2025 - Mishpacha Magazine - Final

Mishpacha Magazine Vancouver Talmud Torah's Alumni Updates Spring 2025

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)

Table of Contents 02

Greetings

03

Highlights by the Numbers

05

Ma’ayan Hatikvah, VTT’s Fountain of Hope

07

Preserving the Past, Securing the Future

09

Vancouver Jewish Community Garden

14

Alumni Perk Program

15

Havodat HaLev: Q&A with Lyora Nifco

19

A Beacon of Compassion and Education

21

VTT Alumni Stand Together

23

The Jewish Baby Boom

25

2023 + 2024 Grad Classes

27

How Well Do You Know VTT?

29

Join the Puzzle

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

Highlights By

Retention Rate

2023-24 School Year

2024-25 School Year

Jewish Continuity

of Graduates went onto King David High School

Diverse Community

of VTT parents were born outside of Canada - doubled from 3 years ago

Tuition & Affordability

Families with students in SK to Grade 7 qualified for tuition subsidies or discounts. This total reflects the amounts awarded through the Tuition Assistance and Affordability Program for the 2024/25 school year.

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

Students engage in daily after-school activities

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.

Preserving the past Securing the future

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

current

parent,

community and presented a unique opportunity to reimagine VTT’s playground.

Thanks

to

the

leadership

of

Michaela

Singerman,

a

proud

VTT

alumna

and

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

existing

extension

transparent

chain

project link

involved

fence

was

significant replaced

enhancements

with

an

artificial

and

modifications.

foliage

fencing

The

system,

increasing privacy and security on campus, while shielding our children from sight lines on Oak Street. Two emergency exit gates and a 25' swing gate were installed for convenient school bus access and student safety.

The fence expansion added an impressive 3,500 square feet of play space, accommodating various activities for students throughout the day. Two 4-square games were included in the extended area, promoting interactive physical play.

The removal of an existing mound in the middle of the playground freed up 1,786 square feet of outdoor space, creatively repurposed into a 25x25 gaga court, fulfilling the students' aspirations.

Additionally, the historic 1948 entrance was enclosed within the new fence, preserving nostalgia and pride within our school community.

On behalf of the entire VTT family, we extend a heartfelt todah rabah to our generous donors who made this dream a reality.

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 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

community.

construction

The

was

dedication

of

a

collaborative

time,

effort,

effort

and

that

involved

resources

many

showcased

members the

of

the

Jewish

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.

As the second harvest season wraps up and a new one begins, the Vancouver Jewish Community Garden has already made a remarkable and positive impact, even in its early stages of development. The garden’s abundant harvests have contributed to nutritious meals and food bags for those in need, demonstrating its immediate and tangible role in addressing food insecurity. As the garden flourishes and grows, it continues to foster hope, resilience, and community connection.

This past February 2025, we proudly held our first Day of Giving campaign, raising $50,000 to support this year’s upcoming harvest season — an incredible milestone that will help expand our impact even further.

We are also excited to share that the garden is now available for community rentals. To inquire about renting the space for events or gatherings, please contact Tovah Carr at Congregation Beth Israel.

Looking ahead, our vision is to continue to nurture this vibrant community hub that fosters lifelong learning, environmental stewardship, and meaningful connection.

By fostering a sense of shared responsibility and ownership, we are committed to ensuring that the Vancouver Jewish Community Garden remains a cherished space for generations to come.

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

Avodat HaLev:

Q1: As the Early Childhood Director, what inspired you to work in early childhood education and join the VTT community?

My inspiration for early childhood education stems from my family’s legacy—my mother ran a Montessori school for over 40 years. My Jewish background and education fostered my sense of community. After teaching at a Jewish school in Mexico and working in Montessori education in Canada, I joined VTT in 2009, seeking that community connection I missed. Since becoming Early Childhood Director in 2014, VTT has become my second family, where I'm honoured to nurture our youngest learners in an environment of love and support.

Q2: Can you tell us what makes the Early Childhood program at VTT unique and why it's such a special place for our youngest learners?

VTT's Early Childhood program offers a nurturing community with an exceptionally stable team—many educators have been with us for over 7 years, half for more than 13. Our dual curriculum balances play-based learning with personalized attention, supporting each child's holistic development. We create dynamic environments for exploration and discovery, making early learning both joyful and meaningful.

Q3: How does the Early Childhood program at VTT help foster a strong foundation for lifelong learning and a connection to Jewish traditions?

VTT's Early Childhood program establishes lifelong learning foundations and Jewish connections through seamless integration with later grades. Most students remain at VTT for a decade, benefiting from consistent values and teachings throughout their formative years, which deepens their understanding of Jewish traditions and commitment to continuous learning.

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.

Q7: Can you describe the collaborative approach taken by teachers, parents, and the community to make the Early Childhood program thrive?

Our program thrives through genuine partnership between educators, families, and community. Parents enrich our curriculum by sharing cultural traditions and supporting classroom activities. Community connections, like visits to parent-owned businesses, extend learning beyond our walls. Teachers maintain open communication through weekly newsletters and regular conversations, creating a supportive ecosystem where everyone shares responsibility for each child's development.

Q8: Do you have any advice for parents who are considering enrolling their children in the Early Childhood program at VTT or for alumni who are now parents themselves?

Join our mishpacha—a true community where your family will be warmly welcomed. Beyond excellent education, VTT offers belonging and connection, celebrating each child's individuality while fostering meaningful relationships.

Having cousins or friends already here enriches the experience, creating opportunities for shared joy and growth. VTT provides continuity that extends beyond the classroom, building foundations for lifelong friendships for both children and parents alike.

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.

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Hildy Barnett A

B E A C O N

O F

C O M P A S S I O N

A N D

E D U C A T I O N

In a world that can sometimes feel indifferent, Hildy Barnett was a shining example of compassion and care. Her recent passing has left many of us with heavy hearts, but her legacy lives on through the new Hildy Barnett Wellness Centre at our school. Thanks to Hildy’s generous donation, this centre will provide a

welcoming

space

for

our

guidance

counsellors

and

students,

reflecting

her

deep

belief

in

the

potential and goodness of every child.

Hildy's career with the Board of Education spanned over 30 years, during which time she made a lasting impact on hundreds of children. Whether it was organizing penny drives for the Variety Club or founding the Teen Award and Recognition Night at the Jewish Community Centre (JCC), Hildy's efforts were always

aimed

at

nurturing

community

leadership

and

supporting

youth.

Her

innovative

approach

extended to international settings as well, such as when she spent hours teaching English to children in Cuba while waiting for a bus.

Hildy’s dedication to education 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.

VTT Alumni

Stand Together

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

shared

live-action stories

time

and

machine,

plenty

of

complete

"back

in

my

with day"

tales.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our co-chairs, Brent Davis

and

Justin

dedication

and

instrumental

in

Segal,

exemplary

ensuring

the

whose

incredible

leadership event's

were

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.

Leo Lercher Born October 2023 Proud Parents: Talia Glassman & Jon 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

The Jewish Asher Sidney Coleman Born July 2024 Proud Parents: Paulina (nee Ergas) & Alex Coleman

Olivia Betty & Eden Danielle Horwitz Born March 2023 & August 2024 Proud Parents: Jenna (nee Korsunsky) & Avi Horwitz

L'Dor V'Dor: Celebrating

Leon Henry Krell Born September 2024 Proud Parents: Samantha Zlotnik & Lewis Krell

Mia Ruby Powell Born September 2024 Proud Parents: Denise (nee Davis) & Colton Powell

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

Baby Boom Tomorrow's Leaders

Eli Jonathan Samuel Born October 2024 Proud Parents: Lucy (nee Adirim) & Jon Samuel

Ethan Aaron Glotman Born October 2024 Proud Parents: Jordana & Harrison Glotman

Arielle Pearl von Saarn Born July 2024 Proud Parents: Cara Katz & Chris von Saarn

Jacob William Segal Born December 2024 Proud Parents: Tori (nee Simons) & Dylan Segal

2023 Graduating Class

‫חנה‬ ‫יונתן‬ Liam Arazi - ‫ליאם‬ Ayla Averbach - ‫טובה‬ Hailey Bar-Dayan - ‫חוה‬ Aria Bender - ‫אריה‬ Gaya Berger - ‫גאיה‬ Sophia Bloch - ‫חנה‬ Kacey Crooks - ‫כלילה‬ Ilai David - ‫עילי‬ Maia Fennemore - ‫מאיה‬ Leo Frankel - ‫אריה‬ Chana Franken - ‫חנה‬ Ari Froelich - ‫ארי‬ Lia Gadassi - ‫ליה‬ Evan Greif - ‫רפאל‬ Eyal Grunau - ‫אייל‬ Jake Hain - ‫יהושוע‬ Annabel Amit -

Jonathan Appelberg -

‫משה‬ ‫יעקב‬ Madelyn Hayden - ‫שושנה‬ Brody Israels - ‫ירחמיאל‬ Abrianna Jacobs - ‫אבריאנה‬ Jake Jampolsky - ‫יונה נתן‬ Michelle Kucherenko - ‫מיכל‬ Ty Leipsic - ‫ברוך‬ David Levinson - ‫דויד‬ Charlie Lewis - ‫שאול‬ Eli Markovich - ‫אילאי‬ Liam Marshall - ‫ליעם‬ Ruby McNamara - ‫רובי‬ Moises Harari -

Cristobal Moctezuma Peralta -

‫אריאלה‬ Leahie Oren - ‫ליהיא‬ Carrie Plotkin - ‫מיכל‬

Ariela Ofri Coba -

‫אשר‬ ‫ניבה‬ Joseph Rogen - ‫יוסף‬ Joshua Rosenzweig - ‫יהושוע‬ Ethan Ross - ‫איתן‬ Emma Rossman - ‫אסתר‬ Samuel Rothstein - ‫שמואל‬ Jack Schwartz - ‫יעקב‬ Braxton Shapiro - ‫יוסף‬ Daniel Simsilevich - ‫דניאל‬ Jackson Thal - ‫רענן‬ Ilana Toyber - ‫אילנה‬ Davis van den Berg - ‫עקיבא‬ Itamar Vule - ‫איתמר‬ Levi Wilansky - ‫לוי‬ Aron Wirth - ‫אהרון‬ Leroy Yona - ‫רוי‬ Sofiia Zubrys - ‫סופיה‬ Asher Rajanayagam -

Jacob Hawley -

Eva Rogachevsky -

‫יובל‬

2024 Graduating Class

‫יונתן‬ ‫ברכה‬ Geula Ahisar - ‫גאולה‬ Billie Alterman - ‫בילי‬ Jacob Apple - ‫יעקב‬ Abigail Azuelos - ‫אביגיל‬ Farah Berkson - ‫פרח‬ Jaya Berkson - ‫עדינה‬ Noah Bichin - ‫נח‬ Leora Bick - ‫ליאורה‬ Aidan Brown - ‫עידן‬ Judah Carr - ‫יהודה‬ Eli Chodos - ‫אליה‬

‫בנימין‬ Alma Mishaal - ‫עלמה‬ ‫שרה‬ Emily Myers - ‫רחל‬ Jonah Gardner - ‫יונה‬ Lioz-Sunny Naaman - ‫ליעוז‬ Olivia Glasner - ‫בילה‬ Elliana Remick - ‫אליענה‬ Chloe Grad - ‫חנה‬ Naret Reznikova - ‫נורית‬ Naiya Greenberg - ‫מעיין‬ Navah Rootman - ‫נאוה‬ Alma Haim - ‫עלמה‬ Isabella Ross - ‫ביילה‬ Oscar Henderson - ‫אושר‬ Liam Ross - ‫ליעם‬ Benjamin Jacobson - ‫בנימין‬ Cole Silver - ‫שי‬ Kingston Johnson-Gorenstein -‫ישיע‬ Aaron Stefanov - ‫אהרון‬ Maksim Khaylis - ‫משה‬ Sienna Sutton - ‫חנה‬ Eytan Kotik - ‫איתן‬ Liana Szuchman Pustilnick - ‫אסתר‬ Gabriella Levitt - ‫גבריאלה‬ Maayan Vasquez David - ‫מעיין‬ Sofia Delgado Woitschach - ‫יעל‬ Jules Malkin - ‫יעל‬ Millie Weinstein - ‫פרימה‬-‫מאיה‬ Ilan Feldman - ‫אילן‬ Avi Margalit - ‫אבי‬ Jacob Wolak - ‫אפרים‬ Leo Finkleman - ‫ֵלב‬ Max Yasser - ‫נפתלי‬ Justin Abramson -

Benjamin Frankel -

Isla Adirim -

Sophie Fransblow -

Test Your VTT Knowledge

Q1: What year was VTT's first graduating class?

A: 1953 B: 1954 C: 1956 D: 1958

Q2: How many students were in VTT’s largest graduating class?

A: 59 B: 60 C: 63 D: 75

Q3: Who holds the record as VTT’s longestserving teacher?

A: Fred Cohen B: Loris Cohen C: Eric Lee D: Gita Kron

Q4: When was the completion year of VTT's new campus?

A: 2014 B: 2015 C: 2016 D: 2017

Q5: How many heads of schools has VTT had?

A: 18 B: 20 C: 21 D: 27

Q6: Can you name VTT’s 4 house teams?

A: Esther, Devorah, Moshe and David B: Esther, Sarah, Jacob, David C: Miriam, Esther, Moshe, Jacob D: Devorah, Esther, Moshe, Samuel

A :6Q | D :5Q | C :4Q | D :3Q | C :2Q | B :1Q

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

Q8: What is the student enrollment at VTT for 2024/2025?

A: 460 B: 496 C: 539 D: 523

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

Q10: What was the final cost of the 2016 campus upgrade?

A: 22 million B: 26 million C: 28 million D: 32 million

Q11: What is the name of the VTT alumni mag?

A: Dash Magazine B: Mishpacha Magazine C: Zichronot Magazine D: Nakhes News

Q12: What is the name of VTT’s mascot?

A: Moshe the Mensch B: Toby Torah C: Shalom Shlomo D: Torah Tabby

B :21Q | B :11Q | C :01Q | B :9Q | C :8Q | C :7Q

Join the Puzzle: Your Piece Matters

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