Bneiakivaschoolsstudentlifesmall

yeshivat or chaimulpanat orot

student life 2014 - 2015 • 5775

yeshivat or chaim / ulpanat orot student life 2014-20152

community serviceAs part of their graduation requirement outlined by the Ontario Ministry of Education, students at Bnei Akiva Schools must complete 40 hours of documented community service. The vast majority of our students, however, complete well more than the ministry’s requirements with a variety of organizations within the Jewish community and beyond.

Relationships with otheR

oRganizations

The Bnei Akiva Schools maintain a close relationship with the Bnei Akiva / Mizrachi movement. Many of our students lead weekly Bnei Akiva youth groups and Bnei Akiva Shabbatonim and attend or staff Bnei Akiva camps. Our students have also been directly involved in community Yom Haatzmaut / Yom Hazikaron programs. The school also maintains close relationships with organizations advocating inclusion of individuals with all abilities. At Or Chaim, Yachad members are invited to play basketball after school some days, as well as being invited to several mishmars a year; and Yachad joins the girls at their Simchat Beit Hashoeva and once a week for an after school dance program.

student life at or chaim and ulpanat orot

• Baycrest• Bnei Akiva• CHAI Lifeline• CIJA• CJPAC• DANI• Free the Children

• Friendship Circle • Hatzolah• Kensington

Retirement Place• Live Wise

Foundation

• National Council of Jewish Women Toronto

• NCSY• Od Yosef Chai• One Family Fund• Shalva• Sharsheret

• Tomchei Shabbos• UJA • V’Ahavata • Walk with Israel• Yachad• Yeshiva University• Zareinu

community partnerships

Bnei Akiva Schools has partnered with the following community organizations:

A student’s experience at Yeshivat Or Chaim and Ulpanat Orot extends well beyond the classroom. The wide array of co-curricular activities, teams and programs encourage students to get involved in school life. Students are part of an environment that stresses contributing to the Jewish people while at the same time channeling their passions and honing their leadership skills. Bnei Akiva Schools emphasize a commitment to Medinat Yisrael. We expect our students to demonstrate Ahavat Yisrael, Derech Eretz and social responsibility towards the Jewish Community, Canada, and the world at large.

yeshivat or chaim / ulpanat orot student life 2014-2015 yeshivat or chaim / ulpanat orot student life 2014-2015 3

As an organization, “Bnei Akiva inspires and empowers young Jews with a sense of commitment to the Jewish people, the Land of Israel and the Torah.”

co-curricular activitiesChidon hatanaChA longstanding annual tradition, Or Chaim and Ulpana students compete in the final round of the International Chidon Hatanach Competition held in Israel on Yom Haatzmaut. This past year, the international winner was an Or Chaim student. 10 students from both schools participated in the regional finals with 5 advancing to the national finals. An Ulpanat Orot student will represent Canada in the international competition this coming year.

teaM shalVa JeRUsaleM MaRathonThis year will be the inaugural year of the Bnei Akiva Schools team participating in the Jerusalem marathon on behalf of Shalva. Joining a select cadre of other Yeshiva day schools in North America, the Bnei Akiva Schools team will be coached separately by faculty in each school. Each participant raises a minimum of $3000 towards the cost of this trip. In addition to participating in this marathon, our students will have a chance to visit Shalva’s facilities and join together with other high school students for a Shalva-sponsored shabbaton following the marathon.

Model UnEach year, our students participate in two different Model UN programs. Under the guidance of

faculty members, students research the politics of the country they have been selected to represent, in order to play the roles of real United Nations delegates at the conference. Participating in the Model UN programs adds to participants knowledge of world affairs and their public speaking skills. Qualifying Grade 11 and 12 students participate in Yeshiva University’s Model UN Conference with hundreds of other yeshiva high school students across North America. All students are invited to participate in the Jewish Canadian Youth Model UN held in Montreal.

aRt exhibitionAt the culmination of the school year, Bnei Akiva Schools hosts an Art Exhibition evening. The work displayed is a representative survey of all the artwork done throughout the year from all grades at both schools. The high quality artwork comprises pieces in painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, and multi-media. Invitations go out to all Bnei Akiva Schools families, as well as to those in the wider community. Visitors typically come away with great enthusiasm and inspired by the quality of art done by our students.

“My tiMe in the Model United nations prograM helped instill and cUltivate crUcial critical thinking and pUblic

speaking skills, while siMUltaneoUsly proMoting an air of collegiality and

friendship aMongst the MeMbers of the clUb. i can say with UtMost certainty that the skills that i was taUght in Model Un, have proved essential in both My post-

secondary and professional edUcation.

- Shimshi Dukesz (‘10)


pUbliC speaking ContestBnei Akiva Schools runs an Annual Public Speaking Contest available to all students. Judges vary from year to year, usually made up of a panel of teachers, administrators and community members. In 2010, a people’s choice component was instituted to the competition, whereby the audience members themselves act as judges and text the number of their favourite finalist. The public speaking competition is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn to successfully communicate orally, to hone their public speaking skills and to give students an opportunity to share their beliefs in an encouraging atmosphere.

liteRaRy nightAs part of their summer reading curriculum, Grade 9 and 11 students participate in a book club evening. Parents are encouraged to read the books and participate in the program as well. Students

craft the discussion questions and, for grade 11, a faculty member moderates the discussion; for grade 9, a grade 12 student moderates the discussion. This evening is a wonderful opportunity for students to share their thoughts, perfect their public speaking skills and engage their classmates, parents and teachers in a sophisticated literary discussion.

sChool e-newsletteRUnder the supervision of Mr. Lazar, a weekly e-newsletter is published, highlighting the events of the week in both schools. Student committees in both schools are involved in the input and editing of the articles as well as a contributing photographer.


student life at ulpanat orot

leadershipstUdent CoUnCilStudent council consists of a group of four students from grades 10-12. The girls on student council are elected by their peers and spend a year focused on initiating and leading all school wide programs including trips, shabbaton and colour war.

bbQ/bonfiResEvery year the student council organizes sister pairs between grade 9 and grade 12 students and grade 10 and grade 11 students. Those pairs are then grouped into “families.” Throughout the year there are a series of programs geared toward facilitating relationship building within sister pairs and families. At the beginning of each year, the grade 9 students and grade 12 students have a bbq together at a student’s home where they enjoy good food, good company, divrei Torah and fun ice breaker activities. Similarly, in every September there is a school bonfire where ‘families’ join together for some friendly competition and inspirational singing.

lUnCh pRogRaMThe grade 12 fundraising committee sells lunches every year as a way to raise funds for their grad trip. All students and faculty have the opportunity to order lunches from various Toronto vendors including Tov-Li, Ba-Li Laffa, Golden Chopsticks and more.

w.o.w. (woMen of the woRld)Grade 11 and 12 students participate in W.O.W., a program inaugurated in 2010 with the goal of exposing our grade 11 and 12 students to outstanding women who have made a difference in their fields. By inviting guests to Ulpana, we introduce our students to influential women whom they otherwise would not have met. These seminars allow students the chance to discuss opportunities for women in an intimate setting with question and answer sessions focused on what is the near future for our students. Speakers have included: Senator Linda Frum, Phyllis Yaffe (Chairman of Cineplex Galaxy) and Hon. Kellie Leitch MP, Minister of Labour and Minister for Status of Women.

yoUth philanthRopiC initiatiVeThe Youth Philanthropy Initiative is a one-of-a-kind experience that engages young people in social change and empowers them to participate in the growth of compassionate communities. Ulpanat Orot chose to participate in the Toskan Foundation’s Youth Philanthropic Initiative (YPI) as a way to engage youth in understanding local community needs and the values of community service and philanthropy. The culminating activity of the program is a ten-

“serving as stUdent coUncil president at Ulpana was an incredible

experience that provided Me with treMendoUs opportUnities for

leadership and personal growth. i felt privileged to be able to coordinate and participate in

school wide prograMs, and derived great satisfaction froM seeing a

great school spirit coMe together

resUlting froM those efforts.”

- Racheli Samuel (‘11)


minute student presentation on their chosen charity. Four Grade 10 finalist groups present to judges consisting of previous year’s winners and faculty members. The “winning” registered charitable organization is awarded a cheque for $5,000.00, provided by The Toskan Foundation.

athleticsbasketballThe basketball team is open to all qualifying Ulpana students. The Ulpana Knights basketball team recently joined the SSAF (Small Schools Athletic Federation) where they play games against other private schools with similar enrollment sizes. The season typically lasts from October-December. Each February, the team travels to various basketball tournaments including the annual Hyman P. Galbut Girls’ Basketball Shabbaton in Miami.

CRoss CoUntRyThe Cross Country team is open to all students who qualify. Practices are held in the fall and spring. The team competes in the Hanukkah Hustle in Hamilton, a fundraiser for a seniors fitness centre in the Hamilton community and run every Friday.

VolleyballUlpana’s volleyball team consists of a group of athletic young women dedicated to the sport. The team tryouts are held in the fall and they play a number of games against Tanenbaum CHAT as well as other SSAF teams.

tennisThis year is the inaugural year of the Ulpanat Orot tennis program. Students will have the opportunity to compete in a one day tournament with students from the Small Schools Association in February held at Mayfair Tennis Club.

community serviceChessed CoMMitteeThe Chessed Committee is organized by grade 12

staff:Ms. MiriaM bessin Athletics [email protected]


students and creates opportunities for students to get involved in various activities with partnered community organizations. Additionally, the committee organizes various chessed inspired trips throughout the year as well as an annual Mother-Daughter Evening for students and their mothers, grandmothers and sisters, the proceeds of which are donated to tzedakah.

yaChad: Every Tuesday, Yachad runs a dance class in Ulpana. Many Ulpana students dance together with Yachad members for fitness and fun. Additionally, Ulpana students look forward to the several Yachad shabbatons throughout the year, with some serving on Yachad’s leadership board.

artsChoiRUlpana is well known for its outstanding choir. Students have the opportunity to be involved with our school choir which performs several times throughout the year at various events including our

school shabbaton and annual Mother-Daughter evening. The choir is run by several Grade 12 choir heads who select the songs and coordinate the arrangements. Students also record a CD in a professional recording studio which is sold as a fundraiser for charity.

Rabbanit pURiMRabbanit Purim is one of the longstanding Ulpana traditions. In the spirit of Purim, Grade 11 students write, direct and choreograph a play. They are responsible for ticket sales and for organizing a raffle which takes place during the intermission. At the end of the play, the Rabbanit Purim is announced. She is the student elected by her peers to lead the

“in grade 12 i was fortUnate to be one of the co-directors of the Ulpana

choir. looking back, i now realize that i gained vital skills not only in harMony coMposition, bUt in

leadership and teaM work as well, that have allowed Me to contribUte as a

MeMber of the peer leading teaM for science Majors at york University.”

- Michal Sheinis (‘11)


school the week preceding Purim. Proceeds from ticket and raffle sales are donated to tzedakah.

dRaMa ClUb The Ulpanat Orot’s first ever musical production is a much anticipated event, taking place in April. All interested actresses, singers, dancers, stagehands, artists, and musicians will meet after school to hone in on their theatrical talents and produce a noteworthy production.

additional learninGMeChanChotEach grade is assigned a teacher as their Grade Advisor. That teacher is responsible for the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of each student in her grade. Mechanchot run programming, organize grade shabbatonim and trips, meet with each student several times throughout the year and are available to students often throughout each day.

MatMidotA new initiative at Ulpana, the matmidot program gives interested students the background and tools to become leaders in the community both in the areas of halacha and hashkafa. Students participating in matmidot meet 3 times a week, twice during lunch and once after school. The halacha is learned from the mekorot, trying to see the development of halacha through the generations from the gemara

“froM the early planning stages to the night of the play, taking part in the

grade 11 rabbanit pUriM prodUction was an Unforgettable experience. each of Us in oUr own

way learned a great deal aboUt teaM-work, leadership and Meeting tight deadlines. the experience also gave Us the opportUnity to hone oUr cre-

ative skills - whether in writing, acting, singing, dancing, technology,

costUMes, fUndraising, set design... or all of the above!”

- Stephanie Bergman (‘12)


rishonim to modern day application. This year’s topic is centered on hilchot shabbat. The hashkafa component looks at a variety of topics throughout the year and is led by various members of the staff.

lUnCh and leaRnLunch and Learns occur once a month in honour of Rosh Chodesh. It is an opportunity for students to learn about the new month with various faculty members across both disciplines who have given shiurim on a wide range of topics. Although Lunch and Learns are optional they are well attended and much enjoyed.

paRent leaRning institUteOnce a month, mothers are invited to Ulpanat Orot to learn Torah from their daughters’ teachers on topics that their daughters are learning about. This provides parents with greater insight into the Ulpana learning environment as well as allowing them the opportunity to further their Torah knowledge.

MotheR daUghteR leaRning and

fatheR daUghteR leaRningEach year parents are invited to come learn, b’chavruta, with their daughters. These events take

place after school with delicious dinner, a great guest speaker, and great fun for both parents and their daughters.

yiMei iyUnThroughout the year, speakers from the Ulpana faculty and from the community come to Ulpana to focus on various halachic and hashkafic topics. Yimei Iyun allow students the opportunity of Torah learning lishma and provides them with the opportunity to explore Torah subjects not covered in class.

eMUnah and MaChshaVa ClUbOnce a week, students are invited to come learn about Emunah, belief in G-d, belief in Torah, the chosen status of the Jewish people, and related topics that they ask about in class but now have a forum for in a more intimate and less pressured setting.

shoot ClUb (QUestions and answeRs)

Once a week, students can opt to sit with a Rabbi and ask him any questions they would like. Much growth and learning takes place over coffee and questions while students simultaneously develop relationships with a Rav and become more comfortable with asking shailot.


beit MidRash leaRning The YU Kollel provides the Ulpana students with Beit Midrash learning skills on a 1-on-1 basis and in groups. Students are sent on a scavenger hunt to discover first hand what a Rishon is, what a halachic source is, how to read an unseen Hebrew text. This opportunity is made available to students both on a need basis and as a mandatory class ‘trip’ as students begin papers and need to develop independent research skills.

daVening insights with the yU

kollelInterested students meet weekly with a member of the YU Torah MiTzion Kollel to explore tefillah in depth, gaining appreciation for the words, themes and messages of tefillot. Students walk away with a deeper connection and understanding of tefilah.

cluBs and committeesAt Ulpanat Orot, students have the opportunity to participate in clubs and / or committees including chess, photography, book, environmental, and even cholent clubs. Clubs vary year-to-year based on interest and student leadership. Students are encouraged to speak to club heads if they are interested in initiating a new club or committee at the Bnei Akiva Schools. Clubs must have a staff liason supervising the activities in order to be an official school club. Recent clubs have included:

inteRgeneRational book ClUbMrs. Fixler and a group of students meet monthly with a group of senior citizens to discuss a new and

different book. This club is an exciting opportunity for students to read different books than what they’re reading in class, as well as an opportunity to further develop sensitivity to others within our community.

aRts and theatRe ClUbThe club offers opportunities for Ulpana students to explore various, multifaceted artistic experiences in Toronto, including theatre, opera, art galleries and symphonies.

“bnei akiva schools offered a variety of cocUrricUlar activities that

enhanced My acadeMic and social experiences in school. i look back on

these prograMs with very fond MeMo-ries, and recognize that throUgh My

involveMent, i gained leadership skills, learned teaMwork and forMed friend-

ships that continUe to gUide Me today.”

- Nediva Koschitzky (‘11)

staff:Mrs. yael gelernterAssistant [email protected] ext 34

Mrs. Gelernter oversees the co-curricular programme at Ulpanat Orot. She works with student council, ensuring the smooth-running of programs, nurturing school spirit and developing programs that encourage religious and spiritual growth. Additionally, many other teachers are involved directly with specific programs, clubs and events.


tehilliM gRoUpA group of students meet every day at the conclusion of Tefillah to recite a Perek of Tehillim together, inspiring reflective thought on the words and ideas behind the passages of this ancient book. By the end of each school year, they plan to finish all five of the books of Tehillim and participate in multiple Siyums.

Chess ClUbMr. Graham, a ranked chess player, challenges our students to match his strategies in the game of chess. This club meets weekly and any student can join at any time during the year.

CURRent eVents A group of motivated students interested in politics and current events established the Ulpanat Orot Current Events Committee, which has expanded to include a popular Facebook page and eye-catching bulletin board. The board is updated weekly, headlining current events.

intRaMURalsOnce a week there are pickup games in the school gym during lunch. Each week the intramural coaches

change the sport. It is a great way to foster healthy competition amongst peers while also promoting physical well being during the school day.

alUMni MentoRingAn initiative started by an alumni teacher, Mrs. Fixler (‘99), students create partnerships with alumni who have similar professional interests. Alumni guide and mentor our current students, continuing their relationship with the Ulpanat Orot community. Our current students appreciate hearing from someone who has had similar experiences and appreciate the wisdom the alumni share with them.

ChinUCh CoMMitteeBnei Akiva Schools takes a student-driven approach to co-curriculars. To encourage positive religious growth during Tfillah, as well as an understanding and appreciation for the centrality of Tzniut, student-led committees have been formed. Motivated students use a relatable approach to inspire and motivate their classmates. Other successful Ulpana student initiatives have included “Acts of Kindness Daily,” as well as “Stop Lashon Harah!

bnei akiva schools leadership

bnei akiva schools faculty

yeshivat or chaim / ulpanat orot student life 2014-2015yeshivat or chaim / ulpanat orot student life 2014-201512

leadershipstUdent CoUnCilStudent council consists of grade 11 and 12 students. Working closely with the administration, they oversee and facilitate programming in the school. Annual activities coordinated by student council include sukkah building, pre-Pesach car wash, school lunch programs, Schoolwide Shabbaton, Sports Day, Winter Activity Day and basketball intramurals. A portion of funds raised by student council is donated to various local and Jewish charities.

gRade RepResentatiVes Grade Representatives consists of students in grades 9 - 11. Their role is to work with student council on supporting and running programming. Grade reps gain valuable leadership experience in student governance and affairs. They make decisions involving school-wide programming and enjoy taking the lead on shaping special activity days.

sUkkah bUildingEvery year the students advertise their sukkah building skills to the community. The students book appointments, create a schedule and go around the community in groups to build upwards of 50 sukkahs. The experience is one of bonding while learning both physical and entrepreneurial skills.

CaR washYearly, our grade 12 students organize a car wash before Pesach. Prior to the car wash, students learn about Halachot of cleaning for Pesach and gain valuable teamwork experience during the day of the

program. A portion of the proceeds benefit Chai Lifeline. The car wash takes place at Or Chaim and students wash upwards of 40 cars in a day. Students enjoy the opportunity to bond outside the classroom and provide a community service.

lUnCh pRogRaMOur student council and lunch committee offer daily lunch options for students to order. Students sample the best Toronto kosher restaurants have to offer with different establishments patronized each day; choices include BBQ, salads, pizza, sushi, laffas, among other delicious choices. Grade 12 students take the initiative in selling lunches to raise money for their Grade 12 trip and in the process gain valuable planning and organization skills. Each year the rising grade looks forward to the time where they will choose what to offer to their peers and take charge of the BBQ.

spoRts dayImmediately after a new student council is elected in May, they begin working on the Sports Day which usually takes place on Yom Yerushalayim. There are many activities scheduled for the day (not just sports!) including volleyball, basketball,

student life at or chaim

“i gained a treMendoUs aMoUnt froM the sUkkah-bUilding experience. i learned

how to plan and schedUle things in the Most cost and tiMe effective Manner

and i also learned how to coMMUnicate with My friends and cUstoMers in ways i

have never done before”

- Uri Frischman (‘14)

bnei akiva schools leadership

bnei akiva schools faculty

13yeshivat or chaim / ulpanat orot student life 2014-2015yeshivat or chaim / ulpanat orot student life 2014-2015

soccer, torah trivia, an art activity, a science activity, musical performance and chess. Grade 11 students are offered an invaluable leadership experience, organizing and scoring the activities. Students appreciate having the opportunity to bond with the school as a whole and see their teachers involved in fun activities beyond the classroom.

intRaMURalsIntramurals take place several days a week during lunch. They are an opportunity for students in different grades to play together on the same team. On occasion, a staff member may be on a team as well. A grade 12 student is elected into the “convener” position, organizing the teams, games and playoffs for the Intramurals teams. Intramurals provide a fun way to unwind during the day and students look forward to seeing who will compete in and ultimately win the playoffs.

aCtiVity dayStudent Council generally runs two Activity Days a year. In addition to Sports Day, Or Chaim hosts a winter activity day. Students choose to ski or participate in an indoor activity such as Skyzone. An opportunity to interact outside of the classroom and within different grades, the Winter Activity Day provides for school bonding and highlighting a different aspect than is seen in the classroom.

oRientation pRogRaMsBefore the school year begins, the grade 9 orientation introduces the students to who they need to know, how their schedules work and what the essential tools required for high school are. Following the academic orientation, the grade 12s welcome the grade 9s with a welcome bbq. The students meet and get to know one another and are arranged into

“big brother / little brother pairings.” Grade 12s share their advice and ideas with the grade 9s and the family feel of Or Chaim is palpable for grade 9s – even before their first class!At the beginning of the current school year, our grade 9s traveled to Moshava Ennismore for a shabbaton to start the year. They had shiurim in small groups with several rabbis, as well as a schmooze session with the student leaders who attended the shabbaton. They enjoyed meals together, singing and davening together and getting a feel for what the school-wide shabbaton will look like in a few months. It was a great opportunity for all students – no matter what elementary school they came from – to get to know one another and become a united group of Or Chaim students.

athleticsbasketballThe school has two basketball teams: Junior Varsity for grade 9 and 10 students and Varsity for grade 11 and 12 students. The teams compete in the TDCAA. The varsity team has the opportunity to play in various tournaments, including Yeshiva University’s Sarachek Tournament in New York. Tryouts for the basketball teams are held at the beginning of the school year and the season typically lasts from September to March.

staff:Mr. gord skarott Athletics [email protected]



CRoss CoUntRyThe Cross Country Running team, open to all students, also competes in the TDCAA. Tryouts and practices start at the beginning of the year and the season typically lasts until the winter.

intRaMURal basketballIn addition to formal teams, Student Council runs a year-long intramural basketball program during the lunch hour. It has been a YOC tradition for years with all student invited to participate and some staff members occasionally joining in as well.

soCCeRThe Soccer team is open to all students who qualify. While the soccer season is typically in the spring

and summer, tryouts and practices usually begin in January. The soccer team also competes in the TDCAA.

community serviceChessed CoMMittee:The Chessed Committee has become one of the most popular committees in the school, as usually more than 1/3 of the grade is interested in being part of the committee. Ultimately, around 5 or 6 students are selected to plan chessed events and fundraisers and encourage activism and volunteerism amongst the student population. It spearheads projects throughout the year, a selection of which are detailed below. In addition, many of the students on the Chessed Committee choose to volunteer their time to these organizations beyond the school setting.

ChaRity Cholent Contest A yearly highlight, our own homemade “Chopped,” the Charity Cholent Contest raises funds for Od Yosef Chai. Students learn how Od Yosef Chai helps

“playing on the basketball, soccer, and cross-coUntry teaMs gave Me the

opportUnity to represent oUr coMMUnity to all types of schools, and show

theM how we can be a top teaM, while reMaining Menschlike. overall, it helped Me grow in a way that is not possible in the classrooM, and i was able to forge

relationships and have an enjoyable tiMe.”

- Akiva Maresky (‘10)


needy families in Israel. They create teams, generally two per grade, and compete to make the tastiest cholent. A panel of esteemed judges, led by Rabbi Spitz and Mrs. Ripsman, taste the cholents and rank them based on taste, texture and visual appeal. The winning team takes home the Cholent Trophy and has bragging rights for the year.

nURsing hoMe Visits:Under the guiding principle of developing active chessed among our students, Or Chaim facilitates at least one nursing home visit a year. In preparation, students in leadership positions plan a program to present at the Home and gain important pointers as to how to communicate with the residents they meet. Often, different groups will meet residents at different cognitive stages and hear wisdom and life stories gained by the residents. Once there, students sing, play musical instruments, schmooze with the residents and assist in the regular programming of the Home.

pesaCh food dRiVeYearly, our grade 10 students assist with Passover Packaging at the National Council for Jewish Women. They learn about those in our community in need and hear about more opportunities to help. It is important as a team-building experience as well, as they work together to package the food.

Matzah bRiCksOur Chessed Committee raises funds for the food drive as well, selling “Matza Bricks.” Each year, our committee manages to improve upon the previous year’s amount, exceeding their goals. Bulletin boards are designated for the Matza Bricks and students try to maximize the board space. The students are always proud of their accomplishment, particularly when they see multiple boards were needed!

zaReinUThe Zareinu Learnathon has become a popular program in its short existence in our school. Students

staff:Mr. gerald lazar Director of Student Life [email protected] ext 37

Mr. Lazar oversees the co-curricular programme at Yeshivat Or Chaim. Working with student council directly, he ensures the smooth-running of programs, the creation of clubs and initiatives and the grade 12 committees. He coordinates the organization of programs run by the school’s religious leadership. Additionally, many other teachers are involved directly with specific programs, clubs and events.


set up their own personal fundraising sites in benefit of Zareinu and then spend time in the Beit Midrash focused on relevant learning. Last year, they met two Zareinu staff members who spoke about how important the funds raised through this program are. Generally, the learning is guided by members of the Yeshiva University Torah MiTzion Beit Midrash, allowing students from all grades to experience a different style of learning lishma.

yaChadMany of our students participate in Yachad programming, an organization dedicated to integrating individuals with special needs into the community. Our students attend shabbatonim and programs. Some of them have also been asked to sit on the Yachad Board. Yachad members have attended occasional mishmars, enjoying the Jam and Torah session in particular.

fRee the ChildRenFree the Children is an organization focused on creating and funding sustainable solutions for African youth in need. Through their Me to We Day event, they hope to inspire activism and involvement from teenagers. At YOC, students have run assemblies to spread awareness on the needs in Africa, as well as facilitate fundraising initiatives. Involvement in this organization has encouraged students to join our Chessed Committee and do what they can to make a difference in the world.

artsChoiRNow in its eighth consecutive year, Yeshivat Or Chaim’s choir has performed at Closing Night of Holocaust Education Week, the school’s shabbaton, the community Yom HaShoah commemoration, as well as Mizrachi’s Yom Hazikaron / Yom Haatzmaut Tekes. The choir is trained by a professional Chazan and creates leadership opportunities for students in various grades. Students have appreciated the opportunity to perform at community events. All students with vocal talents are encouraged to join the choir.

a Cappella gRoUpAfter this past year’s success, the choir has expanded to include an a capella group, which will begin by focusing on Kabbalat Shabbat tunes. Students may join the a capella group, whether they are also in the choir or not. The group trains with a YOC alum who spent a few years in an a cappella group while in university. Choir members were excited to be able to begin their own initiative and expand an already-popular group.

bandA staple for more than a decade, the Yeshivat Or Chaim band offers an opportunity for students with musical talents to perform for the school and, often, other groups as well. Their speciality is infusing current rock songs into classic Jewish tunes. The band performs yearly at the scholwide Shabbaton and has also performed at the Simchat Beit Hashoeva, Netivot’s Yom Haatzmaut program and our Shushan Purim program. Students select the songs to perform and rehearse throughout the year.


additional learninGMishMaRMost Thursdays from 5:30-7:00 PM, students participate in a school wide mishmar program. Mishmar is an opportunity for students to spend extra time learning about a wide array of topics including upcoming Jewish holidays, current events and ethics. On occasion, guest speakers from the community are often invited to address the students as well as well as visiting scholars from Israel and abroad. As well, members of our Judaic studies faculty will run informal classes related to Torah, Jewish music and relevant current Jewish issues.

yoC shabbatonThe Or Chaim Shabbaton is a yearly opportunity for the school to spend a Shabbat together. The grade 12s generally go up early, organizing programming for the rest of the school, including Friday night learning groups. Shabbat includes davening, divrei torah, singing and shmoozing. Programming in the afternoon has included a

shiur with a member of the Yeshiva University Beit Midrash, a nature walk and a “Shmooze” with members of the English department. The Shabbat is a spiritual, community-building experience, allowing our students to interact with each other and some of their teachers in an out-of-classroom, Shabbat atmosphere. Following Havdalah, the boys participate in several activities off-site, including hockey, volleyball or bowling. They then return to dancing led by the Or Chaim band and conclude

when i joined the MatMidiM prograM, it really Made a spiritUal iMpact on My

life. the prograM gives Me the excellent opportUnity to grow in My geMara learning, as well as the chance to

learn torah lishMa. with a pizza lUnch and learn every week, i feel that i have

developed a stronger relationship with the aMazing rebbeiM that devote

theMselves to oUr shiUriM. the MatMidiM prograM has trUly helped Me to grow spiritUally and its benefits are

coUntless.

Eli Weltman, Grade 10


the evening with a bonfire and kumsitz. An annual highlight for students and staff alike - an experience not to be missed!

MatMidiMThe Matmidim program aims at giving our talmidim a greater breadth and depth of gemara understanding Our Matmidim program meets for 4 additional times of learning each week. The learning consists of guided chavruta learning focused on independent learning, chaburah or small groups led by one of our Rabbeim focused on the conceptual analysis of the gemara. A weekly lunch and learn with a different rebbe each week allows for the strengthening of their relationships while covering a wide range of contemporary topics in Jewish thought.

Rebbe shabbatoniMThroughout the year, various Judaic Studies staff open their homes and host shabbatonim for groups of students. Generally, each student will be invited to two “home shabbatonim” with their Gemara

Rebbe during the year. These shabbatons have become an important part of the experience of the Yeshiva. The students enjoy singing together and informally schmoozing about Torah and Judaism.

paRent-stUdent leaRning

pRogRaMsFather-son Sunday morning learning and Mother-son mishmar are two popular programs that have been running for a few years. Learning is generally in chavruta, with a summary at the end by a presenter. Presenters have included members of our staff, as well as community members. Students whose parent cannot attend learn with one of our teachers. These programs are great ways for our students to showcase their learning skills for their parents and take on a different social quality before / after the learning.

yiMei iyUnPrior to several Jewish holidays, including Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur and Pesach, the students spend some time learning about those dates lishma, outside of normal curricular topics. They learn and


discuss Halacha and hashkafa. These Yimei Iyun also provide an opportunity for different styles of learning not always possible in a normal classroom setting.

leaRning with the yU beit

MidRashOur students have the opportunity to learn with members of the Yeshiva University Torah Mitzion Beit Midrash Zichron Dov, permanently housed in Or Chaim’s Beit Midrash. In addition to individual opportunities to learn, students at Or Chaim participate in Divreh Torah and Donuts Friday breakfasts, Bikiut optional lunch program, or lunch ‘n learn programs.

optional bikiUtOnce a week Rabbi Torczyner guides students through Mesechet Megillah following Yeshiva University’s established Bikiut program. An amud is covered each week.

cluBsAt Yeshivat Or Chaim, students have the opportunity to participate in clubs and / or committees. Clubs vary year-to-year based on interest and student leadership. Students are encouraged to speak to members of student council or student activity coordinators if they are interested in initiating a new club or committee. Clubs must have a staff liason supervising the activities in order to be an official school club. Some recent clubs have included:

Chess ClUbMr. Graham, a ranked chess player, challenges our students to match his strategics in the game of chess. This club meets weekly and any student can join at any time during the year.

inVestMent ClUbOverseen by Mr. Solomon, this club teaches students valuable business skills through interactive means. The club went to a TD Seminar last year, and competed in a simulated stock market exchange program.

enViRonMent CoMMitteeA grass-roots, student-based movement, staff have been thrilled to see students take up this cause within the school. The students in this committee work on brainstorming initiatives related to how the school can improve its environment. They have been working hard to encourage recycling so that papers and cardboards do not end up in garbages.

bUsiness ClUbA new initiative this year, students hear from various guest speakers who have been successful in business. Students gain from the wisdom and experience from speakers. They appreciate the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable post-secondary and work tips.

Date post:	07-Apr-2016
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