President’s Message
The hallways are once again alive with the sound of children’s voices, backpacks slung over their shoulders, and smiles lighting up their faces. The start of the school year always brings energy and renewal. Parents are grateful to be back, and our staff and teachers, under the leadership of Nora Anderson, Susy Novak, Mara Berger, and Jodi Barras, have worked tirelessly to make this opening as seamless as possible.
And just as our students are settling into their classrooms, we, too are entering a sacred season of growth, reflection and recommitment. The High Holidays are right around the corner, a time when we gather as a community to take stock of the year past and envision the year ahead. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with our Jewish traditions, loved ones, and a sense of purpose. Whether you have been at Temple Beth Am for decades or have just joined our congregation, these Days of Awe are a chance to feel the strength and warmth of our temple family.
A special thanks to our lay leaders in concert with our professionals, who make the high holidays flow so well that our only job is to sit back and enjoy these moments of introspection. A special thanks to Jay Koren who has led our usher team this year (yasher koach to all the ushers for their commitment of time during the holidays) and to our vice president of religious practices, Alex Moskovitz, for taking care of all the choreography and special honors for all services.
This year, I invite you to approach Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur not only as days on the calendar but as moments to pause, listen, and engage. Come to services. Volunteer. Share a meal. Bring a friend. Make space for prayer, music, and conversations that leave your heart a little fuller.
As we begin 5786 together, may this be a year filled with health, meaning, and joy for you and those you love. I look forward to greeting you during the holidays and to a year of learning, celebration, and service.
Shanah Tovah,
Shelley Jacoby