Dear Lower School Students and Families,

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for making this year so memorable. I am truly impressed by how much you have grown since the beginning of the school year. We learned so much together, and had tons of fun along the way. From our enrichment clusters and amazing Purim celebrations to Wit & Wisdom publishing parties, it has been such a pleasure to be part of your journey.

I am in disbelief that you are the same 1st graders who walked up to the second floor during the Sha’ar Haprachim (Flower Gate) ceremony back in August! Since then, you have become experts on Creature Features and created your own books and games to share your learning. You sat at your Shabbat tables for the very first time and welcomed 8th grade buddies to your classrooms. You have embodied so much simchah throughout your learning this year, and it was a joy watching you showcase your hard work during Early Birds and through your family Shabbat program.

2nd graders, you became Hebrew readers and writers this year! Hearing and seeing your learning firsthand has been such a privilege. You went to the Grove to learn all about the American West, and you even made cornbread using only ingredients that were available in that time period. You hosted your parents for a challah baking event and showcased how beautifully you lead Tefillah as Chazanim and Chazaniot (cantors). You did all of this while embracing Teshuvah with your friends, teachers, and family.

To our incredible 3rd graders, you should be so proud of your WIBA projects (What I’m Best At)! The way you cheered each other on and took pride in each other’s strengths was an incredible testament to your value of V’ahavta L’rayecha Ka’mocha (love your neighbor as yourself). You became explorers this year, as you studied everything from the depths of the sea all the way up to outer space. You had a blast with your Reader’s Theater about Galileo, and after a slight delay, we finally made it to the Shedd Aquarium. You also piloted Bernard Zell’s first-ever Family Day celebration and displayed all of the beautiful things that make your families so special.

And, to our 4th graders (almost Middle Schoolers!), we will miss you as the leaders of Lower School. You entered the Shark Tank, learned how to survive in the wilderness through Brian’s experience in Hatchet, and practiced empathy through The Nora Project. You truly lived by the words Hachnasat Orchim (welcoming guests), as you welcomed 1st graders into their first-ever enrichment clusters, along with a sofer (scribe) who led you in a simulation of writing in a Torah with a quill and ink. Finally, you welcomed your families to join you in Israeli Dancing and to create a piece of art featuring the Birkat HaBayit, or blessing for the home. 4th graders, I am confident in saying that you are well-prepared to become our newest Middle School students!

I am so proud of all of your achievements this year, and cannot wait to see all of your continued accomplishments next year!

Love,

Ms. Silverberg, Head of Lower School