A New Year and lots to celebrate at CJA

By Joseph Tappenden

(Calgary) – The start of the school year is always filled with excitement, and this year at the Calgary Jewish Academy has been no different. We are thrilled to share that the beginning of the academic year has been incredibly smooth, thanks to the collective efforts of our dedicated staff, eager students, and supportive parents. Their commitment and enthusiasm have set the tone for what promises to be an enriching year ahead. Our staff have been working tirelessly over the summer to ensure that classrooms were ready to welcome students for another year of meaningful learning. From preparing engaging lessons to creating a warm and inviting classroom atmosphere, our teachers have set the stage for a year filled with academic growth and personal development.

The beginning of the school year is always a time for reconnecting with familiar faces and welcoming new ones. We are delighted to have several new families join our school community, and we look forward to watching them thrive here. With this growth in enrollment we are proud to share that many of our grades now have two classes, a testament to the thriving nature of our school community. In addition to new families, we have welcomed several new teachers across various grade levels, each bringing their unique expertise and passion for education.

As we settle into the rhythm of the new school year, we are also eagerly preparing for the upcoming High Holidays. The students will soon begin exploring the rich traditions and meanings behind Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Simchat Torah. These holidays not only offer valuable learning opportunities but also allow us to come together as a community to celebrate and reflect.

We are particularly excited to welcome Rabbi Russell Jayne from Beth Tzedec Congregation, who will be joining us throughout the High Holidays. Rabbi Russ’ visit will enhance our classroom learning and we are all looking forward to hearing him blow the Shofar.

For Sukkot, students will learn about the holiday’s agricultural and spiritual roots and will also have the opportunity to participate in the mitzvot of Sukkot, including, shaking the Lulav and etrog, and eating in the Sukkah. Spending time in the sukkah, sharing stories and meals, is always a special experience for the students, helping to create a deeper connection to our traditions.

Our celebrations will culminate with Simchat Torah, a joyous holiday that marks the completion and restarting of the annual Torah reading cycle. As part of the festivities, we will gather as a school community for Hakafot, where students and staff will sing, dance, and celebrate with the Torah. This event brings an extra layer of joy to our community, as it highlights the importance of learning and spirituality in a fun, celebratory way.

We are truly excited for what lies ahead this year. The Calgary Jewish Academy is ready for a year of learning, community, and celebration. We can’t wait to see what the future holds as we embark on this journey together.