutman Family Fund

Lori and Matthew Sidman Deborah Taubman Miriam and Ehud Telem Leigh Weiss Stanley Wolf Dorit and Ofer Zmiri

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W E HAVE TR IE D TO BE A S ACC UR AT E AS P OSSI BL E IN OUR LISTIN GS. W E A POLOGIZE FOR ANY ERROR S OR OM ISSION S THAT M AY AP P EAR. P L EASE CON TAC T THE DE VE LOPM E N T OFFI CE AT 617-97 217 33 W ITH A N Y R EQUE STS FOR FUT URE L I ST I NGS.

U P TO $ 249

Anonymous (3) Mara Acel-Green and Stephane Acel-Green Robin and Matthew Adwin Alicia Albert Charlotte and Gerald Albert Barbara Bach Monica and Bernard Baker Joanne Baker Julia Khodor Beloborodov and Mark Beloborodov Melissa P. Berman Randi Berkowitz and Jonathan Regosin Phyllis Berman and Arthur Waskow Marina Umaschi Bers Tamar Biala and Yehudah Mirsky Caron B. Bleich Gordon M. Bloom Jerome Bloom Linda and Bruno Borenstein Michelle and Michael Boyle Thea Breite and Susan Moser Arleen Chase Susann Codish James Cohen Regina and Fred Coltin Con Edison Nancy and James Corbett Yoninah and Michael Cramer Sara and Andrew Dauber Carole and David Decter Brenda and Jerry Deener Sara and Robert Dickman Jennifer Dupee and Joshua Bers Judy and Rabbi Joshua Elkin Claire and Stan Elson Lynda Fink and Maury Lederman William E. Forman Lenie and Richard Fraiman Celia and Steve Gamm

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Gann Academy Revital Ganzi Lori and Michael Gilman Rabbi Carol Glass and Rabbi Michael Swarttz Carolyn and Stephen Goodman Jen and Seth Gordon Daniel Green Laura Green and David Golan Terri and Rich Grogan Robin S. Gross Ruth and Richard Grossman Gloria and Joe Gurt Terri and Evan Haller Danya Handelsman and Jed Shugerman Kimberly and Elias Herb Joelle Hochman and Chris Austill Zona and Martin Hoffman Yonina Hoffman-Wanderer and Jeremy Wanderer Shira Horowitz and Maurice Karpman Sue and Robert Housman Talya Housman Linda Hsu and Marc Steinberg Jacqueline and Rob Hughes Sherry Israel Tzedaka Fund Michelle and Robert Janoschek Jewish Women’s Archive Eileen and Morton Kahan Tamar H. Kallman Kamens Family Charitable Gift Fund Barbara and Dan Kaplan Frances and Robert Kaplan Jonathan Karas Sandra Kassin-Deardorff Linda and Peter Katz Jennifer and Ari Kaufmann KEMA, Inc.

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Orit Kent and Meir Lakein Robyn Kimmelman Andrea and Aviel Klausner Idit Klein and Jordan Namerow Shira Novak and Raanan Korinow Alisa and Laurence Kotler- Berkowitz Aura and Steve Kraft Elizabeth and Daniel Kraft Jonathan Krasner and Frank Tipton Ellen and Michael Krause- Grosman Rabbi Claudia Kreiman and Ebn Leader Rachel Kruskal Annette and Richard Lakein Jeffrey Langer Lisa and Rabbi Daniel Lehmann Maya Lentz Marsha and Michael Levin Benyamin Lichtenstein Naomi Gurt Lind and William Lind Karen and Joseph Linitz Shira and Rudie Lion Ayelet Lipton Jennifer London and Steven Feinstein Carlos Luria Miriam and Rajiv Manglani Ziva Mann and Ezra Robison Laura and Mike Mandel Susan and Bob Martuza Ilana and Natan Margalit Yavilah and Roderick McCoy Harriet and Fred Merkowitz Judy and Harold Meyer Sarah Meyers and Rabbi Daniel Berman Karen and Kenneth Munkacy Arielle Nagle Jennifer and Joel Newman

Nancy Nozick-Grodin and Michael Grodin Rabbi Suzanne Offit Rabbi Sara and Michael Paasche-Orlow Emily and Jay Perlman Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program Beth Polasky and Samuel Furgang Michele and Meyer Potashman Cynthia Reich and Harold Kravitz Judith S. Robbins Frieda Robins Hila Romi and Akiva Leibowitz Irene and Howard Rosenberg Judith Rosenbaum and Rabbi Or Rose Clare Rosenfield Kim Rosenfield Aviva and Jeremy Rothman-Shore Faye and Charles Ruopp Meira Salzberg and Benjamin Houben Susan and Robert Scherr Sharon and Jerald Schindler Steven Seeche Ethel and Lester Segal Michael Segal Laura and Joel Segel Adam Shain Laura Shakun Laura and Guy Shechter Susan Shevitz and Larry Bailis Lihi and Eitai Shoshani Cynthia Shulak-Rome and Dan Rome Elaine and Joseph Siegel Aviva Silverman Bryna and David Silbert Henry Silverman Daniela and Seth Silverstein

Lisa Wasserman Sivan and Ezra Zuckerman Sivan Lara Michal Skarf and Joshua Meyer Rhea S. Skoler Lynne and Gary Smith Nancy Rigelhaupt Smith and Howard Smith Kitty Stein and John Langell Gal and Orit Steinberg Diana and Igor Stelin Terri Swartz-Russell and David Russell Ilana Szobel and Leopold Grinberg Alissa and David Talamo Sandy and David Tall Carole A. Taut Jesse and Larry Tobin Tzedakah Fund Vehicle Donation Processing Center Rosalen Vineberg Ana Gordon Volpi and Matthew Volpi Aliza and Louis VosLevitz Susan Weiner and Jason Mazur Cheryl Weiner and Jared Matas Rebecca Weinstein Jennifer and Amiel Weinstock Weinstock-Kempler Fund Melinda and Fred Whittum Deborah Wieder and Philip Schuchert Morissa and Jason Wiser Deborah Zaitchik and Jerry Samet Bracha L. Zeitler

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

ADVAN CI N G OUR MI S S I ON

R E P ORT O F GIFTS con tin u e d

SAVE T H ESE DATES!

STEM Day

Generations Day

December 9, 2016

May 5, 2017

Chanukah Celebration

End of Year Celebration

December 22, 2016

June 8, 2017 Graduation June 13, 2017

PLEASE JOIN US

Matters of Taste The 18th Annual Benefit for JCDS SUNDAY, MAR C H 1 9, 2 01 7 5 O’CLOC K I N T H E EV EN I N G Matters of Taste, JCDS’s signature annual celebration, raises funds to continually enhance the outstanding academic program, maximize support to current families, and sustain the school’s excellence.

NEW F O RMAT TO C E L E BRATE THE EVENT ’S 1 8 T H (CH AI) YE AR!

N IT ZOT ZOT MAG A ZI NE C REDITS

Editorial Mara Littman Interim Communications Miriam Seidman Communications Manager

Jennifer London Director of Development and Communications

Printing Signal Graphics Design Rick Rawlins / Work Miriam Seidman

Photography Gary Alpert Eric Antoniou Bret Bahe David Fox Miriam Seidman

5 7 STA NL EY AVENUE, WATERTOWN, MA 02472 617-972-1 733 W W W.JCDSBOSTON.ORG

N O N P R OFI T ORG U. S. P OSTAG E PA I D B OSTO N MA P E R M I T N O. 5 5 0 5 8

SPA R KS MAG A Z IN E / FA L L

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