SCHOOL THIS SUNDAY 12/10 FOR TK-7TH

Shalom Parents,

I hope this message finds you all well as we navigate these dynamic times together.

A Pioneering Israel in Times of Was Education Summit in NY

This week, Morah Limor, our Tech Academy teacher, and I had the privilege of attending a remarkable Israel Education Summit in New York. This summit, titled "Meeting the Moment: Israel and Jewish Peoplehood Education in a Time of War," was hosted by the Jewish Education Project in partnership with M2, The Institute for Jewish Experiential Education, The iCenter, and RootOne. This initiative was focused on enhancing Jewish and Israel education amidst the war in Israel and current challenges.

Being part of this summit was an incredibly inspiring experience. It brought together passionate Jewish and Israel educators, all dedicated to finding the best practices to support our schools, students, and families during these challenging times. The discussions and workshops focused on how we can effectively address the complexities of the current situation in Israel, which started on October 7th, and its impact on our Jewish and Israeli identities. The summit's insights are a valuable addition to our educational approach, particularly in these pivotal times. We are committed to nurturing our students' Jewish identity and connection to Israel, equipping them with empathy and resilience.

Hanukkah: A Beacon of Resilience

As I am writing you these words on the first night of Hanukkah, our thoughts turn to the Jewish and Israeli people. We are reminded of the Maccabees, whose small yet united and strong front overcame great challenges. Today, we aspire for a similar miracle - a triumph of unity and peace, and the safe return of our hostages. This would be a powerful testament to our enduring spirit, echoing the message of Hanukkah: despite adversity in every generation, Am Yisrael (the people of Israel) remains strong and unwavering. ביחד ננצח (Together we will prevail). עם ישראל חי Am Israel Chai!

Your Donations Matter

While we are grateful for the contributions received so far, there is still an opportunity to participate. Your support is crucial in helping us continue providing enriching and engaging learning experiences in Hebrew, Jewish studies and fostering a strong connection with Israel.

Here are the areas where your donations can make a significant impact:

"Halleli Nafshi" Kids Siddurim: Enhance our students' spiritual journey with these specially designed prayer books.

7th Grade Tzedek America Tikkun Olam Program: Empower our 7th graders to put the Jewish value of repairing the world into action.

General ECLC Programs: Support our inclusive Shabbat dinners, family events, and other dynamic educational experiences.

Every contribution brings us closer to our goals and strengthens our ECLC community. We deeply appreciate your consideration and support in helping our school thrive.

WE STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH ISRAEL

Supporting Israel is an imperative of Jewish life.

Valley Beth Shalom stands and will always stand in solidarity with Israel.

Update: It's been a bittersweet week in Israel as we have returned 110 Children and women. However, we still have 136 captured in Gaza.

Help bring them home.

JOIN US FOR SHABBAT BYACHAD!

Shabbat B'Yachad (Junior Congregation)

Saturday, December 9th at 10:30 am

Join VBS Rabbis, Cantors, and kids for a new Shabbat service designed specifically for elementary-aged students and their families.

Together you will learn about the Shabbat morning service, lead prayers, and join with the community after services for Kiddush lunch.

Suggested for kids in grades K-6 and their families--all families are welcome.

ALL ECLC FAMILIES INVITED TO

SUPER MACCABEE WORLD

Join the VBS community for Super Maccabee World!

Sunday, December 10, 2023!

Real-Life Mario Kart With Go-Kart Track | Super Mario Game Truck | Mario Kart Video Game Competition | Mario the Maccabee Craft Corner | Planet Blue Blocks | Bounce Houses | Photo Booth with Props | Maccabee Mocktail Bar | DJ, Dancers and Super Mario Characters | PLUS...

December 6 is the last day to pre-order food.

There will be SOME for purchase on-site, but we can't guarantee it unless you pre-order.

Secure your tickets and food ahead of time, and Emily and I hope to see you all there!

Learn more about the awesome games and activities that await you!

Consider becoming a Sponsor!

Donations directly support scholarships to Jewish Summer Camp and Israel Programs for VBS Youth!

ECLC PARENTS SOCIAL - COFFEE AND SCHMOOZE WITH OUR RABBIS

ECLC FAMILY (TK-7TH) HANUKKIAH LIGHTING! TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12TH AT 5:45 PM

Bring your own Hanukkah and candles, and let's get our glow on together!

Please join us in Sher Lopaty at 5:45 pm for a brief Shira with Cantor Rafii, and then we will light our candles on our hanukkiahs and snack on latkas together.

This is a free event for the entire ECLC community!

ECLC EVENT - HOW TO TALK TO OUR KIDS

 ABOUT THE WAR IN ISRAEL

WITH DR. SIVAN ZAKAI

Dear ECLC Families,

I am excited to invite our ECLC families to a very important and timely event tomorrow, Thursday, December 14th at 7:30 pm. In collaboration with the Jewish Federation, jKidLA, and BJE LA, please join a webinar featuring Dr. Sivan Zakai, a renowned expert in Israel Education.

As my professor at AJU and a world scholar, Dr. Zakai specializes in how children understand the conflict in Israel. She will share insights from her decade-long research, captured in her book "My Second Favorite Country: How American Jewish Children Think about Israel." The session will guide us on when and how to talk to children about these challenging topics.

Please RSVP HERE 

For more information on Dr. Sivan Zakai and her work, Click here.

Here is her recent book as well.

Dear ECLC Families,   We are excited to announce our new Referral Program! If you're enjoying your experience with us and know other families who would benefit from our enriching environment, now is the perfect time to spread the word.   For every new family that you refer to ECLC and who enrolls, you'll receive a 10% discount on your tuition. It's our way of saying "thank you" for helping our community grow.   Please note that the discount applies to one family per referral and can accumulate up to a maximum of 15% off your family's tuition.   Start sharing the joy of ECLC today and enjoy the rewards!   CLICK HERE to learn more!

Chloe Yadidi   December 16   Parents: Delaram Ghadishah & Yoram Yadidi

Landon Euell   December 23  Parents: Leslie & William Euell

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