The Gift of Books
By Amy Schwartz, Director, PJ Library & jkidphilly / In the children’s book, Thank you, Trees, by Gail Langer Karwoski and Marilyn E. Gootman, it reads, “On Tu BiShvat we thank each tree, for all it gives to you and me.” I think of this sentiment and how it is also a metaphor for books themselves and the gifts of learning, wondering, and imagining they can provide.
Gabby’s Venture
By Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Program Director for Special Needs / The story of my Jewish learning venture tells how my personal life has influenced and empowered my work professionally. The presentation below is intended to be read silently.
Elana’s Venture
By Elana Rivel, Associate Director / The story of my Jewish venture begins when I was about 8 years old and I accompanied my mother to her religious school class. As a day school kid, I was able to help the 4th and 5th graders she taught with their Hebrew and prayer studies. I loved being helpful and, more importantly, loved teaching Hebrew and prayer. I knew then that my life path would take me somewhere in Jewish education. Throughout high school and college, I progressed along this path.