Seriously VBSDS ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020
Table of Contents
19.
Seriously Rooted
04.
Message from the Board President
21.
Seriously Empowered
05.
Board of Trustees
23.
Seriously Innovative
07.
Welcome New Trustees
27.
Seriously Connected
09.
Financials
29.
Seriously Proud
11.
Seriously Generous
35.
Honor Roll
15.
Seriously Engaged
43.
Ways to Give
01.
Message from the Head of School
Message from the Head of School Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei
Dear VBSDS Community,
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ast year we committed to learning how to “be your best self.” Perhaps more than any other year, amid times that tested us all, our entire community, adults and students, really needed to consider how to be their best selves. This was not an easy task, but one that you all approached with patience, kindness and grace. I have truly seen all members of our community be their BEST SELVES and support one another! Not only did we pivot and adapt to a new academic environment at the drop of a hat, we flourished! I couldn’t be more proud of our community. While the landscape and format of our school year looked different than in years past, our school remained committed to ensuring
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an enriching educational experience for all students. Together, we connected, explored, grew and learned how to be our best selves and lead by example. As a community, I know that we will make the 2020/21 year seriously meaningful. We are all in this together. Warmly,
Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei
Message from the Board President Roslyn Grinberg ‘86
Dear VBSDS Community,
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eflecting on the 2019/20 school year, I would be remiss not to acknowledge the pandemic. However, for a moment, I would like to shed light on the successful trajectory of our school prior to COVID-19. As the school year began, our board focused on elevating its function through board education and committee re-organization. With a strong commitment to supporting our Head of School and ensuring the longevity of our institution, we also recognized the need to build stronger bridges with the synagogue. I believe that our enhanced relationship with our partners at VBS has made us stronger together. I am proud of the work we continue to do, united as one community. Heading into the pandemic, our school was in a position of increased strength financially, as a result of years of sound economic planning. Under Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei’s strong leadership, we were successful in pivoting to a remote learning platform due to COVID-19, which made us stand out from other LA independent schools. Throughout the pandemic, the dedication
of our trustees endured and I am grateful for their support and unending commitment to the mission of our school. I would like to recognize the amazing faculty that show up every day, whether in person or remotely, to connect with our students. Our teachers help create A+ citizens by nourishing students’ minds and souls. I am thankful for each and every one of you. While the light at the end of this tunnel may seem dim, I do see it. I am optimistic that as we entered this pandemic in strength, we will come out of it even stronger. Wishing you and your families good health and a renewed sense of hope. Sincerely,
Roslyn Grinberg
04.
Board of Trustees David Binder (P ’15, ’17, ’22) Legal Vice-President
Ailee Dembo (P ’19, ’22) Education Vice-President
05.
Gil Borok (P ’15, ’18) Financial Vice-President
Shoshana Kapnek (P ’21, ’23) Secretary
Tamar Dolgen (P ’17, ’21, ’23) Administrative Vice-President
Orit Rappaport ’84 (P ’14, ’19, ’22, ’23) Parent Org. Co-President
Roslyn Grinberg ‘86 (P ’16, ’19, ’22) President
Rebecca Steinberg (P ’21, ’23) Advancement Vice-President
Tammy Temkin (P ’15, ’17, ’19, ’21) Parent Org. Co-President
Tahli Abramovitch
Matthew Benbassat
(P ’16, ’18, ’20) Trustee
(P ’20, ’24) Trustee
Shelley Margulies ’82
Daryoush Rad (P ’17, ’19, ’21) Trustee
(P ’17, ’19) Trustee
Ilene Berman (P ’01, ’04) Trustee
David Rice (P ’21) Trustee
Emily Feit (P ’24, P’24) Trustee
Karen Rubinstein (P ’21) Trustee
NOT PICTURED Scott Lieberman (P ’13, ‘16, ‘19) Trustee
Amanda Waterman
Jeff Wernecke (P ’23, ’26) Trustee
(P ’21, ’24) Trustee
Ruth Zadikany (P ’24) Trustee
THANK YOU TO OUR OUTGOING TRUSTEES FOR YOUR SERVICE Ilene Berman
Gil Borok
Orit Rappaport
David Spiegel
David Binder
Scott Lieberman
David Rice
Tammy Temkin
David Spiegel (GP ’24) Trustee
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New Trustees Mory Barak (P’21, ’24, ’25) Mory Barak is co-founder and managing principal of Lion Real Estate Group, LLC, a real estate holding and management firm. Prior to founding Lion Real Estate Group, Mory worked in the principal investments group at Buchanan Street Partners and at Lazard Freres in New York. Mory attended Jewish day schools including Kadima Day School and Heschel Day School, and graduated from Oakwood School, giving him a unique independent school perspective. Mory is a graduate of the Stern School of Business at New York University. Mory is married to Tal Barak and they have three children, Liana ‘21, Guy ‘24, and Ella ‘25.
Brynie Collins (P’21, ’23) Brynie Collins is a board certified Pediatric Gastroenterologist, widely recognized for her expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of infant and childhood gastrointestinal disorders. Prior to opening her own practice in 2011 in Encino, Brynie completed her Pediatric Residency at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital and then did subspecialty training in Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Brynie remains a faculty member at CHLA and is an adjunct Associate Professor of Pediatrics at USC Keck School of Medicine. Brynie was a member of VBS Synagogue as a child, and attended Jewish day school and Harvard-Westlake High School. She graduated from University of California at Berkeley and received her Doctorate in Medicine at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York.
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Brynie is married to Tennyson Collins and they have two children, Dean ‘21 and Brooke ‘23. She and Tennyson served as the 2019/20 VBSDS Annual Fund Chairs.
Shahab Kohen (P’24, ’26) Shahab Kohen is a real estate developer who builds apartments and high end homes. He is the President of Paramount Exclusive Insurance, a full service insurance agency specializing mostly in commercial insurance policies. Shahab is married to Natalie Kohen and they have three children, Ariella ‘24, Jayden, ‘26 and Leo (future Lion).
Sheryl Schreiber (P’11, ’13) Sheryl R. Schreiber is the founder of SRS Advisors, which focuses on college advising as well as marketing and admission planning for independent schools. Prior to founding SRS Advisors, Sheryl was the Executive Director of Institutional Services at Milken Community Schools, where she oversaw various departments including admission, marketing, communication, registrar, and college counseling. She also served for 15 years in leadership roles in admissions, career resources, and executive education at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business. Prior to her more than 20 years of experience in academia, Sheryl worked in the entertainment industry at The Walt Disney Company and Fox Television. Sheryl holds an MBA from the Marshall School of Business as well as a BA from the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, both at the University of Southern California. A graduate of Jewish day school, Sheryl is married to Jonathan, a former VBSDS Board Member. Sheryl and Jonathan have been VBS members for over 25 years and raised two VBSDS alumni, Liat ‘11 and Adam ‘13.
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Financials
09.
78%
10%
08%
Tuition
Fees
Annual Giving
02%
01%
01%
Parent Org. Fundraising
Grants, Awards & Donations
Investment Interest
84%
05%
04%
Employee Salaries
Instruction & Program
Operations
01%
03%
03%
Advancement
Technology
Occupancy & Building
Seriously Generous T
he Annual Fund makes up a large portion of VBSDS’ annual operating budget. This means that there is virtually no aspect of student learning and services that go unsupported by our generous Annual Fund donors. Every gift, no matter the size, helps to ensure the legacy and impact of VBS Day School for years to come.
invest in the future of our school. The Collins family truly appreciates that in addition to the academic rigor of VBSDS, each student is rooted in strong Jewish values, a sense of social responsibility and a desire to make the world a better place. Inspired by our 2019/20 school theme, the Collins Family has seen their children learn to “be their best selves.”
Brynie and Tennyson Collins, parents of Dean ‘21 and Brooke ‘23, served as our 2019/20 Annual Fund Chairs. The Collins family was eager to share their story and love of VBSDS with the community. They generously matched up to $10,000 from parents and community members, hoping to encourage others to participate and
It fills us with pride when we see Brooke and Dean’s desire to help their friends and to be inclusive. To give money, food and clothes to those less fortunate than us and to recycle and reuse as they consider future generations. We see them developing into kind, respectful, thoughtful and generous people and we know that this is in large part due to the nurturing they get here at VBSDS.
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- Brynie and Tennyson Collins
Each year, VBSDS relies on families, faculty and staff, the board, alumni, and the greater VBS community to enhance and enrich our mission. Whether the support is financial, a gift of time, and/or a gift of talent, one thing remains steadfast - VBSDS couldn’t fulfill its mission without the support of our community!
VBSDS continues to thrive, in large part due to the partnership, generosity and leadership of our incredible donors, volunteers and board members like the Collins family. This year, as a way to thank our Annual Fund donors who gave at the Blue and White leadership level, we provided an exclusive, hands-on painting experience with our amazing faculty! Our talented and beloved second grade team, Einav Telem P’20, P’22, Sharon Rief P’20, P’24, and Karen Vear, led a Master’s of Art Workshop for Blue and White donors. These top level donors also enjoyed connecting with fellow parents over cocktails and dinner at the home of Roslyn ‘86 and David Grinberg P’16, P’19, P’22. Thank you again to our 2019/20 Annual Fund supporters!
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Special thanks to our dedicated Development Committee members who worked hard throughout the year to engage participation in the Annual Fund:
Tamar Dolgen, Chair Kareen Akry Brynie Collins Amy Green Shahab Kohen Shelley Margulies Oren Rappaport Sari Rappaport Karen Rubinstein Rebecca Steinberg Navid Souferi Matt Waterman
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Generations’ Circle T
hrough the Generations’ Circle giving program, grandparents play a significant
role in the growth and success of our VBSDS community. This leadership giving program engages our grandparents and creates new ways for them to be involved and invested in their grandchild(ren)’s Jewish education. This year, Generations’ Circle was chaired by Toby and Aaron Feit, who have three grandchildren at the school, Kara ‘24, Zachary ‘24, and Levi ‘28.
“The synagogue and Day School mean a great deal to our family. They are part of the fabric of our lives.
While we did celebrate our annual Generations’ Day in December, sadly, we were unable to bring our Generations’ Circle members together on campus for a formal spring thank you event. We look forward to welcoming our Generations’ Circle members back to campus when it is safe to do so. We remain so grateful for the support of our grandparents, with special thanks to our chairs. Stay tuned for information on reimagined Generations’ Day 2020!
We are honored to keep our legacy alive and contribute to VBSDS’ innovative and inspiring programs and our Jewish future. Our grandchildren are fifth generation VBS members. It was an honor to be your 2019/20 Generations’ Circle Chairs.” -Toby & Aaron Feit
14.
Seriously Engaged T
he VBSDS community extends far beyond the classroom. When the campus closed due to COVID-19, our community based Lions’ pride was more important than ever. Our already tight knit community was only elevated and strengthened. A significant foundation of the strong bond across our community is created through the hard work and creativity of the Parent Organization. Led by a group of dedicated volunteers, VBSDS’ Parent Org. hosted several events this year, including the famous Annual Bingo Afternoon, Comedy Night, Shabbat Across the Day School and Virtual Comedy Night. When we were “safer at home” during the last few months of the school year, our Parent Org. reached out to each and
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every VBSDS family to check-in, offer support and maintain important connections during a difficult time. Our devoted parent volunteers also boosted morale through a brand new spiritwear line, featuring “Good Vibes” shirts, sweatshirts and swag, which families are encouraged to wear with pride every Monday.
The Parent Organization traditionally hosts VIVA VBS, an annual gala celebration. Though the event was canceled due to the pandemic, we are so grateful to the entire VIVA committee for working tirelessly on event logistics, including an incredible auction. VIVA VBS 2020 honorees Tahli & Danny Abramovitch and Aileen & Gil Borok have gone above and beyond to support the school in numerous ways for many years, including a recent pledge to our classroom renovation project. We are extremely fortunate to have them as part of our community and to celebrate their generosity. 2020 VIVA Event Chairs Mory Barak Alan Feit Shahab and Natalie Kohen Zion Perets Auction Chairs Emily Feit and Heela Hadad Party Book Chairs Shoshana Kapnek and Amanda Waterman Teacher Generosity Chairs Robin Melameth and Amy Rice Parent Org Co-Presidents Tammy Temkin and Orit Rappaport Event Coordinator Shelley Margulies
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Tahli and Danny Abramovitch 2020 VIVA VBS Honorees
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ahli and Danny Abramovitch have been devoted members of the VBSDS community as parents of Noa ’16, Jacob ’18, and Mia ’20. Danny’s connection to the Day School runs deep, having attended VBS Day School himself. Danny is a member of the VBS Board of Directors and spearheaded the first “Shulperbowl” event. Together, they opened their home for countless Day School events, promoting and expanding our community. The couple was also part of the 2019/20 VBS Emerging Leaders Cohort. Tahli served as a member of the Day School Board of Trustees for more than five years. As chair of the Marketing Committee, her support of admissions has been invaluable. Tahli received the Rita Reznikoff Leadership award in 2018 for her personal commitment to the Day School. In addition, Tahli was instrumental in spearheading the playground renovation
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campaign, as well as many other campus upgrades. Tahli co-chaired the Generations’ Day costume coordination for many years and also served the Parent Organization as either head room parent or room parent each school year. During Rabbi Schuldenfrei’s first year as Head of School, Tahli was an essential leader in the transition and served as part of the Head of School Support and Evaluation Committee.
Aileen and Gil Borok 2020 VIVA VBS Honorees
Aileen and Gil Borok have been dedicated leaders of the VBS community for more than 15 years. Following a foundational educational experience at VBSDS, their children, Jack ‘15 and Estee ‘18, now attend Oakwood School. Gil has served on the Day School Board of Trustees with great devotion for ten years, including seven years as Vice-President of Finance. Gil has also served on the Head of School Support and Evaluation Committee and the Joint Task Force between the Synagogue and Day School boards. In 2017, Gil was the recipient of the Day School’s prestigious Rita Reznikoff Leadership Award for his dedication to the Day School. Aileen has also been a vital leader in the Day School. She co-chaired the Generations’ Day Committee for eight years and Picture Day for six. She also co-chaired the Sixth Grade Graduation Committee and was a member
of the Board Nominating Search Committee. Aileen served as room parent eight out of the ten years that her children were at the School. Even though their children are no longer at VBSDS, the Boroks remain deeply committed to continuity.
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Seriously Rooted V
BSDS roots down in its tradition while rising up to new interpretations and applications of Judaism in our lives. Through a grant with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality (IJS), our instructors and administrators were introduced to practices of prayer, mindfulness and meditation, all of which give a Jewish vocabulary to the social emotional backbone of our school. Working with IJS is a true integration of our work to support the best academic experience for our students and our fundamentally Jewish love of learning and caring for the wellbeing of others. Teachers, through their own professional learning and practice, model for their students how to regulate and label their feelings and how to express them in a Jewish way, be it through text, meaningful moments or thoughtful
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reflections. The goal of this partnership is to help students and teachers access wisdom and resilience and to deepen their connections to Judaism and to each other, thus finding greater meaning in life. IJS, a national, non-denominational organization, teaches Jewish spiritual practices grounded in mindfulness to those seeking a deep, rich and truly meaningful life experience. This is done through reclaiming texts and practices from contemplative Jewish traditions including mindfulness meditation, yoga, singing, prayer and working with middot, best aligning our behaviors with our innermost values, and all taught with a Jewish lens. We are so proud of our partnership with IJS and look forward to another year of meaningful, spiritual connection to our Jewish roots. It is programs like these that truly elevate our school and set VBSDS apart!
Seriously Empowered A
t VBSDS, our students are taught that they can make a difference. This VBSDS commitment to service and action is in memory and in honor of our namesake, Harold M. Schulweis z’l. Rabbi Schulweis always emphasized that children can take meaningful action in the world TODAY! Our students are leaders in the classroom, on the sports fields and in the larger community. Through our buddy programs, students build relationships across different grades and across our VBS Schools, because we partner with the VBS Early Childhood Center. The oldest students sharpen their leadership skills, feel pride in their mentor roles, and share their love of learning. They learn to lead by example and to be their best selves!
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The younger children gain confidence, connection, and begin to build community. These partnerships are incredibly impactful in the lives of our students. Our robust athletic program prides itself on empowering our mighty Lions with the skills they need to develop athletic abilities and principles of sportsmanship, guided by Jewish values of teamwork, fairness, empathy and respect. The VBS Day School leadership curriculum culminates with a unique 6th grade leadership year. Our 6th graders assume leadership roles throughout the school year including serving on Student Council, as admission ambassadors and leading weekly, school-wide Kabbalat Shabbat services.
The 6th grade travel experiences, which include the Grinberg Passport to Israel and Adventure California, are times of reflection and growth. VBS Day School students learn about the power of leadership through their studies of our rich Jewish history and traditions. Thoughtful curriculum equips students with the wisdom and inspiration to become empathetic, capable, and principled leaders within our school community and in the broader world.
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Seriously Innovative
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n March, while our school campus closed, our Virtual VBSDS doors remained wide open. The adaptability and innovation shown by our faculty and staff, students, and families shined, as the school immediately pivoted to a distance learning model that was engaging, interactive and strategic. Within just one day, students were immersed in an enriching program of both live and asynchronous learning opportunities. Their excitement to learn remained steadfast, as they found new ways to connect with friends, classmates and teachers. Teachers continued to focus on social emotional wellbeing each morning with a check-in, ensuring space to express feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, worry and even joy! Students also learned to focus on their own growth mindsets.
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Even though certain milestones couldn’t be celebrated in person, our community was able to gather virtually and uphold the meaningful moments of several events, including the 4th grade California play, the Shane Gold 1st Grade Siddur Ceremony, the 2nd grade Torah Ceremony, Student Council elections and 6th grade Havdalah. The Virtual VBSDS experience proved to all that learning, traditions, and the importance of community extend far beyond the walls of the classroom.
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ur 6th grade graduates and their families gathered together in their cars at Brandeis Bardin’s House of the Book to celebrate a meaningful, out-of-the-box
culmination experience. Music filled the air as our sixth graders walked across the stage with their own “theme song� music blasting and received their diplomas. They were met with honks of joy. It was an energizing and memorable morning for all.
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eginning in the fall, we embarked upon a school-wide quest to walk to Israel. As part of social emotional learning, twice a week students stretched their legs and exercised their bodies and brains, walking and clocking miles, determined to meet our destination. Brain research proves that physical activity and blood moving through the body leads to greater readiness to learn. When we pivoted to distance learning, students continued walking and we logged miles virtually. By the end of the school year, we reached our goal and made it to Israel! This was an innovative and intergrated exercise in both Judaic studies and physical education. It allowed students to release some energy and be better prepared to learn in the classroom and from home.
Our family was so impressed by VBSDS’ ability to pivot overnight to virtual learning. In a time of so much uncertainty,
Virtual
VBSDS
provided
a
unique sense of routine, comfort and safety. The curriculum’s continued focus on social emotional wellbeing and community building made all of the difference for our entire household.
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Seriously Connected T
his summer, we were delighted to provide families with an opportunity for their children to connect both in-person and virtually via Camp Kef. The unique, in-person experience created a sense of summer “normalcy” and routine during a time that was anything but normal! We are proud to report that Camp Kef On Campus ran very smoothly, with students social-distancing, wearing face coverings, washing hands many times per day and following the same protocols we will have in place when students return to campus for learning. We were so impressed by our students, especially our youngest campers, who followed protocols with diligence and grace. It was amazing to see campers in action, and both parents and students have
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expressed their gratitude. A surprise inperson inspection by the Los Angeles County Department of Health yielded a glowing report. Camp Kef met and surpassed all health and safety requirements set forth by the County. We truly knocked it out of the park! A special “thank you” to our incredible Camp Kef On Campus team, led by Rabbi Avi Taff and Art Specialist Lisa Suman, who paved the way for such a successful experience, and to Orit Rappaport, VBS’ Operations and Facilities Manager and Pandemic Response Coordinator, whose insight and assistance were invaluable. In addition to Camp Kef On Campus, we also held a six week virtual Camp Kef-Connected. Over 115 campers had a well-rounded, enriching and FUN experience cooking, coding,
reading, doing yoga, singing, crafting, baking challah and more! This virtual program would not have been possible without our innovative Camp Kef-Connected leadership team (also led by Rabbi Avi Taff), as well as guest instructors. Thank you to the VBSDS Board of Trustees and the many generous donors who made the vision for virtual camp a reality. Because
of overwhelming community support, we were able to offer the virtual camp experience free of charge to all VBS families. The sessions were thoughtful, creative and helped children maintain a sense of connection to their friends and to VBSDS throughout the summer.
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Seriously Proud Congrats Class of 2020! Mia Abramovitch Abigail Ahdoot Dara Benbassat Chad Boxer Zenith Davis Eitan Epstein Zachary Faith Meira Farkas Bryan Friedrich Wyatt Golden Nava Herstein Oren Aigen Hill Elizabeth Hoffman Noa Jacoby Gabrielle Kadouri
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Ella Lax Aaron Manzour Jona Mass Tal Nitka Ashton Rabineau Daniella Rief Noach Sakal Lilia Schindelheim Leah Soormaghen Norah Soormaghen Natalie Subero Jonathan Telem Rose Weisner Daniel Werner Bryan Yasherim Tomer Zur
Our graduates were accepted to the following middle schools: Abraham Joshua Heschel Day School AC Stelle Middle School Berkeley Hall School Chaminade College Preparatory Hesby Oaks Leadership Charter Kadima Day School Milken Community Schools Oakwood School Viewpoint School
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BS Day School has the privilege of guiding students during their formative elementary school years. A source of tremendous pride for our school is seeing how VBSDS alumni navigate the world outside the Day School campus walls, especially as they matriculate to middle school. Across Los Angeles, VBS Day School students have an incredible reputation. They are known for the way they seamlessly transition to middle school with academic ability, confidence, leadership skills, social emotional intelligence and an inherent kindness toward others. While the majority of our graduates choose to continue their education at Jewish middle schools, we celebrate the variety of paths they take. Many of our alums excitedly return to campus each Friday to join our Day
School students for Kabbalat Shabbat. The significance of these alumni choosing to end the week at their Day School “forever home� is something we treasure and makes Shabbat sweeter.
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Honoring Our Community
Congratulations to the teachers, students and community leaders honored by VBSDS in 2019/20!
Morah Teaching Award
Yossi Dresner Scholarship Award
Michelle Christians
Liora Steinberg
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G
ichelle Christians is an approachable, hard-working General Studies teacher with a calm demeanor. She truly sets the tone for positivity in her classroom. Michelle is a consummate professional who is determined to always do her best, learn and grow. She strives to meet the needs of all learners and stretches students to achieve heights they never knew possible. A team player, Michelle collaborates with her teaching partners and is hungry for professional development. She empowers, encourages and inspires her students. We are so proud to have Michelle as our 2019/20 Morah Teaching Award recipient and as part of our VBSDS family!
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iven annually to an outstanding student who demonstrates academic excellence, the 2019/20 Yossi Dresner Scholarship award was presented to Liora Steinberg. Liora is a top student who excels across the curriculum. She is enthusiastic, responsible, dedicated and motivated. Liora’s teachers shared that her positive attitude and respectful nature make her “a joy to teach.” She is a terrific communicator and is well respected by her peers and teachers. Liora truly exemplifies the finest Jewish values. Mazel Tov to Liora on this well-deserved honor!
Excellence in Teaching Award: Exemplary Collaborative Instructors The Kindergarten Team: Chelsea Manos (General Studies) Rotem Sherf (Judaic Studies & Hebrew) Michelle Stone (General Studies)
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his year we were honored to celebrate the kindergarten teaching team for their collaboration, dedication and passion. Below is a poem that was presented to the team, along with the award, in spring 2020. Congratulations to Chelsea, Rotem and Michelle, the recipients of the Excellence in Teaching Award: Exemplary Collaborative instructors.
The ability to work together, Is something we all hold dear. This year this ability was tested, Both from very far and near. Keeping smiles, optimism, and energy, Beaming, evident, and high. This team was able to connect to students, Providing guidance and the encouragement to try. How does a five year old Zoom, Focus and attention being a task. These teachers figured it out, Their gifts are sure to last. Sharing, caring and flexibility, Were the tenets of the day. Chelsea, Michelle and Rotem, Paved the path and led the way.
Each one creating relationships Lasting, meaningful, and strong, The families’ happiness and glee, Will last a lifetime long. Chelsea stepped in to help, At first a long term sub. Her place is now cemented, Due to her fortitude and love. Michelle is up for anything, With an attitude, “can do”, She laughs and plans and helps to see A program through and through. Rotem has great ideas And a smile and heart to match, Her love of all things Jewish is palpable, And onto this love the kids do latch. We thank them for their collaboration, Their willingness to grow, The Dream Team we call them, And now the rest of you know!
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Excellence in Teaching Award: Building Meaningful Connections in a Time of Disconnection
Rita Reznikoff Leadership Award Roslyn Grinberg ‘86
Lisa Suman, Art Specialist
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isa Suman is known for her creativity, teamwork and dedication. She is kind, patient and always willing to lend a hand. In a time of distance learning, Lisa offered projects that students could easily create at home, including a creative Passover art challenge. Lisa helped with the 2nd grade Master Artist project, the 6th grade Heroes Project, and facilitated the 6th grade Tile Project, always going above and beyond. As one of the student council advisors, Lisa met with officers via Zoom and kept the integrity of Rosh Hodesh dress-up days intact. Her dedication to VBSDS is demonstrated most in her tireless work to create the yearbook each year. She also supervised the expansion and remodel of the new art studio and keeps the lunch program running smoothly. We are proud to have Lisa Suman as the first ever recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award: Connection in a Time of Disconnection.
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he 2019/20 recipient of the Rita Reznikoff Leadership Award was President of the Board of Trustees, Roslyn Grinberg. The award was presented by Head of School Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei at the June Board Installation. Roslyn was celebrated for her leadership, commitment to the mission of VBSDS and her steadfast support and partnership with VBSDS staff. The award was especially meaningful because Roslyn, a VBSDS alumnae, recalls Rita Reznikoff with great affection as a model leader. Roslyn’s leadership shone brightly before the pandemic and rose to new heights of inspiration once we pivoted to remote instruction. The Rita Reznikoff Award seeks to honor emerging leaders making a difference in our community. We are so proud to have Roslyn at the helm of our Day School. Her commitment to our mission’s work is inspiring.
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Honor Roll VISIONARY $25,000+ Daniel and Tahli Abramovitch Gil and Aileen Borok Aaron and Toby Feit Victor and Lisa Kohn PARTNER $15,000-$24,999 Kamran and Diana Boudai David and Roslyn Grinberg Scott and Ann Lieberman TRAIL BLAZER $10,000-$14,999 Tal and Mory Barak Colliers International Tennyson and Brynie Collins Howard and Francee Davine Alan and Emily Feit Feit Electric Jay and Nancy Schulman
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Our donors provide support that helps shape the educational and extracurricular experiences of each and every VBSDS student. We are so grateful for their enduring impact on our school and commitment to ensuring the ongoing vitality of VBSDS. The contributions recognized in the following pages reflect cumulative gifts to the Annual Fund, Generations’ Circle, VIVA, Endowment, and capital projects made between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020.
PIONEER $5,000-$9,999 Ronald Blanc Harvey and Maris Bock Richard and Irene Burstein Beryl and Joyce Craig Mark and Sylvie Deutsch Ernst & Young Shahab and Natalie Kohen Joshua and Selene Maiman Craig and Shelley Margulies Sam Melehani Milken Community Schools Richard and Nurit Robin Karen Rubinstein Jonathan and Rebecca Steinberg Michael and Jacklyn Waterman HEAD OF SCHOOL $3,600-$4,999 Martin and Gabrielle Baker Matthew and Andrea Benbassat Zorik and Ilana Gordon George Hess and Lisa Kabaker Hess Rabbis Joshua and Becky Hoffman Oren and Orit Rappaport
Bernie and Annette Rubinstein Simpson Thacher & Barlett LLP David and Michelle Spiegel Matthew and Amanda Waterman Jeffrey and Caryn Wernecke INNOVATOR $2,500-$3,599 Dennis and Ilene Berman Jordan and Ailee Dembo Donald and Claire Marks Northwestern Mutual Foundation Tom and Melody Yadegar LION’S CLUB $1,800-$2,499 Dov z”l and Bernice Borok David and Tiffany Boxer Jon and Susan Dolgen Jerry Gerard Daniel and Tali Gordon Jonathan and Jo Carol Hiatt Amir and Inbal Jacoby Barbara Karwoski Lefkowitz Family Foundation Gary and Dena Maple Michelle Meisels
Morton Rappaport Edward and Peggy Robin Joshua and Lindsey Schank Mel and Alda Schuldenfrei Rabbis Brian and Deborah Schuldenfrei David Tashman and Linda Sevilla David and Tammy Temkin Sean and Shira Wachtel Evan and Robin Warner Inon and Osnat Zur Alan and Judy Zweig BLUE AND WHITE $1,200-$1,799 Jehuda and Robina Abramovitch Joel and Fay Adelman Ken and Leslie Benbassat Buzzy and Tzipy Bookman Kamyar and Ilyse Boudai Stephen and Stacey Davis Michael DiBenedetto and Shoshana Kapnek The Getty Foundation Beverly Gruber Matthew Gutman and Daphna Venyige Gutman Ignition Auto Consulting, LLC Dror and Daniella Karidi Judith Leland Nir and Orna Marom Nir and Kristine Pagorek Zion Perets and Ruth Zadikany David and Amy Rice Brandon and Lisa Schindelheim Michele Seltzer
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Dan Shotz and Emily Jaffe Daniel and Jordana Signer Ansel and Lynn Slome Slome Capital Corporation Navid Souferi and Tanya Hoorfar Rabbi Avi and Amy Taff David and Lyn Tobman Benjamin and Elana Vorspan Michael Wachtell and Linda Silver Jon and Lee Weisner PATRON $500-$1,199 Michael and Judy Altman Jesse and Lill Beim Alyse Golden Berkley Sergio Bicas and Tamar Dolgen Stan and Nancy Bloom David and Ellen Braun Richard and Barbara Braun Stewart and Paula Brooks Derek and Lynette Brown Jason and Valerie Carmona Martin and Sharleen Cohen Robert Cohen and Nancy Sher-Cohen Mike Deitch and Ozlem Equils Joel Douglas Micah and Nicole Eigler Kambiz and Shoula Farzamdoost Richard and Adinah Finn Amos and Susan Freedy Henry Froch Elie and Pamela Gindi Martin and Nancy Gorman Jeffrey and Karen Goss Jonathan Greene
James Gurbach Kaveh and Heela Hadad Daniel and Dana Hadl Scott and Marcie Howard Yonatan and Mallory Howard Clyde and Nicole Isaacson Richard and Julie Jaffe Ron and Lindy Kadouri Ken and Stefanie Kay Lathrop GPM Matthew Lax and Kareen Akry Kenneth and Barbara Lopaty Jim and Glennis Malcolm Richard Marcus Darren and Robin Melameth Edward Moyzes Marty Nagel Nastec Reuven and Ellen Nitka Lisa Niznick-Leonard Naidu and Jane Permaul Bob Platt Jeff and Jenny Podell Greg Pollock Bruce and Debby Powell Gil and Sharon Rief Marvin and Carol Rowen Steven and Janet Scharf Eric Schwimmer and Michelle Rapoport Steven and Judi Shapiro Jack and Rita Sinder Madelyn Steinberg Stephen Strocker z’l and Barbara Avishay Seth and Naomi Strongin Charlie and Sharon Subero Bobby Taff and Judy Kahler Elliott and Maddie Taft
David and Einav Telem Stephen and Melita Vickter Charles and Elaine Weidmann Joel and Sharon Weingarten Lloyd Weinstein Joseph and Rachel Zadikany FRIEND UP TO $499 Payam and Cynthia Abrishami Behrooz and Maria Ahdoot Glenn and Sheila Alperstein David and Channie Amato Jared and Tania Ament Menahem and Lina Aviani Mike and Chantel Azarkman Harris and Penny Ballow Shahrooz and Delaram Banafsheha Eli Barak Kfir and Sharon Basson Joel and Shirley Belinfante Jonathan and Irina Benshalom David and Karen Bental Nina Berger Michelle Berkowitz Nate Bernstein and Judith Cymerman Prosper Benhaim and Katherine Wininger Eric and Alina Bershatski Barry and Ruth Binder David and Heather Binder Bryan and Alissa Binns Emily Bliss Adam Blitz
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Bruce and Cirel Blitz Craig and Zayda Vidal Bloomgarden Molly Bogad Joe and Joana Breckner Dan Brickman and Susan Safer Jeffrey and Ellen Brown Steven Caraco and Jill Edelman John Cefalu and Melissa Randall Mark and Michelle Christians Alex and Ashlee Cohen Jacob and Rodica Cohen Martin Cohen Ronit Cohen Dov and Sheila Cohn Michael and Darlene Cohn Tennyson and Brynie Collins Crown Media Holdings, Inc. Erwin Diller and Molly Forrest Eric Dollins Efraim and Miriam Donitz Allan and Bonnie Duboff Lisa Edley David Egdes and Victoria Kaufman Howard Ehrenberg and Susan Rubin Neal and Jaye Eigler Daniel and Andrea Epstein Edward and Elaine Epstein Brian Fagan and Lisa Lainer-Fagan Thalia Faye Harry and Eve First James and Ruth Fleisher Darren Franklin and Alexis Leland Steven and Andrea Friedich
Vladimir Froim and Tamara Modilevsky Seth and Amy Front Jeff and Arie Gersh Terri Getzug Afshin and Karmela Giladi Marly Goldberg and Nicole Lynn Katherine Goldman William and Sandra Goodglick Arkadiy and Yana Gorelik Lorin and Amy Green Alice Greenfield Stuart Greenfield Barrie Grobstein Martin Gruber Andrew and Lauren Gunderson Michael and Marcia Halperin Morad and Sharona Hanasab Meghan Hart Jay and Laura Hendler Nancy Herbst Uri Herscher and Myna Meshul Sean and Olivia Herstein Sigal Hezi Hope Unit Foundation Inc. Gil Hopenstand Eileen Horowitz Hal and Rhonda Hurwitz Joel Hyatt and Susan Green Yochanan and Yishai Kabaker Irene Kales Alan and Rochelle Karpman Daniel and Nicole Kashani Etan and Alison Kelman Stuart and Vicky Kelman Eric and Thalia Kingsley Sharon Kipnis Gayle Kirschbaum Hooman and Elham Kohankabir
Mickey Kommel Stephen and Toby Koppekin Orli Kotkin Eric and Natalie Kotler Joseph and Judy Land Paul and Gail Lawler Esfir Lebovich Andrew and Marissa Leitner Ken and Yvonne Lemunyon Adam and Lisa Levine Michael and Lori Levine Ilan Levy Mark and Charmaine Lipschitz Edward Livingston and Eve Guth Edmund Madadshahi and Dalit Shtevy Teresa Mahgetefteh Philip and Sylvia Mandel Chelsea Manos Caleb Marcus Nitza Markman Steve and Judith Mass Kim Mehlman Oren and Karin Mendel Jerry and Michele Mendelsohn Linda Mendelsohn Kyle Meyerowitz Darwin and Bernice Miller Eric and Molly Mills Ricky and Cindy Mintz Alan and Nora Moreno Dalia Navaro Sigalit Nechemia Debbie Neinstein Ronen and Shirley Nourian Samuel and Alyne Oppenheim
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Sydney and Sylvia Orel Ronald Ozur Barton and Linda Pachino Andrew and Donalisa Pelter Larry and Robin Permaul Jonathan and Amy Phillips Mark and Sharon Pollock Rabbi Bruce and Tamar Raff Joe Rao Benjamin and Yona Rapoport Ron and Sari Rappaport Gary and Sheryl Redish Ari and Lauren Resnik Alex and Elena Reyter Christopher Rogers Mark and Michelle Rosenblatt Steven and Janine Rostovsky Jack and Joan Rubin Les and Lenore Rukasin Stephen Sass and Steven Hochstadt Hillel and Bilha Schechter Daniel and Jill Schecter Susan Schorr Edwin and Elaine Schreiber Shlomi and Erica Sfadia John and Lani Shallman Rotem Sherf Ramin Shillian and Rosa Behdadi Arthur and Wendy Smith Julie Sobel Adam and Jamie Spector Steve and Marcie Spetner Allen and Laurie Stalick Andrew and Svetlana Stein George and Irene Stern Jonny and Lea Stern Yoram and Carolyn Stern
Brian and Melanie Sweeney Judy Finkelstein Taff Mark and Janet Tashman David and Esther Telerant Doron and Laurie Tisser Maxine Tobey Ithzak Tzafrir and Nurit Milstein-Tzafrir David and Carly Vazana Matthew and Karen Vear Rabbi David and Bonnie Vorspan Myrna Wachs Ken and Laurel Warner Adam and Shana Wasserman Michael and Shari Weiner Matthew and LeeAnn Weintraub Aaron and Lucy Werner Limor Wertheim Haguy Wigdor and Galit Strugano-Wigdor Albert and Claire Wilen Jay Yarm and Marilyn Beren Arlene Zicklin
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Ways to Give Every contribution to Valley Beth Shalom Day School is vitally important to the school’s continued growth and success. Each donor is an integral part of the school’s history and future. An investment in VBSDS will benefit generations of children and their families - a legacy we can all be proud of.
Gifts to VBS Day School can be made in a number of ways.
01.
Cash - For income tax purposes, your cash gift is tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Gifts may be made by cash, check or credit card. Gifts can also be broken up into monthly or quarterly installments and can be charged automatically for your convenience.
02.
Securities - Gifts of stock, bonds or mutual funds are valuable ways to make a contribution and receive tax benefits based on the
43.
03.
Matching Gifts - Many businesses/corporations encourage philanthropy by matching employee donations. Matching gifts can double or triple the impact of your gift.
value of the asset(s).
04.
Planned Giving - Donors may wish to consider giving through such means as life insurance, bequests or charitable trusts. Planned giving may be a way to reduce estate and inheritance taxes.
For more information about institutional giving, please contact Rachel-Ann Levy, Director of Advancement, at 818-530-4074 or rlevy@vbsds.org.
Day School Administration 2019/20 Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei Head of School Nancy Herbst Director of General Studies Tamar Raff Director of Judaic Studies Sam Schwerdtfeger Dean of Students & Athletic Director Avi Taff Day School Rabbi Karin Mendel Director of Finance & Operations Nora Moreno Curriculum Coordinator Michelle Berkowitz Director of Admissions & Marketing
Admissions Valley Beth Shalom Day School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at this school. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, tuition assistance, or other school administered programs. The Annual Report is a publication for the Valley Beth Shalom Harold M. Schulweis Day School, a non-profit private school serving the San Fernando Valley’s Jewish community. We gratefully acknowledge the many donors who supported VBS Day School and have made every effort to ensure that the listings in this publication are accurate. If, however, an error has been made, please accept our apologies and contact our Director of Advancement, Rachel-Ann Levy, to address any questions or concerns.
Judy Land Director of Advancement Elana Vorspan VBS Director of Marketing & Communications VBS Synagogue Clergy Rabbi Edward M. Feinstein Rabbi Joshua Hoffman Rabbi Noah Farkas Rabbi Avi Taff Cantor Herschel Fox Cantor Phil Baron Annual Report Staff Michelle Berkowitz Cirel Blitz Yochanan Kabaker Judy Land Rachel-Ann Levy Rabbi Deborah Schuldenfrei Emily Shefer Rachel Silton Diana German Tagle Elana Vorspan
Valley Beth Shalom Harold M. Schulweis Day School is a Solomon Schechter Day School accredited by the California Association
of
Independent
Schools
(CAIS),
Western
Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Builders of Jewish Education (BJE).
Contact us 15739 Ventura Boulevard Encino, California 91436 Tel. 818.788.2199 VBSDS.org @vbsdayschool