Robbins Hebrew Academy

BUILDING PRINCIPLED LEADERS: IT'S WHY OUR STUDENTS RISE ABOVE Integrity, responsibility, empathy – they are the values we teach day in and out. So it's no surprise our students gave back this year in remarkable ways. Our grade eight graduating class led the way with their legacy project. They've raised money to fund scholarships for kids who want to come to RHA, but might not be able to afford it. The fund will provide help for families entering JK and SK. Our grade six students were awe-inspiring. In thinking about how to make a difference in the world, one student – Coco Einarsen – made bracelets and sold them online on behalf of the Autism Society. She's receiving an award from the organization on the last day of school. Each RHA class was twinned with a United Chesed family in need of help and our kids provided food for them. The grade two class shared their Pesach model seder with the residents of Baycrest, where they sang, danced and visited with the seniors. For some residents, this was the only seder they would have. At RHA, Tikkun Olam begins with our youngest. JK students designed their own Tzedakah boxes and then filled them up all year long and will visit Kavanah Gardens to present them with their contributions. SK collected books and hand delivered them to a less-privileged school. And here is something really special – and a perfect example of critical thinking and Tikkun Olam all wrapped up in one. Our JK classes received a grant from the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada because they designed a student-led project that benefits the community and the environment. Students made flower pots and a card that express the relationship between Shabbat and the environment. Then they took them to Baycrest for a Shabbat celebration with the residents, including singing, dancing and storytelling. Compassion and citizenship are our cultural cornerstones and at the heart of building lifelong character in our kids – as individuals and as Jews. f i v e

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