Issuu

In This Issue Message from the Head of School. . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Message from the President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Grandparents and Special Friends . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Alumni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Innovation Lab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Together We Thrive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 New Staff Bios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Make A Difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Board of Directors Karen Peaceman, President Adam Winick, Executive Vice President Brad Levin, Lynn S. Schrayer, and Adam Winick, Vice Presidents of Development Ari Taitz, M.D., Treasurer Reuben Warshawsky, Secretary Alan Frankel, Ph.D., Immediate Past President Lynn S. Schrayer, Second Past President Larry D. Adler, Founding President Deanna Abrams Larry Becker Jacqueline Kott Wolle Anne Lanski Scott Lederman Lisa Levitas Becky Mati Ron Meisler

Robert Romanoff Marcos Rosenberg Danit Steinbach Leslie Rosen Stern Rachel Treister Jason Wiznitzer Rabbi Carl Wolkin

Administrative Team Tony Frank, Head of School Rabbi Zachary Silver, Rav Beit Sefer and Director of Jewish Studies Jason Loeb, Academic Dean Stu Jacobs, Dean of Faculty Stephanie Sanderman, Director of Development and Alumni Relations Riv Lynch, Director of Admissions Jim Baumstark, Director of Finance and Business Operations Inez Drazin, Director of Building and Administrative Services

Senior Israel Experience: Against All Odds Last May, 31 intrepid adventurers traveled to Israel with Rochelle Zell Jewish High School on the Senior Israel Experience. After arriving in Israel, the group had a mandatory week-long quarantine period where they spent time bonding, celebrating Shabbat, and even exploring the history of rock and roll in Israel. Our seniors noted that this quarantine was, in fact, much more of an extended Shabbaton of communal bonding than a forced period of isolation. Beginning the trip this way was an opportunity to connect with classmates in profound ways. From the Kinneret to the Arava Desert to Jerusalem, Shabbat to Shavuot and all the days in between, the trip was meaningful and exciting. Rabbi Zach Silver explained, “The power of an Israel trip for teenagers has always been clear - there is no equivalent to experiencing how Israel manifests the deep historical ties of the Jewish people to the land and Jewish people to each other. Following a semester of delving deep into the history of Israel, students also saw in person how Israel strives to live out the mission of its Declaration of Independence.” Our seniors grappled with core questions about how Israel strives to live up to the mission of being both a Jewish and democratic state, while hiking the land and learning about the unique environmental realities of the region. Our Israel curriculum fosters critical thinking through studying Jewish texts and language while simultaneously fostering a community where students trust those around them. The Senior Israel Experience empowers RZJHS Seniors to take ownership of their Jewish life and their relationship with Israel. This trust allowed for the deepest possible engagement in Israel, one that will grow from here. Noah Brody (’21) shared, “The Senior Israel Experience was the time of my life. I learned so much and experienced some of the best that Israel has to offer, all while being with my best friends!” After a year full of uncertainty and disruption, the Seniors felt extremely grateful that they were able to still explore the beauty of Israel against all odds.

Message from the Head of School When Rochelle Zell Jewish High School, along with schools everywhere, pivoted to fully-remote learning back in March of 2020, the future of our world seemed frighteningly perilous and uncertain. Little did we know then that the Covid-19 pandemic would continue to plague our world in the fall of 2021 and beyond. Through it all, teaching and learning and Jewish life at Rochelle Zell continued without interruption. Along the way we transitioned from remote to hybrid learning, and eventually resumed full inperson learning last spring. We learned the importance of being nimble and adaptive in a rapidly changing world, and we continue to develop and expand that capacity every day. Two senior classes have successfully completed their requirements for graduation during this time, and two classes of freshmen have been welcomed and integrated into our community. We are grateful that in many respects, life at Rochelle Zell is returning to normal this year, but we are mindful that our world has changed and will continue to change going forward. The first year of the pandemic was marked by considerable disruption and loss, and those experiences will remain with us for years to come. We have all struggled this past year, but it has been inspiring to see our students and staff navigate through hardship with remarkable resilience and grace, and a quiet determination to make the best of their situation. Although “nimble and adaptive” remains the order of the day, our essential mission remains unchanged along with fundamental

qualities that we continue to cherish – the intimacy of our community, our commitment to the intellectual, spiritual and ethical growth of each student, and the warm relationships between teachers and students. These relationships in particular have become a foremost selling point when promoting the school. Students and alumni frequently emphasize this fact when asked about the school, describing in considerable detail the ways in which their teachers know and value each student as a unique and multifaceted individual. Our mission is also to inspire students to think critically, and we see this come to life every day in our school. Our students are active and engaged participants in their learning. When speaking with them about their learning here, students have reflected that asking questions is not only encouraged by teachers, it is organic to the learning culture of Rochelle Zell. Finally, our emphasis on critical thinking and educating the whole student unfolds in a context that is framed by the cumulative wisdom of our Jewish traditions and values. Critical thinking means that students at Rochelle Zell do not merely absorb the intelligence of others; they acquire and construct their own wisdom. They come here not just to learn about Judaism but to “live Judaism,” as stated in our mission, gaining the knowledge and skills to make well-informed decisions as fully empowered young Jewish adults living in the modern world. With best wishes for a Shanah Tovah U’Metukah, a sweet and happy New Year, Tony Frank

Message from the Board President It is with great pride, gratitude, and excitement that I begin my third year as President of Rochelle Zell Jewish High School’s Board of Directors. I am honored to welcome you all back to the 2021-2022 school year. We are thrilled to be back in full in-person learning and to return to our regular suite of activities, including a full slate of extra-curricular activities and Shabbatonim, in addition to classroom learning with the entire student body together. Over the last eighteen months or so, I have come to have an even deeper appreciation for the leaders who came before me and who developed the mission of the school: Rochelle Zell Jewish High School creates a culture of academic excellence that inspires and prepares our students to think critically, achieve their full potential, and live Judaism as responsible and involved citizens in the modern world. One of the silver linings to the last school year was that I had

the opportunity serve as a classroom monitor which allowed me to be in the building during the school day more than I otherwise would have been. I could see the faculty interacting with the students and the students with each other first-hand. I saw the strong relationships and the robust love of learning that permeates all that we do. I was so proud of how the staff and the students adapted to new circumstances and became more resilient. It is impossible to know in this moment all the twists and turns in store for us during the coming year, but I do know that we will continue to use our mission statement as our “north star” and that protecting the health and safety of your students and family will always be the school’s top priority. Thank you for trusting us with educating your students. Rochelle Zell always helps each student become their very best self. This year will be no exception. Shanah Tovah Umetukah, Karen L. Peaceman

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See You Soon, Grandparents and Special Friends! Grandparents and Special Friends are a vital part of the Rochelle Zell Jewish High School community. Your support, even if from afar, has meant the world to us and surely to our students. Thank you for being there for them and for the RZJHS community. We have missed seeing you in person over the past 18 months, but the days of Zoom are coming to an end! We have many opportunities for grandparents to get involved, in-person, this year. We love and value our grandparent community and are excited to see your smiling faces back here soon. Please continue to support Rochelle Zell Jewish High School by joining the Grandparents and Special Friends Association with an annual donation. Your support empowers students at RZJHS to think critically, live Jewishly, and become responsible and involved citizens in the modern world. From all of us at Rochelle Zell Jewish High School, thank you! We are looking forward to seeing you soon. Angie and Larry Adler Chairs, Grandparents and Special Friends Association If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Stephanie Sanderman, Director of Development, at ssanderman@rzjhs.org or 847-324-3720.

Alumni, We Want to Hear From You At RZJHS, we value our alumni as an integral part of our community. Now more than ever, we cherish the wonderful connections and memories you have made inside the CJHS/ RZJHS walls. Your deep relationships should not come to a close when you move on to your next chapter. We want to be here for you through all stages of your lives and support you along the way. We have numerous events planned just for alumni, and would love to see you back in our building for a visit. But involvement begins with you. If your contact information changes, please be sure to send us your updated email address, phone number, and home address so we can stay in touch. Please share your simchas with our school—we may even send you a special gift! No matter where you go, Rochelle Zell Jewish High School wants to be a partner on your journey. We can’t wait to hear from you. Contact me anytime at ssanderman@rzjhs.org or 847-324-3720. Stephanie Sanderman Director of Development and Alumni Relations

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*Events subject to change based on evolving COVID-19 protocol.

Schechter/Bernat Family Innovation Lab This past summer, we were honored to formally dedicate the Schechter/Bernat Family Innovation Lab. This new learning space, which opened in Fall of 2020, supports unique and advanced opportunities in teaching and learning. The Schechter/Bernat family said about the Innovation Lab, “Technology, science, and engineering have always been a passion of our family. To be able to create a place where students can share this passion is a special way we can give back to the school.” The Innovation Lab features 3D printers, a soldering station, and vinyl cutters. Students in the STEAM class of our Fine, Performing, and Literary Arts (FPLA) program work through choice-based FUSE curriculum, which offers over 30 custom STEAM and design challenges. Challenges are based on topics like 3D design and printing, robotics, architecture, music mixing, animation and more. Students who are not enrolled in the FPLA STEAM class are welcome to drop-in to the Innovation Lab during their free periods to use the 3D printers and other resources. Abigail Kime, Director of Instructional Technology, said about the Innovation Lab, “We’ve created a space for all students that is both inviting and flexible. Students enjoy the freedom and resources to explore their interests and passion projects. When I walk into the room, I’m intrigued by the on-going projects displayed. It’s always a surprise and that’s what makes the Innovation Lab so exciting for us as educators.” We are so thankful to the Schechter/Bernat Family for their support!

As we embark on a new school year, we look back at the challenges and opportunities we have embraced together as a community.

Learning together. Working together. Playing together. Praying together. Celebrating together. Creating together. Leading together.

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New Staff Bios for the 2021-22 School Year We are thrilled to welcome the following staff to Rochelle Zell Jewish High School Judy Flater (Front Desk Administrative Assistant)—BA in Communication Studies, The University of Iowa. Ms. Flater has an extensive background in Digital Marketing, Copy Writing/Editing, and Project Management.

Rebeccah Hartz, RZJHS Alumnus, Class of ’05 (Jewish Studies)—BA in Jewish Studies, McGill University; MA in Education and Society, McGill University. Ms. Hartz has been teaching a variety of Jewish Studies courses, as well as courses in science, history, botany, and zoology, at the middle and high-school levels since 2014. Ms. Hartz is also a nature and wilderness enthusiast, most recently working for the North Branch Restoration Project and Friends of the Illinois Nature Preserves.

Sari Lindner (English)—BA in English and English Education, University of Iowa. A Chicago native, Ms. Lindner has had a passion for teaching from an early age. Ms. Lindner has experience teaching at-level and accelerated secondary English courses, and as a resource teacher with a focus on academic strategies and skills.

Roman Marchenko (History)—BA in Political Science and International Studies, Northwestern University; MA in Secondary Teaching and Learning, DePaul University. Mr. Marchenko has been teaching Social Studies for over a decade, and is excited to return to RZJHS (he previously taught in 2008-2013). Mr. Marchenko has a passion for writing as well, often looking to incorporate various styles of writing into the social studies curriculum.

Sergey Poroshkov (Maintenance Engineer)—Born in Siberia and raised in Crimea, Mr. Poroshkov immigrated to the United States in 2001. For 18 years, he worked at Zhivago Restaurant and Banquet in Skokie as a maintenance engineer. For the past two years he has been part of a team that cleans the school and has recently become a permanent part of our staff.

Anne Robbin (Director of Marketing)—MA in Jewish Professional Studies, Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning & Leadership; BA in Architecture, Carnegie Mellon University. Ms. Robbin has been working as a Jewish communal professional for over 15 years with experience in communications, marketing, engagement, leadership development, and event planning.

Staci Studnitzer (Student Activities Director; Economics)—BS in Business Administration, University of Illinois; Certificate of Advanced Study in Education, Northwestern University. Ms. Studnitzer has almost 20 years of experience teaching Social Studies at the secondary level. In addition to teaching a variety of Social Studies courses over the years, Ms. Studnitzer has been involved with student life and extra-curricular activities, acting as faculty advisor for numerous student clubs and programs. Lacey Weisbaum (English)—BA in English, University of Michigan. Ms. Weisbaum has taught various English courses at the middle and high-school levels since 2007 and is excited to return to RZJHS (she previously taught in 2016-2018). Ms. Weisbaum brings an expertise in developing curricula that are innovative, integrate themes and skills across curricula, and stimulate genuine student curiosity. In addition, we are thrilled to announce that Stu Jacobs (Dean of Faculty) and Rabbi Zach Silver (Rav Beit Sefer and Director of Jewish Studies) have transitioned into new roles this year! 4

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Make a Difference at Rochelle Zell Jewish High School Create a lasting impact on our community. Donate today. Rochelle Zell Jewish High School is the proud recipient of generous gifts from the Zell Family Foundation, the Harvey L. Miller Supporting Foundation, the Crown Family, and Andy & Ken Saffir. Thanks to these gifts and the invaluable assistance and support of JUF, we are able to provide a robust Jewish education that empowers students throughout the Chicagoland area to achieve their full potential. We still need your help! Tuition alone does not cover the total cost of educating our students. To meet our annual operating budget, which sustains rigorous academic programs, generous tuition assistance, team-oriented athletics, engaging extracurricular activities, and more, we must raise over $1.5 million each year. RZJHS prides itself on providing an education to every qualified Jewish student, regardless of financial circumstances. Over half of our students receive tuition assistance. Offering financial support enables the school to attract a more diverse student body, providing our students a richer educational and social experience and aligning with the founding policy and philosophy of the school. Please consider making a gift to help ensure that all who want an RZJHS education can afford it. If you have already made a gift to RZJHS this year, thank you. Please consider making an additional gift to support all that we do as we get back to a normal school year. Your generosity allows us to continue our mission to create well-rounded students who think critically, live Jewishly, and become responsible and involved citizens in the modern world. On behalf of all of us at RZJHS, thank you! Make your gift online at www.RZJHS.org or mail your donation in the enclosed envelope.

Easy Ways to Help 1. Make a Gift to the Annual Fund The RZJHS Annual Fund provides much-needed tuition assistance and direct support for the day-to-day operations of the school. Give anytime to the Annual Fund to provide an ongoing source of revenue that allows us to offer educational opportunities and extracurricular activities that may otherwise be reduced or eliminated.

2. Tributes and Memorials Making a gift to RZJHS is the perfect way to honor or celebrate loved ones and life cycle events. RZJHS will send the recipient a customized card for gifts of $18 or more and your donation will help support the Annual Fund.

3. Amazon Smile Sign up for Amazon Smile and select Rochelle Zell Jewish High School. A percentage of all your Amazon shopping will go straight to RZJHS, with zero added cost to you!

For more information, contact Stephanie Sanderman, Director of Development, at ssanderman@rzjhs.org or call 847-324-3720.

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Rochelle Zell Jewish High School 1095 Lake Cook Road Deerfield, IL 60015 847.470.6700

Non Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Deerfield, IL Permit No. 101

We are accepting applications for the 2022-23 school year! Access applications, forms and more on our website, www.RZJHS.org or email Riv Lynch, Director of Admissions, rlynch@rzjhs.org.

Prospective Families Open House Attend our Open House on Sunday, November 7 to learn more about RZJHS.

Save $500 Apply by December 15, 2021 and receive a $500 tuition credit.

Incoming 9th grade placement test RSVP on our website under admission events on December 12, 2021 or February 13, 2022.

Family tours and student shadow days Please contact the admissions department at 847.324.3706 or email Riv Lynch, Director of Admissions, rlynch@rzjhs.org with any questions.

Save The Date February 9 is Curriculum Night for incoming 9th grade students and their parents.

Tuition Assistance We are proud to offer personalized approaches to help Jewish families manage tuition. Apply early - the deadine to complete applications is January 11, 2022.

Mission Rochelle Zell Jewish High School creates a culture of academic excellence that inspires and prepares our students to think critically, achieve their full potential, and live Judaism as responsible and involved citizens in the modern world.

Subscribe to our admissions newsletter - email Riv Lynch, Director of Admissions, rlynch@rzjhs.org. Rochelle Zell is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community. Affiliated with Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools. Accredited by the Illinois State Board of Education and The Independent Schools Association of the Central States.