|
Hebrew Academy is celebrating 40 years of excellence in education.
How fortunate I feel to have been part of this wonderful jour ney for
over 20 years.
Together we have faced many challenges over which we have triumphed,
all the while continuing to develop, grow, and excel. The past 40 years
have seen us move into a beautiful new facility where our enrollment
has more then doubled. We have opened a French stream as well as
developed a special needs Vanguard Program. A tremendous addition to
our school came about when we welcomed the Kollel Torah Mitzion and
invited the Gesher Chai and B’not Sherut into our fold.
Educationally we have soared, as we have obtained unconditional accreditation
from CESI, the Canadian Educational Standards Institute. We have become a Community Lear ning
Centre and in keeping with our schools Tziyonut philosophy we have sent a multitude of students
on various hugely successful Israeli trips. Further to this, I was overjoyed this past December to host
a gathering of alumni in Israel who have either made aliya or are currently studying there. To my
amazement we had close to 400 people attending. The camaraderie and the sense of belonging
everyone felt was unbelievable. Everyone present was happy to share anecdotes and fondest
memories with each other. Hebrew Academy is a real family!
We have seen our children grow and mature from the first days of pre-school to proudly watching
them march down the aisle upon graduating from high school. The story does not stop there, as we
watch our alumni go on to become successful professionals, and as the circle goes round they enroll
their children at Hebrew Academy. What a testament to all the efforts and education they received
from our Administration, faculty and staff.
Over the years we have seen many special individuals pass through our doors; Supporters,
Educational Directors, Principals, Faculty, Staff, as well as committed parents whose only goal was
the better ment of the school. Renée and Marty Lieber man, our 2008 honourees, are two such
parents; committed to all Jewish causes, especially to education and in particular to the Hebrew
Academy. They have both been active supporters of the school for many years. Their spirit, devotion,
enthusiasm and efforts on behalf of our school are exemplary. Renée’s commitment to chesed and
to her tehilim groups is to be emulated by us all. I wish to thank them for their friendship, their
dedication, their caring and warmth. I wish them good health, happiness and much continued success
in all their maasim tovim.
As Executive Director, I was proud to see the energy level, commitment, co-operation and sense of
purpose among our volunteers and staff in preparations for our Anniversary celebrations. Our dedicated
chairs of the Campaign, the Jour nal, the Shabbaton, the Shalshelet, and the Dinner, have worked
tirelessly hand in hand to ensure our success. Yasher Koach. My sincere appreciation also goes to
Annette Goldman, our Fundraising Coordinator for her selfless efforts and dedication to our school.
Last but not least, very special thank-you to you, our supporters and friends. It is only through your
patronage that we could continue to pursue excellence thus ensuring our children a bright future!
Mazel tov!
Linda Lehrer
|
