Edmonton Talmud Torah Society’s New Gr. 6 Graduation Program

By: Natalie Soroka

(AJNews) – It has been an extra special year for Grade 6 students from Edmonton Talmud Torah. In addition to organizing the upcoming Grade 6 Shabbaton, Talmud Torah Society (TTS) aimed to make their final year a memorable one by launching a year-long graduation program. The objective of the program has been to provide students with a meaningful and engaging final year—one that equips them with essential life skills, fosters personal growth, encourages community involvement, and deepens their connection to Jewish heritage. With Marit Abrams, a grade nine Class of 2005 TT alumnus leading the program and incorporating valuable input from students and parents, the TTS Graduation Committee focused on key projects centered around community service, family heritage, and life skills development.

As part of their community service efforts, students gathered at Talmud Torah to prepare over 200 lunches for the Inner City Pastoral Ministry Sunday Lunch Program on Sunday, December 22, 2024. This initiative was coordinated through Netta Phillet and Beth Shalom Synagogue to support inner city residents struggling with food insecurity. Later, on March 2nd, Beth Israel Synagogue organized its annual Jewish Community Lunch at the Bissell Centre, where students contributed food donations, helped with pickup and drop-off logistics, and distributed meals to inner-city residents. For Purim, they met one Sunday at Beth Israel Synagogue to pack 150 Mishloach Manot bags for synagogue members.

Students also participated in two intergenerational programs, one through the Jewish Seniors’ Centre on Sunday, April 27, 2025, where they assisted with the Sunday breakfast program by setting tables, making coffee, and preparing for the event. As seniors arrived, students welcomed them warmly, engaged in conversation, guided them to their seats, and helped serve the meal.

The other experience was on Yom Ha’atzmaut, where bubbies, zaides and other community members were invited to Talmud Torah on May 1, 2025 for an intergenerational tea and assembly. After introducing themselves to guests, grade six students served tea and then sat down and had very meaningful and enjoyable conversations. Our guests were very keen on learning about their interests, families, and experiences at TT. Students gained confidence and insight as they asked and answered questions of our guests. Both of these programs fostered a sense of community and mutual appreciation while reinforcing the Jewish values of tzedakah and tikkun olam. They also deepened students’ understanding of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility.

Another important initiative was the family tree project, which gave students a unique opportunity to explore their ancestry and connect with their personal roots. With guidance from Marit, students worked with their families and researched their lineage, uncovering stories about their ancestors and the cultural significance of their surnames. By learning about their family histories, students developed a greater appreciation for the rich heritage that shapes their identities today.

Students also participated in an antisemitism training program supported by the Jewish Federation of Edmonton. One Sunday in January, Marit led discussions on historical and contemporary antisemitism, helping students understand the challenges their ancestors faced and the ongoing importance of standing up against discrimination. Through these sessions, students gained valuable insights into Jewish resilience and the significance of preserving their heritage while combating hate and injustice in today’s world. It also provided them with perspective on antisemitism they might, unfortunately, experience as they leave the safe and warm embrace of their community and enter a mainstream public school for Junior High.

The TTS Graduation Program also emphasized life skill development through sessions like Finance 101 and Transportation 101. These workshops introduced students to practical knowledge, such as managing finances, navigating public transportation, and reading maps— essential skills that will prepare them for greater independence as they transition beyond elementary school.

The culmination of this enriching program will be the TTS Grade 6 Shabbaton, scheduled for June 6-8, 2025, at Camp BB-Riback. This special weekend, including students from Calgary Jewish Academy, is an opportunity to reflect on their elementary school journey, celebrate their growth, embrace their Jewish learning and prepare for the next chapter in their education.

With a year full of learning, giving, and personal development, students from Edmonton Talmud Torah have made the most of their final year. As they move forward, they carry with them invaluable lessons in community, heritage, and independence—foundations that will guide them in the years ahead. Mazal Tov to the Grade 6 Class of 2025! We can’t wait to see all the mountains you will conquer.