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Parshat Yitro | Candle Lighting 5:52 pm | Havdalah 6:53 pm

PÂČ Parsha Perspectives

This week, Head of School Rabbi Jordan Silvestri delves into Parshat Yitro, exploring a thought-provoking question—why does Yitro take center stage right before the Ten Commandments?ï»ż


Read Rabbi Silvestri's Parsha Perspectives.

Hakarat HaTov - Recognizing the Good

We are so grateful for all our volunteers this week! A huge shoutout and thank you goes out to:

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Jennifer Barnes, Dafi Setovi, and Rachel Yurowitz

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If you would like to volunteer at RMBA please click here to view our opportunities.

#instaberen 

Consortium of Jewish Day Schools


We are so proud of our Lower School leadership team for their published article in the COJDS journal. The article highlights the importance of strong parent-school partnerships and how shifting from blame to collaboration leads to better student support. By fostering trust, accountability, and open communication, the team has strengthened relationships with families and helped students thrive.


ï»żClick here to read the article.

Navigating Jewish Life in College

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Rabbi Yossi and Manya Lazaroff, Chabad Shlichim (emissaries) at Texas A&M, spoke to our high school students about Jewish life on campus, sharing insights on community, leadership, and staying connected to Judaism in college.

The Legacy of Benjamin Banneker

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During Black History Month, Mr. Simon’s third-grade class studied Benjamin Banneker (1731–1806). A self-taught mathematician, astronomer, and almanac author, Banneker was born into a free Black family in Maryland. He accurately predicted eclipses, assisted in surveying the future Washington, D.C. for George Washington, and advocated for the abolition of slavery through letters to Thomas Jefferson.

The Battle of Quebec


Students in Mr. Cell's 9th-10th on level World History class delved into the Battle of Quebec and its significance within the Seven Years’ War, often referred to as the first global conflict.

Tu B’Shvat, Mitzvot, & Movement


EC3B students in Morah Clara's class had an exciting time learning about Tu BiShvat! They explored how the holiday connects to spring. They talked about how during this time, in Israel, the Shkedia (almond) tree begins to blossom. Students had a blast working on a tree craft and creating a fruit basket to celebrate Tu BiShvat. They learned about various fruits and species from Israel, as well as fruits that are in season during spring. In addition, they observed changes in the weather and discussed how rain helps trees, flowers, and animals grow and thrive. During Parsha learning, they focused on the Aseret HaDibrot (10 commandments) and practiced ways to apply these important mitzvot in their daily lives. They connected their Parsha study to the letter "M" for Mountain (Har Sinai), where Bnei Yisrael received the Luchot, (tablets of law) and used the letter "Samech" to represent purple flowers, symbolizing joy for the holiday. Throughout the week, the children strengthened their fine motor skills through daily projects and a special Tu BiShvat activity pack. They also had fun dancing and moving to the tune of "Tu BiShvat Higiah," which helped develop their gross motor skills.

Discovering the Wonders of Nature


Morah Roza's 2nd grade Hebrew class has been learning about trees, the tree life cycle, the water cycle, and the different parts of a tree in nature. They planted seeds in class, cared for them daily, and were excited to see the first leaves appear. As part of their studies, students researched various types of trees that grow in Eretz Israel and learned about Shivat Haminim, the seven species of Israel. Each student created a book about a tree of their choice and eagerly presented their research to the class, sharing their knowledge with their peers.

Numbers, Nails & More!


Morah Aviva's EC4A students eagerly prepared for the 100th day of school with special counting activities, reinforcing their early math skills. This week also introduced new practical life skills, as students practiced hammering nails and using screwdrivers with a variety of screws, building both confidence and coordination. Meanwhile, the multi-sensory letter and number stations were bustling with engagement. In celebration of Abraham Lincoln, students created portraits using their choice of materials and stencils, then labeled their artwork to develop early writing skills.

Parshat Yitro & Tu Bishvat

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This week, Morah Sandy's EC3A class practiced a number of fun skills while learning Parshat Yitro and about Tu B'Shvat. They did a lot of gluing to create a craft of Har Sinai (Mount Sinai) and the Aseret Hadibros (10 commandments). For Tu B'Shvat, they cut leaves to make fruit trees and practiced counting and number recognition by playing an acorn game.

3D Tree Art for Tu BiShvat


Students in Morah Tsippi's EC2B class created 3D trees in honor of Tu BiShvat, the birthday of the trees! Using dot art, paint, and various decorative items, each child enjoyed designing and personalizing their own unique tree.

ReelAbilities Houston Visit


This week, students had an inspiring day of learning about disabilities, celebrating differences, and discovering the power of perseverance at the ReelAbilities event, hosted by ReelAbilities Houston and Alexander JFS. Through impactful films tailored to each age group, they gained meaningful insights into the experiences of individuals with disabilities. The event featured Adam Berdichevsky, an Israeli mechanical engineer and competitive wheelchair tennis player who represented Israel at the Rio, Tokyo, and Paris Paralympics. He shared his incredible story of resilience and perseverance, including his experiences during the October 7th attacks and his journey to the United States. It was an unforgettable day that challenged perspectives, fostered empathy, and inspired everyone to celebrate the strength found in differences.

PJ Library & RMBA Tu BiShvat Event


Last Sunday, families gathered for a joyful Tu BiShvat celebration! It was wonderful to come together as a community to honor the New Year for Trees through meaningful learning, engaging activities, and shared connections. Children enjoyed nature-themed crafts, a special story time, a tasty snack, and a fun scavenger hunt, all while exploring the beauty of nature. It was a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn, play, and celebrate together.

Book Club Discussion


Mark your calendars! Join Rabbi Jordan Silvestri at The Sweet Spot on Tuesday, March 11, at 7:00 PM for an engaging evening of discussion and connection. Explore the challenges of parenting in the modern age through thought-provoking conversations, with a special focus on building resilience and community.


The first 15 people to sign up will receive a complimentary copy of The Anxious Generation (pick-up at RMBA)!


Click here to register.

 

Save the Date

 

High School Boys Basketball

Bi-District Playoff Game


Thursday, February 13, 2025

7:30 PM

RMBA Gym


RMBA Stars vs. Lifestyle Christian


 Admission for the game is $5 for Adults

$3 for kids/students

RMBA, UOS, and Bnei Akiva Present the 8th annual

Rabbi Joseph Radinsky z"l

Yom Chesed


Sunday, February 23, 2025

8:00 am- 12:00 pm


This specical day of community service offers meaningful volunteer opportunities such as a blood drive, baking for first responders, a bone marrow swab, animal adoption, and more. RMBA parents who volunteer will earn double hitnadvut (volunteer) points!


Click here to register.


See flyer for additional details.

Yearbook Ads


The RMBA yearbook is now open for student and business recognition ads! This is a great opportunity to celebrate your child’s achievements, commemorate special moments, or promote your business while supporting our school.


Ad Pricing:

1/8 page – $75

1/4 page – $150

1/2 page – $200

Full page – $350


Designing your ad is quick and easy! Simply visit Jostens’ Custom Yearbook to craft your personalized message.


Don’t miss this chance to be part of RMBA’s yearbook—reserve your ad today!


MD Anderson Blood Drive

(part of Yom Chesed)


Sunday, February 23, 2025

9:00 am- 1:00 pm


Appreciation t-shirt, snacks &

refreshments provided to all donors. ID required to donate.


Click here to register.


See flyer for additional details


 Hebrew Fair

RMBA Ulam


We are thrilled to invite you to 

Bishvili Nivrah HaOlam The World Was Created For Me

a special Hebrew Fair presented by our 4th and 5th-grade students.


Tuesday, February 25, 2025

4:15 PM to 5:15 PM


For security and logistical purposes, we kindly ask that you RSVP by February 21.



High School Play

Playbill Ads


We are so excited for our upcoming High School Play

Beauty and the Beast

Bed & Breakfast

taking place on

March 16 and 17

at the ERJCC


Ticket sales info coming soon! If you would like to place a playbiill ad congratulating the cast and crew or promoting your business you can do so using the link below:


Playbill Ad Sponsorships

Athletic Update

Please see the Beren Academy Calendar as your most up to date source for information. The Week at a Glance is a snapshot, but does not reflect any changes made after that date. 


High School Boys Basketball

The HS Boys Basketball team will play in the first round of the TAPPS playoffs on February 13th. The boys will host Lifestyle Christian at 7:30. Admission for the game will be $5 for Adults and $3 for kids/students. 

Community Events & Flyers

Plant Trees in Israel

Bnei Akiva Houston


January 23- February 13


Celebrate Tu BiShvat by planting trees in Israel with Bnei Akiva Houston and Zu Artzenu! Honor Israel’s heroes, restore the land, and support Bnei Akiva’s activities. Donate and receive a certificate.


Click here to donate!


See flyer for additional details

Dealing With Anxiety

Catapult Learning


Parents are welcome to join Catapult for a Zoom Workshop.


Thursday, February 13, 2025

6:00 PM-6:30 PM


ï»żFor Zoom link, click here.

Yom Limmud

Congregation Beth Yeshuren


Yom Limmud has brought together students, parents, and teachers to explore a wide range of topics, and this year’s theme, “Am Yisrael Chai,” highlights Jewish resilience in the wake of October 7. The event will feature classes on Jewish text, arts, health, Israel, antisemitism, and more, with a keynote address by Dr. Mijal Bitton, a spiritual leader and sociologist.


Sunday, February 16, 2025

8:30 AM-3:30 PM


ï»żï»żClick here to register.


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Bat Mitzvah Program

Bnei Akiva Houston


Program Begins Monday, March 3, 2025

5:30 PM-7:30 PM


Join us for a meaningful Bat Mitzvah program for 5th and 6th grade where we will explore the spiritual significance of this age, connect to the mitzvot, and learn from inspiring women in the Tanach whose values continue to guide us today.


Price: $80 for 6 sessions.


Registration Deadline: February 24, 2025



Click here to register and learn more!

Purim Baskets Fundraiser Bnei Akiva Houston


Order your Mishloach Manot today! All funds go towards educational programming and scholarships for teens.


ï»żOrder Deadline:

Sunday, February 23, 2025 (Late fee after Feb 23, no orders after March 2).


Price: $8 for the first 5 names, $5 for each additional name.

Optional: $720 “send to all” option, $50 for reciprocation.


Baskets delivered on Purim, March 14, 2025, or available for pickup.


Click here to order.(Password: Texas) to pay via credit card or check.

Resilience & Hope

The Way Forward in the aftermath of October 7

American's for Ben Gurion University


Thursday, February 27, 2025

6 PM to 9 PM 


Secure your spot.

See flyer for more information.


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Robert M. Beren Academy | www.berenacademy.org
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