Latke-palooza at the Gan

The leaves are falling, there's a chill in the air, and Hanukkah has arrived at the Gan. The children spent the last few weeks learning all about Hanukkah: lighting the menorah, spinning the dreidel, and the miracle of the oil.

And what would Hanukkah be without latkes? Each class prepared their own batch of delicious latkes and enjoyed them with applesauce or sour cream.

The students learned about following instructions, measuring amounts, taking turns, and how cooking changes raw ingredients.

A good latke was had by all! Thank you to our parent volunteers!

Back To School Night 2013

The 2013-2014 school year is finally running at full speed after a month of New Year celebrations.

All the parents convened for Back to School night in Early October.

We began with a potluck of sweets and warm Fall evening conversation in the courtyard.

After hugs for new friends and old, we moved to our children's respective classrooms.

We began with exploring the classroom through our children's eyes.  We built block towers, painted, experimented with play-dough.

We got a peek into our children's day through walls and walls of photos of our children in action.

Then we gathered in a circle to dialogue with the teachers.

We learned what the teachers' envisioned for our children this year - to delight in learning, to connect with peers, to build confidence in their passions and abilities.

At the end of the night, we went home with hearts full of appreciation for the gifts of love, care, and wisdom that the Gan Avraham team provide our children each day.

Curious if Gan Avraham is the right place for your child?  Email Barbara Kanter at barbara[at]tbaoakland[dot]org.

Warmly,
Jessica (Michaelson) Zapruder
Mother of two Gan students (ages 2 and 4)

A new year is here!

"It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me
And I'm feeling good!"

A new year is here! Last week the Gan welcomed a new Kitah Alef class to the community and welcomed back the returning Kitah Bet and Gimmel classes. Though it was a short week, the students had a great time exploring their new classrooms, saying hello to old friends, and initiating new friendships. During the first week the children learned about Rosh Hashanah and the significance of blowing the shofar, and got to taste apples and honey for a sweet new year. 

The Women of TBA also sponsored a back-to-school coffee and pastry get-together in the Chapel--a chance for new and returning parents to mix, mingle, and commiserate. 

We look forward to a happy and sweet year here at Gan Avraham!