B'nai Shalom Day School: A Mishpacha of Gratitude and Impact

At this year’s Sneaker Soiree, alumnus, Aaron Strasser, received the Inaugural B’nai Shalom Day School Community Impact Award. Aaron spoke of the profound impact of B’nai Shalom and how it became a habitat of growth for him over the years. Read below to hear more about Aaron’s experience and the lasting impact B’nai Shalom has had on him and his family.

A Journey Through Time

Picture this: over 5 decades of memories, laughter, and learning woven into the fabric of B'nai Shalom's history. Aaron Strasser’s connection spans several of these generations, showcasing the enduring spirit of L'dor Vador – meaning “Generation to Generation.” While delivering remarks at Sneaker Soiree, Aaron proudly declared himself a B'nai Shalom alumnus, a parent since 2007, and disbelief that his youngest will soon graduate from the 8th grade. 

Mishpacha - A Five-Letter Bond: 

Aaron shared that, to him, the essence of B'nai Shalom is that it is “more than just an educational institution, it's a family.” The Hebrew word for family is Mishpacha, a 5-letter word- Mem, Shin, Pey, Chet, and Hey. “To my thinking, each of those letters represents one of the foundational components of B’nai Shalom.”

Mem - Mitzvah:

“Mem is the first letter of the word Mitzvah- literally translated as a commandment from G-d”, though most of us think of it as a good deed. “Doing mitzvot is at the core of what is taught at B’nai Shalom,” Aaron says. Aaron emphasized that B’nai Shalom students are constantly encouraged to be active and progressive members of the B'nai Shalom family and beyond. “B’nai Shalom instills in our children the foundations of helping others, caring for others and showing empathy for others.”

Shin - Shalom:

“Shin is the first letter of the most widely known Hebrew word- Shalom or peace,” says Aaron. “For our kids, peace is ingrained at a young age…” he reflects. Students as young as 2 years old are inspired and encouraged to work with their fellow classmates, whether it be to learn a new song, collaborate on art projects, or help overcome academic or personal obstacles. “In the classroom or on the playground, our kids are taught that we must respect each other and work with each other to create a school and family that are safe and supportive.” 

Pey - Peh (Mouth):

“Pey is the first letter of the Hebrew word for mouth- peh.” Aaron reflects that “B’nai Shalom allows our children to find their voice…our kids find their voices as Jewish children, as Jewish leaders, as lovers of Israel, and as members of the larger Jewish world. Our kids leave this school proud to be Jewish and with the self-confidence to succeed wherever their paths lead.”

Chet - Chai (Life):

“Chet is the first letter of the second most well known Hebrew word- Chai.” The word Chai symbolizes life and vitality, “a reminder that our beloved school is alive every day with the voices and spirit of our children,” says Aaron. “It is alive because a small group of women willed it to happen over 50 years ago. It is alive because generation after generation of leaders have emerged to carry the flame to ensure its viability. It is alive because we live in a Jewish community that has made a commitment to the importance of Day School education.” 

Hey - Hineni (I am here):

“Hey- the first letter of the Hebrew word Hineni- I am here.” B'nai Shalom thrives because of the collective commitment of parents, supporters, and volunteers who declare, "Hineni, I am here." 

Gratitude and Thanksgiving: 

“I have chosen to be a leader at this school because I believe these principles are essential to the development of the next generation of Jewish leaders that will begin their journey, like I did, in the halls of B’nai Shalom Day School,” Aaron reflects. Drawing a connection between the word "Jew" and the tribe of Judah, which is derived from the word "thanksgiving," Aaron emphasized that “to be Jewish is to be thankful.” “Tonight I am incredibly thankful for this school, for this community and for this family.”

 B'nai Shalom Day School isn't just an educational institution; it's a Mishpacha that weaves together generations, instills values, and fosters a sense of community. Aaron’s words beautifully capture the essence of B'nai Shalom, a place that continues to impact lives and cultivate leaders with a strong sense of identity and gratitude.

Aaron Strasser and his family after receiving the B’nai Shalom Day School Community Impact Award

Aaron Strasser delivered remarks about the lasting impact that B’nai Shalom has had on him and his family.