President’s Message
As the president of the Talmud Torah Society, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2010-2011 Talmud Torah school year.
This year, the Society and our school staff will be focused on the following three priorities:
- Respectful Environment
- Academic Excellence
- Increased Enrollment
A Respectful Environment
The school is continuing to implement the Olweus Program: a results-oriented internationally recognized program to not only deal with bullying, but to create a respectful environment for students, teachers, administration and parents.
Academic Excellence
Our graduates continue to excel most of whom attain honours standing in High School. Last year, the Vice-Principal of Ross Sheppard High School visited our school many times and actively encouraged our Grade 9 graduating students to attend their school.
In Hebrew, the school is expanding the TalAm program to now include K-3. Elements of the program are also being introduced to older grades. The program will continue being implemented up to grade 6 over the next few years. In addition to TalAm, we will also explore ways to meet the needs of students whose first language is Hebrew.
Our Theatre Arts Program, after a successful pilot last year, will expand to include all grades and include music and dance this year with 2 planned performances. This program gives our students an opportunity to build their confidence, creativity and build skills in teamwork and communication.
Enrichment in Math and Science for Jr. High: This year we have hired EPSB math and science consultants to work with our Math and Science teacher throughout the year.
Increased Enrollment
Our new Executive Director, Frida Pesin, has already evaluated how the school can better serve families where both parents are working or single parents. As a result, we will be providing both Before and After School Care (OSC) options for parents this year.
In addition to OSC services, we are working on the following items to increase enrollment:
- Develop plans to reduce tuition
- Expand our community presence and profile through the increased use of our building by Jewish organizations
- Create a relationship management strategy for current and prospective parents, grandparents
- Welcome all Jewish children to our school. Provide extra support for incoming children, celebrate diversity, and communicate more in Hebrew and Russian.
I encourage all parents to support and participate in these initiatives.
I look forward to a productive year and to your feedback.
Sincerely,
David Weisz
President, Talmud Torah Society
