Todah Rabah to the Grade 8 families who joined us for Kabbalat Shabbat! It was a true pleasure to meet the families of the Class of 2028 and share in the joy of welcoming the Shabbat together, continuing a cherished King David tradition. The warmth and spirit of community felt during this special moment set a beautiful tone for the year ahead.

On Friday, the Atrium was filled with students for the start of a new King David tradition, a special monthly school-wide Kabbalat Shabbat. Grade 12 students were excited to welcome everyone to participate in this special tradition in Jewish life, one that has been celebrated for thousands of years. Shabbat is a time for reflection and connection and by lighting candles, reciting the blessings over the wine and challah, singing Shabbat songs, and being with friends, an atmosphere of peace and joy permeated the building. To close the Kabbalat Shabbat, everyone was invited to stand and sing Hatikvah as a symbol of our connection as the Jewish people to the land of Israel and our hope for the future.

At King David, our students are taking the lead in creating dynamic and engaging learning environments. Through collaborative spaces, students are not just participants but active leaders in classroom conversations, guiding discussions, sharing ideas, and learning from each other. This student-led approach fosters meaningful and deeper learning experiences.

The first week has been a vibrant and engaging experience for students and staff alike. Kicking off with a school-wide assembly, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation for the new academic year. After a round of applause from students as they were welcomed back by Deputy Head of School, Alex Monchamp, new Head of School, Dr. Seth Goldsweig, addressed the students welcoming them to a year filled with possibility! Rabbi Berger led us in prayer for Israel and the six hostages tragically killed in Gaza.

As the new Head of School, I am honoured and excited to welcome you all to what promises to be an extraordinary school year. Joining such a dynamic and dedicated community is a privilege, and I look forward to the many opportunities we will have to grow together. Have you heard? The school is now in its 20th year on Willow Street! That is quite a milestone.

As we look back on a challenging year, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your support. Your generosity has brought life to our school and promises a bright future for King David!
TODAH RABAH! GRACIAS! MERCI! THANK YOU!

For so many years we have been sending this final email of the year, “It’s a Wrap!”. This year, as I prepare to retire after 16 truly life-changing years as the Head of School of this magical community, my heart is filled with gratitude and cherished memories. Together, we have built a community rooted in Jewish values, academic excellence, and a profound sense of belonging. It may be a wrap for this school year, and for my leading with you all at King David, but as they always do, new beginnings await for all of us.

Last week, students and staff gathered in the Atrium for King David’s annual Heart of a Lion Athletics Recognition assembly. The Heart of a Lion is given to one student athlete from each team who demonstrates excellent sportsmanship and teamwork, a positive attitude, competitive spirit, and integrity, as well as respect for opponents, officials, fans, and coaches. These are athletes who illustrate the true spirit of friendly competition while showing PRIDE on and off the court, and make a positive impact on the learning environment. Mazal Tov to all our athletes and teams!

Last night, families, friends, alumni, King David staff, and students filled Beth Israel as we all came together to celebrate the King David High School Class of 2024. Our Deputy Head of School, Alex Monchamp was the evening’s Master of Ceremonies and he did an excellent job of balancing the right amount of sentimentality and humour. Each year, the graduates select a peer to give the student D’Var Torah. This year, we heard from Itav Estrin, who delivered a beautiful and meaningful D’var Torah.