VTT ANNUAL REPORT 2022-2023
Vancouver Talmud Torah 998 W 26th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2G1 604.736.7307 | talmudtorah.com | info@talmudtorah.com
Fall 2023
Dear VTT Community, Now, more than ever, our families and Vancouver’s Jewish community are leaning on the strength of VTT to guide the way through a dark time in our history. Outside of the walls of our school, many challenges have surfaced with the war in Israel, but what is happening in our halls is the very antidote we need to the anti-semitism we have all witnessed over these last several weeks. Nurturing the Jewish neshama of our students has never been more important and we are doubling down on these efforts in every way. Contained in these pages is a reflection of the 2022-23 fiscal year. It is important to mention that VTT was able to close out its mortgage by restructuring and paying down existing debt over the last four years. The elimination of this debt will allow us to focus entirely on the student experience and our goals for improvement that will continue to catapult VTT into the future. As we forge ahead through our ambitious five-year strategic plan, the board and leadership are confident that VTT is well-positioned to continue to grow, protect and nurture our students and, by proxy, our community. We are grateful for your investment in VTT and our school community where tradition meets tomorrow! B’Shalom,
Emily Greenberg Head of School
Fall 2023
Alissa Rogachevsky Board Chair
Annual Revenues
Annual Expenses
Other Revenues 8.6%
Operations & Educational Programs 13.5%
Fundraising/Grants 6.8%
Building and Facilities 5.5%
Subsidies 24.9% Net Tuition Revenue 59.8%
Staff Salaries 81%
**Subsidies include Ministry of Education funding.
**Education programs include curriculum, school programming, professional development, student supplies, etc.
**Other revenues includes vendor commissions & rental fees
**Operations expenses include security costs, professional service fees, community events, etc.
Fall 2023
Tuition & Affordability # of families supported 122
Total TAC + AP $1,881,200
Families with students in SK to Grade 7 are eligible for tuition subsidies or discounts from the Affordability Program (AP). The average award for the AP program was $3,157 per student.
Fall 2023
% of students on TAC/AP 42%
# of students supported 179
Average TAC per student $14,702
Program Highlights Lego Robotics Our inaugural Lego Robotics team showcased exceptional dedication and talent, culminating in VTT securing two prestigious awards: The Coach/Mentor Award for Ms. Sims and the Breakthrough Award.
Stable Harvest Farms The new biblical garden initiative intertwines Judaics with hands-on learning about the land, drawing connections to Indigenous teachings. The garden’s use of Israeli-made drip irrigation showcases the innovative spirit of this Start-Up Nation.
After-School Programs With over 25 weekly offerings, our after-school programs support our families by extending the day in a fun, safe and enriching setting. Popular courses include coding, skateboarding, mixed-media art, speech, chess, photography, and sports.
Fall 2023
Program Highlights JNF Educators’ Mission to Israel VTT proudly sent six faculty members, including four first-time visitors, to Israel in July 2023. This immersive experience infused a new zeal for shaping impactful Israel and ISTEAM education at VTT.
Vancouver Jewish Community Garden This collaboration between VTT, CBI and JFS was made possible by the Diamond Foundation who secured a long-term lease of this land and is allowing it to be used on a temporary basis. Thank you to the JFGV in partnership with the JCF and the Roadburg Foundation for their significant financial seed gifts. The VJCG provides hands-on learning and exemplifies a commitment to education, sustainability, and community engagement.
Tornadoes Athletics VTT raised its athletic profile by joining ISABC’s athletic league, ISEA. Our athletes competed in soccer, volleyball, basketball, track & field, cross country and ultimate frisbee, winning multiple gold titles in soccer.
Fall 2023
Program Highlights Learning Resource & Emotional Support We endeavour to support a broad spectrum of learners at VTT. In addition to facilitating on-site tutoring services, we provide early reading screening to track literacy readiness in the primary years. VTT proudly employs two fulltime counsellors to address students’ social-emotional needs.
Torah Titans Throughout the academic year, Grades 2 & 3 students participated in the weekly Torah Titans club, led by Rabbi Varnai during Fridays at lunch. Torah Titans aimed to foster a deeper understanding of our rich Jewish traditions by presenting lessons and wisdom in a fun, engaging and developmentallytailored approach.
ISTEAM After three weeks filled with anticipation and dedicated care from our curious students, last spring seven adorable baby chicks temporarily joined the VTT family. Led by Tamsin Morrell, VTT’s ISTEAM Coordinator, students had the opportunity to observe 24/7 the life cycle of a chicken from egg to hatchery--and all that happens in between!
Fall 2023
Fast Facts
77% of Graduates went onto King David High School
: Fall 2023
of par % e 0 4
Over 260 students participated in Tornadoes Athletics
VTT teacher to student ratio
74
Comfort Pets
a
Retention Rate for 2023-24
e Canad sid
r s bo n out t n
Families are proud VTT alumni
Peta & Paz
Phoenix