Mishpacha Magazine
Front row (from left): Cara Katz (Class of 04), Justin Segal (Class of 03), Vanessa Stern (Class of 09)
Back row (from left): Samara Laskin (Class of 02), Romi Laskin (Class of 06), Emma Weinstein (Class of 07), Galia Horwitz (Class of 09) Lucy Samuel (Class of 07), Maya Rosenkrantz (Class of 07), Adi Rosenkrantz (Class of 11)
Dear VTT Alumni, Families and Supporters,
The events of October 7th and its painful aftermath have irrevocably changed the Jewish people, Israel, and our community. These events have awakened dormant generational trauma in many, but have also brought our community closer than ever.
For over a century, the Vancouver Jewish community has turned to the school as a pillar. During these complex times, we ' ve positioned VTT as a place of normalcy and hope, witnessing unprecedented growth in enrollment as families recognize the value of Jewish education and community connection. Not since our Oak Street campus first opened in 1948 has our value proposition been clearer or more necessary to the future safety and continuity of our people
Our enrollment is now 540 students strong, with our student body more diverse than ever geographically, ethnically, and religiously including a record 26 new students from Israel and 124 children of alumni Our students continue to achieve remarkable success academically, through Tornadoes athletics, robotics, Bible contests, and as budding farmers of our community garden
These accomplishments reflect not only individual achievement, but the strength and resilience of our entire VTT community. The spirit of togetherness and mutual support has been particularly evident during these challenging times, as students, parents, teachers, and staff have come together to create a safe haven of learning and growth.
As we move forward, our north star remains our duty to our ancestors and the future Jewish community, "Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow." We focus on nurturing our community, elevating the VTT experience, broadening horizons, and building bridges to positively impact others. I hope our alumni will continue to return as we educate the next generation and foster the pride and resilience of the Jewish people
May we go from strength to strength,
Emily Greenberg VTT's Head of School
The Numbers
L’Dor v’dor
Admissions
Families are proud VTT alumni
Number of families in 2024/25, an increase of 19 from the previous year
Number of students in 2024/25, an increase of 44 from the previous year
Tornadoes Sports
Students participated in Tornadoes Athletics
Extracurricular Activities
Students engage in daily after-school activities
MA ' AYAN HATIKVAH
FOUNTAIN OF HOPE
As the first anniversary of October 7th approached, our VTT community sought a meaningful way to remember those whose lives were tragically affected What emerged was Ma'ayan Hatikvah (Fountain of Hope); a living memorial where current and future generations could gather to remember, reflect, draw strength and find hope
The memorial fountain, now a serene centrepiece in our playground, stands as a testament to our community's resilience and unity in the face of profound loss "On October 7th our collective heart changed forever," reads the inscription at the fountain. "We remember the souls and lives impacted. From their courage, we draw strength to unite through resilience and compassion. May this fountain serve as a source of healing and renewal a circle of life flowing with hope and peace. "
The project was truly a community effort. Every family was invited to participate with a minimum donation of $18 a number symbolizing life in Jewish tradition. Our Parent Action Chavurah (PAC) jumpstarted the initiative with a generous $1,000 contribution, demonstrating their commitment to this sacred undertaking.
The VTT community was able to install the fountain in time for the first anniversary of October 7th, allowing students, staff, alumni, and families to begin drawing strength from it immediately During the memorial assembly, the community gathered to officially unveil Ma'ayan Hatikvah and honour those whose lives were forever changed
The memorial fountain now serves as a daily reminder of k'lal Israel the unity of the Jewish people and the courage demonstrated during our most challenging times As water continuously flows, so too does the memory of those impacted continue to influence and inspire our community.
Ma'ayan Hatikvah has quickly become integrated into our students' spiritual practice as they engaged in the meaningful tradition of Tashlich. Each child took a moment to reflect on the past year by writing down a personal note on a coffee filter. In a symbolic act of renewal, they cast their filters into the fountain, watching as their words were washed away by the water embracing the opportunity to start fresh for the new Jewish year. This beautiful adaptation of an ancient ritual demonstrates how our memorial has already become a living, evolving centerpiece of Jewish learning and spiritual growth at VTT, serving both as a space for remembrance and as a source of renewal and hope for our community.
Over the years, VTT has made multiple attempts to relocate the existing chain link fence that guards our playground from the busy Oak Street, all of which were opposed by the City of Vancouver As the Covid-19 pandemic settled in, and the need for additional outdoor learning spaces became vital for the health and safety of our faculty and students, VTT’s Head of School, Emily Greenberg, decided to make a further attempt at securing a permit from the City and was successful. The successful permit application marked an important milestone for our school community and presented a unique opportunity to reimagine VTT’s playground.
Thanks to the leadership of Michaela Singerman, a proud VTT alumna and current parent, construction to our playground took place in summer 2022 and was ready for student use for the 2022/23 school year Michaela worked tirelessly to spearhead the fundraising efforts associated with covering the entire cost of the project
The playground extension project involved significant enhancements and modifications. The existing transparent chain link fence was replaced with an artificial foliage fencing system, increasing privacy and security on campus while shielding our children from sight lines on Oak
Jason & Jen Apple | Marni & Daniel Bar Dayan | Talia & Josh Bender
Elana, Oren and Yoni Bick | Ryan & Haley Davis | Jaclyn & James Dayson
Arnold & Susan Fine | Jewish Community Foundation | Howie & Simone Kallner
Robert & Marilyn Krell | Stacey & Jory Levitt | Harry & Elaine Lipetz/Tybie & Luca Caratii
Avery Mann | Nicole Mann | Shawna Merkur | Andrew Merkur | Yvonne & George Rosenberg
Matthew & Dana Ross | Daniel Schwartz | Ben & Alina Silverman
Matthew & Michaela Singerman | Matt & Martha Switzer | Ian & Judy Weinstein
Mordechai Wosk | Yosef Wosk | Barend & Judy Zack | VTT PAC
Vancouver Jewish Community Garden Vancouver Jewish Community Garden
CULTIVATE COMMUNITY • HARVEST HOPE • NOURISH KNOWLEDGE
In a heartwarming display of community collaboration and unwavering dedication, the Vancouver Jewish Community Garden has officially sprung to life As a much-anticipated follow-up to our previous coverage in the inaugural alumni magazine, we are thrilled to report that the garden is now a living testament to the power of collective effort
From its initial conception to the final touches, the construction of the Vancouver Jewish Community Garden was a journey marked by unity, camaraderie, and a shared vision What began as renderings on paper has transformed into a lush, vibrant haven that brings people together and nurtures not only plants but also relationships.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this endeavour was the wholehearted participation of every single VTT student, from Rishonim to Grade 7. It was an inspiring sight to witness these young minds, armed with shovels and a deep sense of purpose, actively engaging in the creation of the garden. By involving the students in the building process, the project not only fostered a connection to the garden but also instilled values of cooperation, sustainability, and communal involvement.
The garden's construction was a collaborative effort that involved many members of the Jewish community The dedication of time, effort, and resources showcased the community's strong commitment to projects that promote connection and growth The garden serves as a reminder that even in our fast-paced digital age, physical spaces can serve as bridges that unite generations and create lasting memories
The Vancouver Jewish Community Garden proudly celebrated its highly successful grand opening in May 2023. Over 250 community members of all ages including students, families, congregants, and individuals from across the wider Jewish community came together for a vibrant and memorable day. The event was filled with joy and excitement, offering a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy, including hands-on planting workshops, DIY wooden planter building, ISTEAM educational sessions, and collaborative banner painting. Live music filled the air, adding to the festive atmosphere, and guests were treated to complimentary food as they explored the new garden space
The grand opening was more than just a celebration it was a powerful expression of the community’s shared commitment to nurturing Jewish values, strengthening intergenerational connections, and fostering environmental stewardship. It was a moment of pride, unity, and hope, setting the tone for the garden’s role as a vibrant hub for learning, connection, and growth.
The grand opening marked just the beginning. Since then, the garden has continued to blossom with a growing calendar of programs, workshops, volunteer opportunities, and seasonal events, strengthening its role as a cornerstone of our community life
Harvest of Gratitude
We sincerely expresses our heartfelt gratitude to those who played a vital role in bringing the Vancouver Jewish Community Garden to life.
DIAMOND FOUNDATION
RONALD S. ROADBURG FOUNDATION
JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER VANCOUVER IN PARTNERSHIP WITH JEWISH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Isaac and Judy Thau
Anonymous
Mrs. Rose Marie Glassman
Josh, Marla, Jack and Ella Pekarsky
Marlene and Norman Franks
West Coast Seeds
Brett and Jacci Sandler
Yosef Wosk Family Foundation
Martin and Louise Wright, Benjamin, Leigh and Liam Houta
There’s still time to contribute towards this meaningful project! Please contact Noy Mika at nmika@talmudtorah.com to make your gift today.
The Vancouver Jewish Community Garden was established in 2020 through a collaborative effort by Vancouver Talmud Torah, Congregation Beth Israel, and Jewish Family Services and made possible by the Diamond Foundation The Diamond Foundation secured a long-term lease of this land for future development and is allowing the land to be used on a temporary basis We are grateful to the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver in partnership with the Jewish Community Foundation and the Ronald S Roadburg Foundation for their significant financial seed gifts
Alumni Perk Program
VTT’s Development team is reaching out with an exciting opportunity to support our beloved school while connecting local businesses with our extensive alumni community.
This special initiative will connect our alumni with community-owned businesses through exclusive offers, discounts, and perks Our goal is to broaden our sense of community beyond the walls of VTT while benefiting our alumni and supporting community-based businesses.
Here are some ways you can take part in this initiative:
Offer a Discount: Provide a special discount on your products or services exclusively for VTT alumni. This could be a percentage off, a buy-one-get-one offer, or any other creative discount you feel comfortable offering.
Exclusive Offers and Perks: Extend unique perks or privileges to alumni, such as free upgrades, priority access, or exclusive services Show our alumni the added value of their connection to VTT
Make a Connection: Work for an amazing company? Consider relaying this opportunity to enhance brand visibility and loyalty to your company decision-makers.
All businesses partaking in this initiative will be featured in our annual Mishpacha magazine, on our website and via our social media platforms, exposing your brand to a highly engaged audience.
Thank you for considering this request and for your continued support of our alma mater. By joining forces, we can strengthen our Alumni community while empowering and promoting each other’s businesses
Together, let's harness the power of collaboration to create a dynamic community where lasting relationships and shared achievements thrive.
To learn more about this initiative and to join us, please reach out to Noy Mika at nmika@talmudtorah.com
Q&A with Lyora Nifco
Q4: What are some of the key milestones and activities that students experience in their early years at VTT?
At VTT, our youngest learners celebrate significant developmental milestones through hands-on experiences They participate in their first Kabbalat Shabbat, create personal Havdalah sets, and learn Hebrew through song and movement. Children develop autonomy through classroom responsibilities and collaborative problemsolving. Annual highlights include our Hanukkah celebration, Tu B'Shvat planting, and classroom Passover seder. These concrete, joyful experiences cultivate both independence and a sense of belonging within our Jewish community.
Q5: How has the Early Childhood program evolved over the past years, and what exciting developments can our alumni look forward to in the near future?
Since 2009, our program has transformed from half-day preschool classes to a comprehensive full-day curriculum in both Judaics and general studies We've expanded Junior Kindergarten to full-day, added flexible options for Rishonim, and upgraded our facilities with child-sized washrooms and a dedicated playground. Most recently, we ' ve extended aftercare hours to 5:00 p.m., offering greater flexibility for working families while maintaining our commitment to quality early childhood education.
Q6: Could you share a heartwarming story or memorable moment that perfectly captures the spirit of the Early Childhood program?
At our Junior Kindergarten Kabbalat Shabbat with grandparents, a student spontaneously expressed love to his zeyde while a great-grandfather recited kiddush from memory Seeing generations connect through shared traditions children singing proudly beside their elders, beautifully embodied "mi Dor le dor," capturing the essence of our multigenerational, family-centered program.
Paws with Purpose: VTT's Therapy Dog Team
At VTT, education extends beyond textbooks and lessons—it includes wet noses, wagging tails, and the unconditional love of our four certified therapy dogs who have become cherished members of our school community.
Mojo: Rescued by Head of School Emily Greenberg and her family at just 12 weeks old during the Fort Nelson fires, Mojo has found his forever home at VTT. This gentle Mastiff mix was lovingly mentored by our late comfort dog Phoenix before her passing. Now 16 months old and freshly certified, Mojo is gradually becoming a regular presence in our hallways, bringing comfort and joy to students and staff alike. Soon, he'll extend his service to young patients at Children's Hospital. His favourite treats? Carrots and belly rubs!
Grit: Jennifer Shecter's seven-year-old golden Labrador makes his home in the main office, where he's always available to offer comfort, hugs and cuddles especially to students visiting the first aid room. With his mellow, easygoing temperament, Grit happily connects with everyone he meets and particularly enjoys visiting classrooms during reading time. Often found greeting families at the front of the school each morning, this gentle soul brings smiles throughout the day, with one smitten student remarking, "He just makes me so happy!"
Milly: Marni Segal's 11-year-old hypoallergenic Cockapoo, Milly, brings warmth to the Diamond Foundation Learning Lab in the Grade 1 wing every Tuesday and Thursday. With her distinctive waddle that makes everyone smile, Milly rolls over for dogs of all sizes and saves her greatest affection for children. Her gentle nature has become an invaluable support for students in the English Language Learners program, creating a comfortable atmosphere while spreading joy to everyone she encounters.
Motek: Director of Judaics Dar Goldenberg's energetic Labradoodle, Motek (meaning "sweetie" in Hebrew), divides his time between VTT and volunteering at BC Children's Hospital Situated in the Grade 6 & 7 neighbourhood most Wednesdays and Fridays, this playful ball-chaser brings joy to our senior intermediate wing while embodying the Jewish value of chesed (kindness) throughout the school.
on was also evident in her own academic pursuits. A graduate of VTT, she furthered her studies in Hebrew in Israel and later obtained her teaching degree from UBC. Even after becoming a mother, she pursued a Master's degree, demonstrating her relentless drive for personal growth and excellence.
Her influence extended beyond the classroom Hildy worked tirelessly with various organizations, including Canuck Place, and was instrumental in founding the JFS Innovator’s Lunch. She was also a disciple of Reuven Feuerstein z”l, advocating for his methodologies to help children become more effective learners
The Hildy Barnett Wellness Centre is a testament to her enduring legacy. It reflects her belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and nurtured Hildy’s work with children, her travels, and her unyielding support for her family and community have left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
As we inaugurate this wellness centre, we honour Hildy's memory and her vision of a supportive, inclusive environment for all students. Her legacy will continue to inspire us to see the beauty in every child and to foster a community where kindness and education go hand in hand. In loving memory of Hildy Barnett, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever enrich our school community
On Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023 over 75 VTT Alumni unleashed a whirlwind of fun, laughter, and a healthy dose of nostalgia at the first alumni gathering in years!
For many of our guests, it was a trip down memory lane – or rather, the hallways Most hadn't set foot on campus since they tossed their graduation caps into the air, so we decided to spice things up with some tours The "Oh, I remember that spot!" exclamations were music to our ears as alumni reacquainted themselves with the old and discovered the new The tours turned the event into a live-action time machine, complete with shared stories and plenty of "back in my day" tales.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our co-chairs, Brent Davis and Justin Segal, whose incredible dedication and exemplary leadership were instrumental in ensuring the event's resounding success.
We look forward to future opportunities to gather and continue fostering the sense of unity and pride that comes with being part of the VTT family
The Jewish L'Dor V'Dor: Celebrating
Leo Lercher
Maverick Turner Savinkoff Born November 2023
Proud Parents: Leatt Vinegar & Anthony Savinkoff
Anna Elizabeth Weinstein Born January 2024
Proud Parents: Emma (nee Vinnitsky) & Matthew Weinstein
Asher Sidney Coleman Born July 2024
Proud Parents: Paulina (nee Erg & Alex Coleman
Olivia Betty & Eden Danielle Hor Born March 2023 & August 20
Proud Parents: Jenna (nee Korsun & Avi Horwitz
Mia Ruby Powell Born September 2024
Proud Parents: Denise (nee Davis) & Colton Powell
Leon Henry Krell Born September 2024
Proud Parents: Samantha Zlotnik & Lewis Krell
Baby Boom
Tomorrow's Leaders
Jacob William Segal Born December 2024
Proud Parents: Tori (nee Simons) & Dylan Segal
Ethan Aaron Glotman Born October 2024
Proud Parents: Jordana & Harrison Glotman
Eli Jonathan Samuel Born October 2024
Proud Parents: Lucy (nee Adirim) & Jon Samuel
Bella Lucy Grossman Born February 2024
Proud Parents: Arielle (nee Jackson) & Max Grossman
Rafaela Juliana Segal Born March 2024
Proud Parents: Yael & Justin Segal
Julian Hertzel Feinstein Born April 2024
Proud Parents: Melody & Ben Feinstein
Arielle Pearl von Saarn Born July 2024
Proud Parents: Cara Katz & Chris von Saarn
2024 Graduating Class
Justin Abramson - ןתנוי
Isla Adirim - הכרב
Geula Ahisar - הלואג
Billie Alterman - יליב
Jacob Apple - בקעי
Abigail Azuelos - ליגיבא
Farah Berkson - חרפ
Jaya Berkson - הנידע
Noah Bichin - חנ
Leora Bick - הרואיל
Aidan Brown - ןדיע
Judah Carr - הדוהי
Eli Chodos - הילא
Sofia Delgado Woitschach - לעי
Ilan Feldman - ןליא
Leo Finkleman - בל
Benjamin Frankel - ןימינב
Sophie Fransblow - הרש
Jonah Gardner - הנוי
Olivia Glasner - הליב
Chloe Grad - הנח
Naiya Greenberg - ןייעמ
Alma Haim - המלע
Oscar Henderson - רשוא
Benjamin Jacobson - ןימינב
Kingston Johnson-Gorenstein -עישי
Maksim Khaylis - השמ
Eytan Kotik - ןתיא
Gabriella Levitt - הלאירבג
Jules Malkin - לעי
Avi Margalit - יבא
Alma Mishaal - המלע
Emily Myers - לחר
Lioz-Sunny Naaman - זועיל
Elliana Remick - הנעילא
Naret Reznikova - תירונ
Navah Rootman - הואנ
Isabella Ross - הלייב
Liam Ross - םעיל
Cole Silver - יש
Aaron Stefanov - ןורהא
Sienna Sutton - הנח
Liana Szuchman Pustilnick - רתסא
Maayan Vasquez David - ןייעמ
Millie Weinstein - המירפ-היאמ
Jacob Wolak - םירפא
Max Yasser - ילתפנ
Grab Your Pens and Dive In!
Q7: How many years has Ms. Leisen served as the art specialist at VTT?
A: 28 years
B: 30 years
C: 34 years
D: 36 years
Q9: Besides Israel, which foreign region is most represented at VTT this year?
A: South Africa
B: United States
C: Eastern Europe
D: South America
Q11: What is the name of the VTT alumni mag?
A: Dash Magazine
B: Mishpacha Magazine
C: Zichronot Magazine
D: Nakhes News
Q8: What is the student enrollment at VTT for 2024/2025?
A: 460
B: 496
C: 539
D: 523
Q10: What was the final cost of the 2016 campus upgrade?
A: 22 million
B: 26 million
C: 28 million
D: 32 million
Q12: What is the name of VTT’s mascot?
A: Moshe the Mensch
B: Toby Torah
C: Shalom Shlomo
D: Torah Tabby
VTT has been a home to generations of students, staff, educators, and families who have passed through its doors Each individual who graced these halls is an integral piece of our unique puzzle, leaving a lasting impression on the fabric of our school's identity
As alumni, your journey doesn't end with graduation; rather, it transforms into a new chapter of engagement and involvement. Your connection to this institution remains, and you continue to be a vital part of our thriving community.
Your Piece, Your Impact: We invite you to consider the role of your piece within the bigger picture. Just as a puzzle is incomplete without all its pieces, our alumni community thrives when each member contributes their unique talents, experiences, and resources.
Volunteer: Are you willing to volunteer your time and expertise to help current students? Whether you can mentor a student, lead a workshop, or assist in organizing an alumni event, your involvement is vital to the completion of our puzzle
Donate: Supporting our school financially is another piece of the puzzle. Your contributions can help us provide scholarships, improve facilities, and enhance educational programs, making a significant impact on the lives of current and future students.
Participate: Join our events, reunions, and gatherings Your presence helps create a stronger sense of community, connecting your puzzle piece with others to form a more intricate and beautiful whole.
Share Your Story: Every piece has a story to tell. We want to hear about your accomplishments, adventures, and experiences since your time at VTT Sharing your story not only enriches our magazine but also inspires the next generation of students
For more information on how you can get involved, contact Noy Mika, Sr Development Officer at nmika@talmudtorah com
"Because of VTT, I will always have a safe place to go back to in the community that I've grown up in. One day, I will send my kids here so they can have the same amazing environment."
– Grade 7 Student
Vancouver Talmud Torah | 998 West 26th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2G1 | talmudtorah com