1/15/2021 Head of School Message

Dear DKJA Community,
 
I can hardly believe that our second semester of the school year is already in full swing. I am impressed by our students and their dedication as we continue to navigate the pandemic together. Our in-person learners are respectful of our mask policy and COVID-19 safety protocols, and our remote learners are logging in every day with a positive attitude and determination for success. In preparation for next year, we have created a tentative 2021-2022 school year calendar. Please remember that this calendar is subject to change as we get closer to the start of the new school year. The tentative calendar is provided at the bottom of this email.
 
Martin Luther King Day
This week students in all grades spent time learning about the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his impact on our society. I was fortunate to attend the Middle School's virtual MLK assembly where students watched a video highlighting Dr. King's fight for racial justice. Our students are always taught to be kind and to serve others, which is especially appropriate as we honor the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
 
 
RHS Drama Production
I would like to send a heartfelt mazel tov to our RHS drama department for putting together their first virtual performance, which was available for streaming this past week. Producing a virtual production is no easy task, but our students have once again shown that they can rise up to any challenge. Under the direction of the incomparable Zoraida Adams, our students rehearsed and recorded their performances from the comfort of their homes. As always, I am blown away by the talent of our students. 
 
DKJA Athletics
Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to get outside and watch our student athletes play soccer. It was a wonderful experience watching them play and seeing parents and family members cheering from the sidelines—masked and socially distanced. Beginning a safe return to DKJA athletics has provided a welcome sense of normalcy for our students and faculty. Through our partnership with the NFHS Network, all Eagles home games are being live streamed. Please click here for more information and to access the livestreams. 
 
Grandparents and Special Friends Month
The meaning of L’dor V’dor (from generation to generation) is always close to our hearts here at DKJA. Now more than ever, it is important to connect with our older relatives who may be feeling isolated during this time. DKJA is excited to host our first ever Grandparents and Special Friends Month. Beginning February 1 and continuing throughout the month, we invite grandparents and special friends of our students to Make History Together and participate virtually in their grandchild's class and interesting presentations throughout each division. Be sure to save the date of February 1 at 10:00 am for an exciting kick-off to this special month long event. Please view the flyer below and continue to check your emails for additional information.
 
Upcoming Events
January 27 at 9:00 a.m. - All new families are invited to join our director of admissions, Dr. Rebecca Pinchevsky, other administrators, and me for a Coffee and Conversation virtual event. Please see additional information below. 
 
January 27 at 6:00 p.m. - I am excited to announce our next virtual Storytime with the Head of School. All Lower School families are invited to join me as I read one of my favorite stories in honor of Tu B’Shvat.
 
January 29 at 9:00 a.m. - Our students will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of our Leader In Me program. This amazing program teaches our students how to develop and use valuable leadership skills to promote success in all of their future endeavors. 
 
I wish you all a relaxing weekend and an enjoyable day off Monday in honor of Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday. 
 
Shabbat Shalom,
Helena Levine
Head of School
Donna Klein Jewish Academy
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