HEAD OF SCHOOL NOTE
Thousands of years ago, when the Israelites were exiled to Babylon, they sat by the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers and remembered Zion. The historical memory of this moment is captured in Psalm 137. In the Psalm we are told that their captors asked the Israelites to sing, and they responded “How can we sing a song for the Lord on alien soil?”
This year, our world was uprooted by the awful events of October 7th and the ongoing war that has broken our hearts and spirits. We have held one another, absorbed half a dozen families from Israel, raised funds and stood up for our values and our community. And yet, as we work with students and young children, we understood early on in the war, that we too must continue to live a vibrant Jewish life at our school, filled with joy, curiosity, wonder, and care for one another.
The question, “How can we sing,” that our ancestors asked thousands of years ago, is exactly the same question we asked.
The question was answered by our children, families, and teachers. It was answered with the resolve to continue to learn that our students brought to the classroom every single day. It was answered with the genuine curiosity that was fostered by classroom communities that were generously cared for by our teachers and administrators. It was answered by the hundreds of volunteers that supported our school by serving lunch, showing appreciation to our professionals, families, and supporters.
The question, “How can we sing,” in the midst of a war, was answered by each of you, our generous supporters. In a year, when so many of our donors gave in unprecedented ways to causes in Israel and the many needs of our local communities here, giving to Wornick continued to increase.
And so, we sang, we continued to learn, we continued to meet the challenges of providing a safe and nurturing educational environment for our students. We sang and danced more, with our eyes and hearts turned to The East.
Our school, amidst the storm around us, has continued to strengthen. Teacher and student retention continues to improve. We have an exceptional group of educators and professionals who are committed to student growth, family belonging, and their own growth. We are using our resources to carefully plan for the future and secure a school that will thrive for decades to come so our students can continue to sing and thrive.
Adam Eilath, Head of School
BUILDING AN EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
Throughout the years at Wornick, an emphasis is placed on the sharing of ideas, collaborating to build something beyond what you could be capable of alone. When students are asked to communicate their ideas, gain feedback from a peer, reflect and revise their product, and work toward a final public product, they are growing the skills needed beyond the walls of school. Wornick teachers intentionally place students in mixed groupings, provide a structure for collaboration, and encourage students to engage with their peers in productive dialogue.
Whether it is in English Language Arts when they are writing and receiving peer and teacher feedback or presenting a business model to help their community, collaboration and reflection are two key strategies that encourage students to look broadly beyond their perspective and understanding and gain insights and knowledge that likely yield a more robust outcome.
3RD GRADE - STOP MOTION
This year, our 3rd graders took their writing to new heights with a course that began as a two-week exploration of how stories such as fables and fairy tales are shared across different cultures. They brainstormed various ways to present stories and ultimately decided on stop-motion animation.
Over six weeks, extending beyond general studies into our creative space,The Peleh Lab, our students transformed into writers, artists, producers, directors, and even filmmakers. They brought fairy tales to life through stop-motion movies, creating backgrounds, characters, and filming their projects. This course inspired our students to be more creative and encouraged them to communicate their ideas, resulting in passionate and engaging learning experiences.
Nicole Haire Assistant Head of School
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY - BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Wornick students actively explored Black history throughout February. Each grade level focused on different aspects of Black history, studying various historical figures and their contributions to society.
The TK/K and 5th grade students researched famous figures in Black history. 5th graders visited TK/K and engaged in interactive activities, comparing their learnings. Meanwhile, 1st graders chose influential historical figures to demonstrate how one person can make a significant impact on the future. Also studying heroes, 8th graders selected icons from the 1800s, decorating recycled cereal boxes with photos, quotes, and biographies to honor their contributions.
At the end of the month, we held a special expo in the Ulam Gadol where students presented their projects to each other organically. They spoke with pride about their work, learning from one another and sharing their findings. This collaborative effort showcased their enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and embracing diversity, underscoring Wornick as a vibrant learning community where students have a voice, can express their passions freely, and thrive in an engaging and supportive environment.
1ST / 3RD GRADE BUDDIES
“It was fun working with a younger student! It was like being a teacher. I got to make up a story with my partner and it was fun.”
During the first semester of school, 1A paired up with 3B to become reading buddies. They took turns reading to each other every week, helping to build their confidence, make friends in different grades, and support each other in their reading journeys.
In the second semester, once they felt comfortable with each other, they transitioned to writing buddies. They were given an assignment with guidelines to develop a creative writing story together, taking it through the entire writing process. Using graphic organizers for brainstorming and pre-writing, they created engaging hooks, developed characters, and crafted story arcs. They then moved on to drafting, with both students contributing to the writing. After completing two peer edits with other groups and participating in a teacher conference, they made their final edits and created a final draft with illustrations.
Their stories were compiled into a book titled “1A and 3B’s Amazing Stories.” The first graders were thrilled to see their work in a book, something they might not have accomplished on their own. The process also gave the third graders valuable leadership experience, as they taught the first graders about dialogue and key story elements, reinforcing their own learning. To celebrate, the class hosted an authors’ party where each group took turns sitting in the authors’ chairs at the front of the room to read their stories and share their illustrations with the class.
-Lia, 3rd Grader
8TH GRADE - ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Building on the foundation of social responsibility from their Tzedakah project, our 8th graders embarked on an exciting journey into the world of entrepreneurship. It began with an intense 3-day boot-camp where they received a crash course in launching a successful business.
Fueled by this knowledge, the students, in small teams , tackled real-world problems. They identified a pressing need in the community, brainstormed solutions that aligned with Jewish values, and aimed for a positive social impact. They carefully crafted their company values, fostered team dynamics, and assigned essential roles for each member. Next, they delved into market research. They pinpointed their ideal customer base, identified potential competitors, and even interviewed real people to understand their needs. Armed with this data, they crafted landing pages for their websites or apps before diving into prototyping. This involved creating conceptual models and 3D designs, bringing their ideas to life.
The student ventures were as diverse and inspiring as their passions. One team imagined a device that delivers clean drinking water while conserving water waste. Another group tackled a challenge closer to home, creating an app to help low-income families find affordable essentials in their area. Some students even conceptualized a product to revolutionize education, making it easier for classmates to grasp complex material and rediscover the joy of learning.
The culmination of this project came in a Shark Tank-style event. Here, students presented their business planscomplete with budgets and financial models - to a panel of judges acting as potential investors. The presentations highlighted how their inventions connected seamlessly with the Jewish values they embraced.
Throughout this project-based learning experience, students honed crucial skills like teamwork, empathy, and project management. They saw how classroom lessons translated to real-world applications, and the ability to bring their passion projects to life – from tackling hunger to providing mental health support for their peers.
“You go through a lot of steps that are very difficult, you fail a lot of times, sometimes your ideal plans don’t really go the way you want it to go and as an entrepreneur you need to be aware of that.” -Anna, 8th Grader
“Being an entrepreneur is great for the future. You learn life skills in the elective. It’s great for our future to be successful later in life.” -Berri, 8th Grader
WAGSHUL WONDERS - IMAGINE THE FUTURE
This year’s Wagshul Wonders issue explored the theme of “Imagine the Future.” Students from every grade level submitted artwork paired with written compositions, bringing their visions to life. Students imagined what life on Mars would be like in the future and brainstormed innovative ways to filter air through vibrant gardens. The artwork tackled diverse themes including the future of artificial intelligence and the environment. The cover piece, titled “Starry Night Remodeled,” was a collaborative effort by the 7th grade duo of Harrison and Kohl showcasing a world industrialized by humans with a hope of preserving nature. These young minds didn’t just imagine the future, they painted it, leaving us all inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.
FIELD TRIPS
20 FIELD TRIPS
Mother Lode Trip
4th Grade
Marin Headlands
5th Grade
Field trips are crucial for enhancing education beyond the confines of the classroom. By visiting museums, historical sites, and laboratories, students connect curriculum topics with real-world experiences. These outings promote active learning, deepen understanding of subjects like history, science, and the arts, and inspire students by exposing them to professionals and career possibilities. Field trips bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering curiosity and a lifelong passion for learning.
This year, our adventures unfolded both locally and across the United States. Day trips included visits to our local library, Bay Area synagogues, historical landmarks, and the planetarium. We also embarked on several overnight trips, including camping excursions to explore California’s Gold Rush history and visits to the American South to learn about the Civil Rights Movement first-hand. Additionally, expeditions to the Marin Headlands provided firsthand experience in environmental studies, while trips to New York City and Washington D.C. showered our students with culture and U.S. history. These experiences broadened our students’ horizons and enriched their understanding of various subjects.
“Our trip to the Woodside Store was so much fun. We got to see what is was like the live in the old days, like chopping wood and having to carry water on our backs. Everything was awesome!”
-Liam, 3rd Grader
FIELD TRIPS
Pinnacles Outdoor Education 6th Grade
Trip to the American South 7th Grade
New York and Washington D.C. 8th Grade
WORNICK ATHLETICS
The Wornick athletic program is a proud member of the Small Schools Intermediate League (SSIL). Athletics are a vital part of the Wornick experience for our 5th8th graders, aiming to nurture positive character traits through participation in competitive sports. At Wornick, student-athletes are placed in a physically and mentally challenging environment to help grow their confidence, as well as skills such as leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, and grit. Our program emphasizes inclusivity, respect, and a growth mindset, encouraging all students to join and supporting them through their coaches, teammates, and school community as they navigate each sports season. This season, our top ten tennis players reached the championship with 8th grader, Robyn placing first in the SSIL tournament. Both boys’ basketball and soccer teams qualified for playoffs. Go Rams!
ATHLETIC TEAMS
Cross Country (co-ed)
Golf (co-ed)
Tennis (co-ed)
Boys Basketball
Girls Basketball
Boys Soccer
Girls Soccer
Girls Volleyball
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2024
Recent Wornick alumni have attended the following high schools
• Aragon High School
• Burlingame High School
• Carlmont High School
• Castilleja School
• Crystal Springs Uplands
• Design Tech High School
• Everest High School
• Gunn High School
• Hillsdale High School
• Interlochen Arts Academy
• Jewish Community High School
• Kehillah Jewish High School
• Lick Wilmerding High School
• Lowell High School
• Menlo High School
• Millbrook School
• Notre Dame High School
• Nueva High School
• Palo Alto High School
• Pinewood School
• Saint Francis High School
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2020
• San Mateo High School
• Sequoia High School
• Serra High School
• Summit High School
• Stuart Hall High School
• TIDE Academy
• Woodside High School
Recent Wornick alumni have attended the following colleges and universities for undergraduate and graduate degrees:
• Boston University
• Brandeis University
• Cal Poly
• Caltech
• Chapman College
• Columbia University
• Cornell University
• Dartmouth College
• Duke University
• Elon University
• Emory University
• Georgetown University
• Harvard University
• Harvey Mudd College
• Hebrew Union College
• Indiana University
• Johns Hopkins University
• McGill University
• MIT
• New York University
• Northeastern
• Northwestern
• Occidental College
• Oregon State University
• Pitzer College
• Princeton University
• Purdue University
• Reed University
• Rhode Island School of Design
• Scripps College
• Seattle University
• Stanford University
• Syracuse University
• Technion
• Tel Aviv University
• Tufts University
• Tulane University
• University of Arizona
• University of California
• University of Chicago
• University of Colorado Boulder
• University of Denver
• University of Illinois
• University of Maryland
• University of Massachusetts
• University of Michigan
• University of North Carolina
• University of Oregon
• University of Southern California
• University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Vanderbilt University
• Wake Forest University
• Washington University in St. Louis
• Wesleyan University
AVIDA FAMILY SPOTLIGHT STORY
In late September 2023, Jonathan and Inbal Avida left Israel for what they thought would be a two-week vacation in Florida with their three daughters Arielle, Romy, and Shira. However, the events of October 7th changed their plans dramatically. As the situation in Israel grew more uncertain, they decided to extend their stay in the United States until things calmed down. Their journey led them to California, where they stayed with family in the Bay Area.
As weeks passed and it became evident that the conflict in Israel would not resolve quickly, the Avida’s made the decision to remain in the States long term. They had always planned to return to California someday, and the circumstances made it clear that now was the right time. This decision allowed them to manage their relocation logistics from the U.S., providing a sense of stability amidst the chaos. Their love for the Bay Area runs deep. They first moved here in 2010 for Jonathan’s graduate studies at Stanford and lived here until 2018. During those years, they fell in love with the region’s natural beauty, from the stunning San Francisco Bay to the majestic mountains and ocean. The perfect weather, combined with a vibrant community of friends and family, made the Bay Area an ideal place to call home once again.
Selecting the right school for their daughters was crucial, especially given the sudden and significant changes in their lives. They had two nieces who attended Wornick and had wonderful experiences. It was important to them that their daughters have a smooth transition, and their visit to Wornick assured them that it was the right choice. Wornick’s welcoming atmosphere and experienced staff gave them confidence that their girls would receive the best support possible. The school’s dedication to helping Israeli children transition to American education made them feel that they were joining a great community, one that would provide their daughters with a nurturing and supportive environment.
Arielle, Romy, and Shira adapted to learning English and school in the U.S. remarkably well and rather quickly. Their smiles each morning as they went to school and their joy upon returning home were clear signs that their parents had made the perfect decision. They made friends quickly and developed a strong bond with their teachers, which made their transition smoother than anyone could have imagined.
The Avida family’s experience with the Wornick community has been nothing short of wonderful. The friendships they have made with other Wornick families are sure to last a lifetime. The support and kindness they have received have made their transition easier and more fulfilling.
JEWISH JOY
Our Jewish Studies directors focused on “Jewish Joy” as our guiding light for the year. They were aiming to celebrate the accomplishments of the Jewish people and foster a richer understanding of Jewish identity. No one could have ever prepared us for the events that occurred on October 7th and the aftermath that followed, which shattered our world and forced us to pivot on a global scale. Yet, amidst the darkness, we chose simcha, joy, as our theme for the year. This choice transformed how our students approached Jewish values, texts, and their own practice despite the challenges. It helped our students and professionals explore how Jewish identity intersects with religion, culture, race, and nation, guiding them toward a deeper commitment to Judaism and community.
It is exceptional to focus on joy even in a really tough year, acknowledging the historical struggles of being Jewish while emphasizing the resilience and celebration within our community. This emphasis on joy reflects our belief in living a meaningful and joyful life, nurturing hope for a thriving world and future generations.
“Dear G-d, I stand beaten and battered by the countless manifestations of my own inadequacies. Yet we must live with joy. [We must] overcome despair, seek pursue and find every inkling of goodness, every positive point within ourselves, and so discover true joy. Aid me in this quest, HaShem. Help me find satisfaction and a deep, abiding pleasure in all that I have, in all that I do, in all that I am. - Rabbi Nachman
“I’m really grateful that I am part of such a strong community like Wornick. Especially at such hard times with the war going on in Israel and with anti-semitism Wornick has been such a great place to be at where I feel safe. It’s just great being part of such a strong community.”
-Gal, 8th Grader
CELEBRATING TRADITION
We strive to nurture our students not just as consumers of Judaism, but as its future producers. Students actively lead Tefillah services, they go beyond just reciting prayers, but instructing and explaining the purpose of why we say specific prayers or why we stand or bow a certain way.
This year at Wornick, students explored traditions in engaging ways. Sukkot came alive with the annual building of the sukkah in the RoseGarden. Hanukkah was a success, with our collaborative menorah taking first place in the World Zionist Organization’s Chanukkiot Competition. Purim brought laughter with creative costumes, from fabulous Barbies to classic characters. Our Shinshinim games and the Purim story added to the festive spirit. Passover culminated in an all-school Seder, with each grade proudly presenting a song. We also explored somber moments, learning to remember the fallen with Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaShoah. The Yom HaAtzmaut celebrations were filled with fun Israeli spirit, providing a joyful contrast. Through these diverse experiences, our students deepened their connection to Jewish traditions and forged a stronger identity within the wider Jewish
7TH GRADE TZEDAKAH PROJECT
Our 7th grade curriculum integrates the Jewish concept of Tzedakah (charity) through a year-long project. Students delve into the concept of giving by selecting a cause that resonates with them, aligning with Jewish values like Rodef Shalom (working towards peace and justice) or Bikkur Cholim (visiting the sick). Developing research and communication skills, students become advocates for their chosen organizations. They dedicate significant time to research, crafting fundraising campaigns, and raising awareness within the school community Their commitment extends beyond our walls, as they reach out to friends, family, and even the organizations themselves through letters and direct communication. This process encourages a deeper understanding of how their contributions can make a tangible difference. The project culminates in a year-end presentation where students proudly share their chosen organization, its connection to a Jewish value, its mission, and the community impact it creates.
22 ORGANIZATIONS
American Cancer Society Peninsula Open Space Trust ASPCA PETA
Bay Area Friendship Circle Save a Child’s Heart California Partnership to Surfrider -End Domestic Violence Team Seas
CASA The Ocean Clean Up Clean Air Fund This is My Earth
Habayit Shel Benji United Hatzalah
JewBelong Valley Health Foundation
Leket Israel Wounded Warrior Project
LifeLong Medical Care WeHOPE
Painted Dogs Research Trust
One student chose to support Leket Israel, an organization that fights hunger by rescuing food waste and distributing it to those in need. This initiative resonates with Jewish values of Shmirat Ha’Guf (protecting the body) by ensuring access to nutritious food, and Shmirat Ha’Teva (protecting the environment) by reducing food waste. Another student demonstrated the value of Lifnei Iver (inclusivity) by selecting the Bay Area Friendship Circle. This organization fosters a welcoming space for children with special needs, promoting acceptance and understanding within the community.
This experience empowers our 7th graders to become compassionate leaders who understand the importance of social responsibility. Following the presentations, students take ownership of the allocation process, presenting checks to the organizations, at times even welcoming the founders to witness the culmination of their efforts.
SHINSHINIM
We were fortunate to host Lia Silberstein and Naor Teboul as our shinshinim this year. They brought the spirit of Israel to Wornick by sharing a variety of traditions. Through song, dance, and engaging activities, they filled our community with joy. Their impact extended beyond Wornick. They organized a special event for our 8th graders, inviting shinshinim and 8th graders from other Jewish day schools in the Bay Area to come together and learn from each other.
They also planned the Shinshinim Games, a week-long favorite among the kids, where students are divided into teams to compete in various topics like sports, music, Israel, and Hebrew. This year the red and blue teams tied for first place!
Lia and Naor truly became part of our community. After October 7th, they joined forces with us to host a successful bake sale that raised funds for IDF units and families impacted by the war. When they return home, Lia and Naor will join the IDF, continuing their commitment to serving and protecting their country.
COMMUNITY LIFE
At Wornick, “community” isn’t just a word, it’s the very essence of what makes our school special. It’s the feeling of belonging that begins in our classrooms, extends to every corner of our school and radiates outward. This strong sense of community embodies the Jewish values of Arevut (תוברע), mutual responsibility, and Achrayut (תוירחא), personal responsibility. It means knowing you’re surrounded by people who care, who will support you and celebrate your achievements. It’s evident in the laughter shared at our lively Poker Night, the warmth of the schoolwide Shabbat celebration, the joyous energy of the Annual Gala, and the fun of Generation’s Celebration. From the tears shed together in the Ulam Gadol during Yom HaZikaron to the cheers spread at Wornick’s Got Talent, we experience a range of emotions when we come together. It’s this same essence that united us after October 7th and is getting us through these trying times. These events weave a vibrant tapestry of community, solidifying our connection to one another.
Over 5,000 Chai Volunteer Hours
PTO SUPPORT & EVENTS
Throughout the school year, the PTO plays a vital role in cultivating community spirit at Wornick by organizing events that bring us together to bond, celebrate, and support one another. This year, our PTO hosted the annual Community Shabbat Dinner, Salsa and Sangria in the Sukkah, the Book Fair, several socials, and spoiled our professionals throughout the year! They concluded the year by bringing the Wild West to WornickFest, filled with food and fun. By supporting our teachers and professionals, the PTO empowers us to enhance our students’ experiences and provides crucial resources that directly benefit our classrooms. This dedicated group of volunteers not only creates a welcoming atmosphere for families, but also promotes inclusivity within our community.
“We started the year with welcome events and our annual Shabbat dinnera community favorite - and then quickly pivoted to a support role for our school on October 7. Because of the current situation, we reevaluated some planned events and instead shifted to supporting our staff with Shabbat meals and extra Appreciation treats. We knew how much our school needed and we were ready to support.”
Jesykah Forkash Sarkissian, former PTO Co-President
SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 2024
We came together to celebrate life, community, and generosity. With over 250 guests, we savored delectable dishes and danced the night away!
We honored three pillars of our community, Fran and Bobby Lent, and Debbi Seligman. Our honorees embody the determination to build future leaders infused with Jewish values who achieve academically and flourish socially.
Bobby and Fran Lent, parents to Wornick alumni Bradley, Hannah, and Roselyn, have demonstrated leadership at Wornick Jewish Day School with vision, dedication, and bravery since its founding days. Through their guidance and philanthropy, the Lent family has been responsible for broadening inclusion initiatives to ensure access to more learners who want a Jewish Day School education.
As our school looks towards the future, the Lent family is helping us realize the potential for our beloved institution. We are so grateful for their dedication to Jewish education and the success of Wornick Jewish Day School.
Debbi Seligman joined the Wornick faculty in 1994, and is the proud parent of Wornick alumni Rebecca and David. Throughout her years at Wornick, she has worn a variety of hats — elementary school teacher, administrator and principal, DeLeT mentor, member of the Safety & Security Committee and Educational Leadership Team, as well as leading many of the accreditation processes over the years.
Debbi’s devotion to the Wornick community can be felt by the many students, parents, and professionals she has impacted over her time at Wornick. Debbi embodies the joy and heart of all that is Wornick!
Fran & Bobby Lent
Debbi Seligman
CULTURE OF PHILANTHROPY
We would like to express our deep appreciation for our donor community that embraced a culture of meaningful giving. Thanks to your generosity, our school is flourishing and providing exceptional Jewish educational experiences for all our students. Your support advances Wornick’s educational model, retains high-quality educators, and keeps tuition below the full cost of operation, ensuring our exceptional education remains accessible to all our families.
While the number of donors supporting our annual campaign remains steady at an average of 350, the total amount of funds raised has seen a significant increase over the years, a testament to the growing impact of your contributions.
Last school year, we collectively raised $1,800,000 for our annual campaign from 364 constituents, representing parents, alumni parents, the professional community, board members, and foundations. We are proud of our community’s high participation, which is demonstrated by 100% of our professional community, 100% of our board, and 95% of our parents. With your support we hope to continue our fundraising efforts and meet our highest goal in over 13 years to reach $1,994,000 for the 2024/2025 school year.
WORNICK’S GIVING COMMUNITY
$25,000+ Dreamers/ Cholmim / םימלוח
Anonymous
Abe and Edith Ballonoff Foundation
Sarah and Jordan Blake ♦
Barbara Jacobs ♦
The Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund ♦
Ha Nguyen and Cary Kletter ♦
Koret Foundation
Koum Foundation
Fran and Bobby Lent ♦
Levine-Lent Family Foundation ♦
The John Pritzker Family Fund
Anita and Ronald z”l Wornick ♦
$18,000+ Designers / M’atzevim / םיבצעמ
Anonymous
Mina and Daniel Bressler ♦
The Michael and Nomi Moradzadeh Family Foundation
Catherine Lau and Scott Silverglate
“As a professional and alumni parent at Wornick Jewish Day School, I give because I believe in nurturing a vibrant community where every child is included and can thrive. My family’s contribution helps ensure that our students receive not just an exceptional education, but also the values and traditions that will guide them throughout their lives. By supporting Wornick, I’m investing in the future leaders of our community and the world.”
-Katie Wolff, Kindergarten Teacher and Alumni Parent
$10,000+ Visionaries / Hogim / םיגוה
Anonymous
Gilah and Mark Abelson ♦
Emma Sarnat Bazri and Eli Bazri
The Aaron and Marie Blackman Foundation ♦
Jill Grossman and Andy Fradkin ♦
Nylda Gemple
Miriam and Nadav Grossinger ♦
Janet and Rennie Karr ♦
Rachel Canning and Soheil Motamed ♦
Rebecca and David Rodnitzky ♦
Jesykah Forkash Sarkissian and Arin Sarkissian
Hélène Chokron Garneau and Andrew Straus
Nicole and Vlad Veinstein
$5,000+ Leaders / Manhigim / םיגהנמ
Daphne Kaufer and Ram Bartov ♦
Heather Brien and Chris Battles
Lauren Wilner and Adam Eilath
Emily and Dave Fisher
Judy, Ari, and Joshua Fridman
Cindy Rogoway and Joe Goldberg ♦
Megan and Harrison Krat
Meredith and Eran Liron
Lori and Raymond Liu
Irene and Stephen Moff ♦
Julia Galperin and Felix Tarnarider ♦
Tamar Spektor and Steve Thoma ♦
Roselyne Swig ♦
Wendy and Jeremy Verba ♦
Katie and Mike Wolff ♦
Liron Tapiro-Yehudai and Offer Yehudai
$3,600+ Heroes / Giborim /םירוביג
Adrienne and Howard Abrams ♦
Cathy and Lee Battles
Sarah Kelman and Hanan Beliak
Vivien Hu and Yoram Benbarak
Ellen and Marc Brown
Katarina and Joakim Brunnestom
Cathy Bernstein and Lee Gersznowicz
Annie O’Donnell and RM Karr ♦
Lisa and David Mendell
Sabina and Roman Polnar
Debbi and Ron Seligman ♦
Zev Yaroslavsky ♦
$1,800+ Guardians / Tomchim /
Anonymous (2)
Beth Freeman and Maury Alcheck ♦
Ilana Spokoyny and David Azaria
Lynn and Rabbi Haim Beliak
Judy Canning ♦
Kate and Marvin Feinstein
Daphne and Randy Goldberg
Lea Grinberg-Korczyn and Oded Korczyn ♦
Michal and Guy Miasnik
Monica and Kenneth Oestreich
Ellen and Gerald Saliman ♦
Haggit and Eran Sandhaus
Florette Schwartz ♦
Taube Family Foundation ♦
Diana Hardy and David Viner
$1,000+ Creators / Yotzrim / םירצוי
Jessica Allaway Bessler and Scott Allaway
Lainee and Leonard Engel
Barbara Engler ♦
Paul and Selma Forkash Family Charitable Trust
Liliana and Seamus Giffen
Dana and Marty Izenson ♦
Joanne and Jeff Jagoda
Inbar and Tamir Meiri
Caren and Robin Neydavoud ♦
Sandra Steiner and Aaron Rackoff
Jewel Laptavijok and Yuan Ren
Emily and Jim Scheinman
Kimberly and Amir Shalom
Andrea and Joe Straus
Cindy and Phil Strause
Limeng and Eylon Stroh ♦
Jennifer and Marc Taxay ♦
Salma Khan and Michael Wornick ♦
$540+ Influencers / Mashpiyim / םיעיפשמ
Anonymous (5)
Anya and Nadav Benbarak
Miriam Bodin ♦
Pam and Douglas Bodin ♦
Dina and Andrei Chtchemelinine
Lorraine and Noah Cohen ♦
Maya Zultsbeak David and Lior David
Cynthia and Joshua Dunetz
Irina Fayngersh and Shai Deljo
Rima and Levan Devy ♦
Marie Markon Edel and Nathan Edel
Esther and Troy Gillette ♦
Shoshi Naymann and Dudu Habib ♦
Laurie Hepler ♦
Lee Lior Hoffmann and Udi Hoffmann ♦
Lois Horwitz ♦
Leslie and Peter Mertz
Patti and Larry Moskovitz
Gita and Claude Nahum
Sarah Lee Park and Donovan Collins
Jocelyn and Cantor Doron Shapira ♦
Emily Ironi and Matt Shell z”l
Iris and Ori Shmuel
Danielle and Marat Shub ♦
Amy and Wayne Sosnick ♦
Svetlana Tamir Ruderman and Or Tamir
Rachel and Robert Turetsky
Karen Lloyd Wolff and George Wolff ♦
Zack Zait
Rabbi Elana and Adiv Zelony
Sabina and Joshua Zimmerman ♦
“Our family has grown up together with Wornick for over 10 years now to the point where we celebrate life milestones together. First grade, Kabbalat HaSiddur and holiday celebrations. Giving to Wornick is our way of saying thanks and making sure the tradition lives on. Wornick does much more than just provide education. It provides values, trust, and community. While donating to a private school was new to our “Israeli eyes”, there are few things more rewarding than giving back and investing in the future of our kids.”
- Liron Tapiro Yehudai, Parent
$360+
Partners / Shutafim /
Anonymous (3)
Martha and Michael Adler ♦
Marcia and Steve Barkoff ♦
Joyce and Joseph Behar ♦
Gail and Assaf Benjamin
Cee and Russell Blaine
Mollyann Brodie
Melody and Jonathan Choslovsky
Ryan Cohen
Edna and Edwin Colloff
Jill and Martin Dodd
Jilla and Keivan Ehsanipour
KJ and Gai Elhanan
Ruth and Adi Gamon
Barbara and Joel Gereboff ♦
Naomi Sachs and Steve Gershik
Yelena and Edo Guttman
Michael Horwitz
Chen and Yariv Kenan
Linda and Robert Kiss ♦
Kate and Snir Kodesh
Karen and Andrew Levy
Tingting Cai and Wei Liu
Ortal Sharlin and David Malek
Joanne and Michael Mandel ♦
Debbie and Ori Melamud
Harriett and John Michael
Tamar and Jonathan Miller ♦
Sandra and David Monasch III
Carolyn and Robert Moore
Inna Orlichenko and Samuel Nakhimovsky
Pamela O’Donnell ♦
Kiran and Anil Rathi
Michelle Mandel and Simon Reading ♦
Candace and Eithan Shavit
Nicole Barr and Steven Stupp
Leslie and Dan Strauss
Anna and David Tolioupov
Margie and Rabbi Irvin Ungar ♦
Heidi Yu and Chen Wang
Chelsea and Mark Yuan
Anonymous (31)
Zivi Weinstock and Jon Abrams
Randi Adleberg
Keren-Or Reiss and Erez Angel ♦
Tali and Ronen Aseo
Inbal and Jonathan Avida
Edna Avraham ♦
Bar and Ben Bakhshi
Elise and Ariel Beliak ♦
Dana and David Ben Ari
Ruby Berg ‘23
Neta Hamou and Pasha Bitz
Rani Solomon Bleier and Itay Bleier ♦
Valeriya Pasynkova and Gennadiy Blinder ♦
Judi Bliquez
Jenny Boyce
Kim and Rocky Branch
Stacey Brooks
Corine and Robert Brouwer ♦
Nicola Burt
Elyse and Ben Cheever
Roxanne and David Cohen ♦
Kay Funk and Michael Collins
Ayelet Konrad and Gary Coover
Rochelle and Mervyn Danker ♦
Vilma Barrios and Wosbeli Deleon
Marion and Harold Dinitz
Shannon Frank Edelstone
Sharron and Elias Emergui ♦
Phoenix and Josh Feinbloom ♦
Corine Finney
Madeline and Bob Flanagan
Margaret and Michael Flynn
Raz Frenkel
Olga and Seth Goldberg ♦
Bari Goldojarb
Michelle and Miles Goldstein♦
Kelly Grady
Nancy Grant
Lael Gray
Tzofit and Yogev Hadad
Nicole and Michael Haire ♦
Keren and Natan Hamer
Susan Hamlin ♦
Danielle Harel-Rozen
Dr. Alice Do and Zachary Hertz
Catherine Hicks
Susan and Joseph Hilleli
Yingying Lang and Ming Jiang
Niv Kagan
Orlee Engler Kahn and Jeffrey Kahn
Mor Sharon Katz and Bar Katz
Tatyana Shapiro and Eli Katzman
Elana Jagoda Kaye and Saul Kaye
Suzanne and Larry Kaye
Julia Benoit and Victor Kennedy
Judy Thalheimer and Brian Kirshner ♦
Wendy and Howard Kleckner
Ana and Jonah Klein
Marla Kletter ♦
Avital and Isaac Koren
Deborah Krat
Laine Krat
Heather Cahan and Kartik Krishnan ♦
Karen and Paul Kvam
Erica Lance
Hen and Asaf Levi
Kirsten and Brandon Levin
Maxine Levine
Naomi and Benjamin Levy
Moria Beshari-Liphshitz and Oded Liphshitz
Karen Bendelman and Nicolas Loeff
Sharon and Liron Machluf
Marcella McCollum
Ronit and Aitan Melamud
Ronna Milo Haglili and Ran Milo ♦
Sharon Mishler and Rabbi Dan Moskovitz
Sarah and Jeff Moskovitz
Eva Moss
Amy and Joseph Musher
Elinor Leib-Nahum and Assaf Nahum
Alix and Idan Nakav
Tatyana and Michael Nakhimovsky
Kendrice Newman
Sora Lei and Don Newman
Michele Young and Alejandro Ozerkovsky
Ashley Walter and Marco Pacheco
Carrie and Bob Parecki
Laura and Bob Parks
Cynthia Pellegrini ♦
Sivan Cohen and Lidor Pergament
Yarden Elhanan and Jimy Pesin
Anat and Eran Pilovsky
Elmira and Viktor Piskunovych
Ekaterina Vaisberg and Yury Polnar
Sally and David Porush
Jamil Pura
Dawn and Ankur Rathi
Rachel Ravelli
Andrea Ressi
Anthony Roberts
Ethan Roberts
Donna and Robert Rodnitzky ♦
Ana Revolledo and Juan Romero
Lauren Rosenblum
Lara Walklet and Aviad Rubinstein
Rebekah Schechtman
Lisa and Ellis Schoichet
Bella Seligman z”l
Linda Shapiro
Yarden Shalom Shaul and Barel Shaul
Melissa Shefer
Lawrence Siders
Yana Kalika and Ilya Sigal
Joan Hardy and David Skurnick
Ginger Slonaker ♦
Ellen and Paul Snider ♦
Madeleine Steckley Squire ‘10
Renata and Andrei Stoica
Bettina Stopford
Natalie TL
Carissa Tonner
Adam Troner
Paul Wachter
Karen Wagshul ♦
Kristin and Bryce Wagshul
Edna Wallace
Diane Walton
Hazel and Jordan Warnick
Adrienne and David Weil
Ellen Weinstein and Fred Weiner ♦
Diane and Michael Westheimer
Amy Wilner
Schneur and Shainy Wineberg
Donna Ornitz and Brian Wolf
Cynthia and Ken Wornick ♦
Jessica Gineris and Harry Wornick ‘00
Lilit and Kobi Yakov
Linda and Mark Yelnick
Legacy Gifts make a huge impact on the long-term sustainability and financial health of Wornick. The Legacy Society recognizes our community members who have committed to planned giving to the school.
Legacy Society
Ann Bear z”l
Roxanne & David Cohen
Rebecca Schwartz & Roger Feigelson
Judy & Tom Fisher
Nylda Gemple
Barbara & Joel Gereboff
Esther & Troy Gillette
Sharon & Scott Hartley
Deborah Kelman & Rabbi Marvin Goodman
Joelle & Neal Kaufman
Lindsay & Ilan Kopecky
Eva Lokey z”l
Ellen and Jerry Saliman
Larry B. Schlenoff
Fred Weiner
Anita & Ron z”l Wornick
Corporate Matching
Activision Blizzard
Adobe Systems, Inc.
AMD
Apple
Genentech
Gilead Sciences
Intuitive Foundation
Johnson & Johnson
Mondelez Global LLC
NetApp
OD1234
Oracle
PepsiCo
Salesforce Foundation
U.S. Travel
Visa
♦Yahalom Circle Members who have donated for 7 years or more
We have tried to be as accurate as possible and apologize for any errors that may appear in our listing. Please contact Andrea Romero at 650-378-2621 or aromero@wornickjds.org for changes to future listings. Thank you!
CHAI CIRCLE - WINTER IN THE SHUK
As a token of our appreciation for our Chai Circle members ($3,600+), we brought an Israeli shuk to Wornick filled with all the homeland favorites. Snacks, spices, and beautiful crafts adorned the room and transported our guests to the busy shuks of Israel. No shuk would be complete without delicious street food paired with a refreshing limonana or a classic Goldstar beer.
WORNICK’S DONOR GRATITUDE CIRCLES
We deeply cherish our donors, value their generosity, and admire their dedication to our school. That’s why we’re thrilled to enhance our appreciation by expanding our gratitude circles. Each donor to our annual campaign becomes part of one or more gratitude circles. These circles celebrate our donors through special events and tailored communications, enhancing our broader Kehillah community.
The Kehillah Circle appreciates everyone who has contributed to Wornick and fostered a sense of community and belonging.
The Shalom Circle extends a warm welcome to new members of our community, inviting them to embrace our culture of philanthropy.
The Yahalom Circle recognizes donors who have generously supported Wornick’s annual campaign for seven years or more, celebrating their enduring commitment and long time impact.
The Chai Circle acknowledges donors’ unwavering support with a commitment to an annual gift of $3,600+
The Zahav Circle honors our major donors who made steadfast support through an annual gift of $18,000+
Bogrim (Alumni) Circles appreciates our younger (under 21) and more established (21+) alumni communities.
SUNDAY, MARCH 9th, 2025
2023/2024 DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Megan Krat, Chair
Sarah Blake
Hélène Chokron Garneau
Julia Galperin
Jesykah Forkash Sarkissian
Emma Sarnat
Adam Eilath
Haggit Sandhaus
Andrea Romero Abigail Katz
For more than 38 years, Ronald C. Wornick Jewish Day School has been at the center of Jewish life, learning, and community for families of the North Peninsula.
As the needs of our students and community have evolved, so has our vision for Wornicks' growth and future. Last school year, we presented the first comprehensive campaign in our school's history, the Reconstructing Our Future campaign, with the goal to raise $21 million. This campaign has two components: improving our facility and creating an agency fund to enhance the school's financial sustainability. The vision for our future will produce a new 10,000+ sq. ft. wing to advance our progressive education philosophy, the ability to offer our educators competitive salaries with ongoing opportunities for professional development, expanded access to a Wornick education for all members of our community, and a strengthened Jewish community in the North Peninsula.
Under the leadership of David Rodnizky and Ha Nguyen, our campaign co-chairs, we have achieved significant milestones. We have reached 100% of the Design Development phase, set up an investment fund at the Jewish Federation, and received pledges from 30 donors totaling over $13 million. We would like to thank our campaign committee: Mark Abelson, Sarah Blake, Mina Bressler, Jesykah Forkash Sarkissian, Daphne Kaufer, Fran Lent, Tamar Miller, Nomi Moradzadeh, Katie Wolff, and Mike Wolff. Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in our progress. If you’re intrested in learning more, please contact Haggit Sandhaus at hsandhaus@wornickjds.org.
WORNICK’S PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY
Tali Aseo
Edna Avraham*
Karen Bendelman
Moria Beshari Liphshitz
Judi Bliquez
Pam Bodin *
Abbe Braitman *
Sara Calonico
Noah Cohen*
Debra Constantino *
Meaghan Dittemer
Andrea Duran
Adam Eilath
Hadar Elazar
Corine Finney
Esther Gillette *
Michelle Goldstein
Nicole Haire *
Danielle Harel-Rozen
Catherine Hicks
Dana Izenson *
Barbara Jacobs *
Saul Kaye
Chen Kenan
Erica Lance
Jens Landa
Elinor Leib-Nahum
Asaf Levi
Hen Levi
Sharon Machluf
Michelle Mandel
Rina Mangurten
Michelle Merin
Nicole Meron
Roy Meron
Eva Moss
Sam Mualmy
Alix Nakav
Dan Nevo
Kendrice Newman
Annie O’Donnell
Cynthia Pellegrini *
Emilie Potter
Jamil Pura
Sandra Ramirez *
Dawn Rathi
Rachel Ravelli
Andrea Ressi
Anthony Roberts
Ethan Roberts
Andrea Romero
Haggit Sandhaus
Rebekah Schechtman
Debbi Seligman *
Kim Shalom
Yarden Shalom Shaul
Mor Sharon Katz
Barel Shaul
Ginger Slonaker
Asya Solomatin
Rani Solomon Bleier
Madeleine Steckley Squire ‘10
Carissa Tonner
Karen Wagshul *
Ashley Walter
Katie Wolff
* Professionals who have been a part of the Wornick community for 10 years or more!
RETIRING PROFESSIONALS
Edna Avraham
After 14 years, Edna Avraham, our Hebrew teacher and Ulpan leader, retired. Morah Edna diligently served our school in various capacities, including Hebrew Teacher, Hebrew Coordinator, and Ulpan Leader. Nearly a decade ago, Morah Edna participated in a major overhaul of our Hebrew standards and co-created a curricular program that remains the foundation of our Hebrew program today. She trained and supported teachers for many years, sharing her expertise and strengthening the department. Students, especially those new to Hebrew or who faced challenges learning a second language, felt supported and encouraged by Morah Edna to excel in Hebrew. We are immensely grateful to Morah Edna for her contributions and will miss her tremendously. Her impact on students, colleagues, and Wornick’s Hebrew program will be felt for years to come.
Abbe Braitman
Abbe Braitman, our Science Coordinator, retired last year. Ms. Braitman, both an alumni parent and a dedicated professional, played a crucial role in enhancing the quality and outcomes of our science curriculum, especially in our lower school. The transition to Next Generation Science Standards required meticulous planning regarding both our teaching methods and the content we delivered. Since 2013, Ms. Braitman was a thoughtful and considerate partner to all our general studies teachers. She also introduced the Yellow Tulip Project (Signs of Hope) to Wornick and collaborated with Ms. Calonico to implement this program. The impact of Ms. Braitman’s work cannot be overstated. She transformed the way our students experience science, ensuring that it was engaging, relevant, hands-on, and comprehensible. We will miss Ms. Braitman greatly, but we are confident that the lasting contributions she made to our science program will endure well beyond her tenure at our school.
Noah Cohen
Noah Cohen, our Middle School Social Studies teacher, retired last year. Mr. Cohen, who has been with us twice since 2010, enjoyed a long and impactful career at Wornick. He initially led our educational technology program for several years before returning four and a half years ago as our Middle School Social Studies teacher. Mr. Cohen was deeply committed to building community and educating students. He engaged students with hands-on projects that encouraged critical thinking about sources, sparked excitement for research and debate, and fostered curiosity about how history relates to contemporary challenges. Many of his projects involved art re-creation, experiential design, or reenactment of significant historical events. Students at Wornick fondly remember Mr. Cohen for his map challenges in the lunch line and the warm welcome he provided daily.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Wornick Jewish Day School is the educational home (TK-8) for the Jewish community in the North Peninsula. We are an open, welcoming, and diverse school community whose mission is to develop students who are socially and academically prepared to meet their full potential as engaged leaders committed to a life steeped in Jewish ethics and values. Our core principles* guide how we bring our mission to life in the areas of:
At Wornick, we celebrate the Jewish value of wisdom
הניב (Bina). We spark excitement for and teach students to find meaning in learning. We inspire students to be curious lifelong learners. Every child is seen and heard as they tackle complex academics and interpersonal learning that prepares them for their future endeavors.
As a Jewish Community Day School, Wornick’s approach to community is deeply rooted in the values of Arevut, תוברע and Achrayut תוירחא (communitymindedness and social responsibility). We believe that Wornick is more than a school and its impact is felt beyond our walls and our students. Students, families, and our professional staff thrive within the fabric of an engaged school community grounded in connection, belonging, and shared experiences.
2024/25 BOARD OF
Mina Bressler, Board President
TRUSTEES
Hélène Chokron Garneau, Board Vice President
Harry Wornick, Treasurer
Megan Krat, Secretary
Sarah Blake, Immediate Past President
Sandy Steiner, PTO Co-President
Jewish learning at Wornick is a joyful tapestry of immersive study and experiences, personal reflections, and communal celebration. We believe that Judaism teaches us to find meaning in everything and to be responsible for ourselves, our communities, and beyond.
At Wornick, we believe diverse voices and experiences enhance our school community. Our approach to inclusion is rooted in the Jewish values of Derech Eretz, ץרא ךרד (honor and respect) and B’tzelem Elohim ׳ה םלצב (all people are created in the image of G-d). We embrace and welcome a rich mosaic of Jewish practice, learning styles, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, life experience, socioeconomic status, and world perspectives.
Jesykah Forkash Sarkissian
Julia Galperin
Paul Lazarow
Lori Liu
Amir Michael Dr. Irene Moff
Michael Moradzadeh Ha Nguyen
Monica Oestreich
Sabina Polnar
David Rodnitzky
Jeremy Verba
800 Foster City Blvd., Foster City, CA 94404
650.378.2600 :: Wornickjds.org
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Ronald C. Wornick Jewish Day School’s mission is to develop students who are socially and academically prepared to meet their full potential as engaged leaders committed to a life steeped in Jewish ethics and values.
