September at Edmonton Talmud Torah: A Month of Connection, Celebration, and Reflection

Editors note: The province-wide teachers strike has impacted Talmud Torah teachers in Edmonton. They are among the 51,000 teachers that have been on strike since Oct. 6 after negotiations broke down between the government and the Alberta Teachers Association.  Premier Danielle Smith has indicated that the Alberta government will table back-to-work legislation on Monday October 28 that seeks to end the strike. 

By Natalie Soroka

(AJNews) – September was filled with joy and meaningful moments across the Edmonton Talmud Torah Society (TTS) community. The Early Learning Centre began the month with a lively and heartwarming welcome-back event that brought together children, families, and staff. The event featured music, activities and, of course, ice cream — a perfect treat to mark the start of another exciting chapter together. Laughter and smiles filled the space as families reconnected after the summer and new faces were warmly welcomed into the Talmud Torah Early Learning and Out of School Care community. Ari, the beloved TT lion mascot, added to the fun with plenty of hugs, high fives, and photo-worthy moments that captured the spirit of togetherness and joy that defines our school community.

TTS also proudly unveiled a state-of-the-art gym projection system, featuring a 208” ceiling-mounted screen and a 7,000-lumen projector. This upgrade replaces the old “cart-and-sheet” setup, making assemblies safer, smoother, and more engaging. Funded by the TTS, and a generous grant from the Edmonton Jewish Community Charitable Foundation, the new system enhances how we gather, share, and celebrate together.

Students participated in two meaningful experiences that brought reflection and purpose to the month: the ritual of Tashlich and the Terry Fox Run at Gold Bar Park. By the North Saskatchewan River, they symbolically cast away their misdeeds to welcome the new year. Later, they ran with spirit and determination, honouring loved ones and supporting cancer research—beautifully embodying the values of compassion and community.

Amid these moments of joy and connection, we also paused to remember and mourn the loss of two beloved members of our community.

Randy Soifer z”l was a lifelong member of the Edmonton Talmud Torah community and a proud graduate of the Class of ’65. Together with his wife Jane, Randy sent all four of their children through Talmud Torah K–9, continuing a deep family tradition of connection to our school. His leadership and dedication left a lasting mark—he served in many roles, including President, Treasurer, and Building Chair—where his wisdom and vision helped bring our current school building to life. His love for Edmonton Talmud Torah was evident in everything he did, and his presence will be profoundly missed.

We also mourn the loss of Gail Buck z”l, who dedicated many years as a volunteer on the Talmud Torah Society’s Parents’ Auxiliary, organizing pizza lunches and supporting school life with warmth and care. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband Brian and children Ethan, Ezra, and Sophie—all proud graduates of Edmonton Talmud Torah.

May the memories of Randy and Gail be a blessing to their families and to our entire community.