Parshat Terumah | Candle Lighting 6:02 pm | Havdalah 7:03 pm | |
This week, Lower School Judaic Studies Teacher Morah Esther Saghian highlights the power of giving, showing how contributions can be elevated to holiness. True spiritual growth comes from both avoiding negativity and doing good with intention.
Read Morah Esther Saghian's Parsha Perspectives.
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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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Reut Mizrahi, Shelly Riklin, Sara Rosenblum, Regina Shamooelian, and Ariel Wadler
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If you would like to volunteer at RMBA please click here to view our opportunities.
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Mazal Tov to parents David ('11) and Hava Singer on the birth of their daughter Avigail Peninah Singer.
Mazal Tov to brother Yehuda Singer.
Mazel tov Ruthie and Andre Vysotskiy on the birth of their son Ari Daniel Vysotskiy.
Mazal Tov to sibling Riley Vysotskiy.
Mazel tov to parents Batel Vaknin and Hanan Tuchshnaider on the birth of their daughter.
Mazel tov to siblings Eliya Rahamin (6th Grade) and Oriya Rahamin.
Mazal Tov to the family of Eli and Avi Gross on the occasion of their Bar Mitzvah.
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Yom Chesed 2025 The Power of Giving
Kol Hakavod to the 300+ volunteers who came together this past Sunday to perform acts of chessed in memory of Rabbi Joseph Radinsky ztāl. Organized by RMBA, UOS, and Bnei Akiva, the day was filled with meaningful service, including a charity basketball tournament and a blood drive. Volunteers dedicated their time to baking cookies for firefighters, assembling care packages for the sick to be distributed by Alexander JFS to hospital patients, preparing 150 sandwiches for the homeless, reciting Tehillim for soldiers and the safe return of hostages, creating activity boxes for Friendship Circle, painting planters with residents at The Medallion, collecting 40 bags of trash at the Willow Waterhole with the PTO, writing cards and crafting bracelets for the IDF, and assisting with various improvement projects around the school. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible shlichim, Odeya and Harel Maman, and Bnot Sherut, Yael Kalef and Adi Radziner, for their dedication in making this day a success.
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RMBA Delegates Shine at
ļ»æYUNMUN XXXV
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This week, six RMBA high school students had the incredible opportunity to participate in Yeshiva Universityās National Model United Nations (YUNMUN), where they represented the United States on the international stage. The conference brought together students from 48 schools representing 58 countries, providing a dynamic and immersive experience in global diplomacy. Throughout the event, our delegates engaged in rigorous committee meetings, debated pressing international issues, and responded to real-time developments that impacted their positions. Their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate complex negotiations was truly impressive. We are so proud of our students for their hard work and dedication. Their experience at YUNMUN helped them develop essential skills in research, public speaking, and global awarenessāan invaluable opportunity as they continue to grow as leaders. ļ»æ
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Voices of History: Learning from Holocaust Survivors
High School students had a profound and meaningful experience this week as they interviewed Holocaust survivors for the Names, Names, Not NumbersĀ® project. Through these powerful conversations, they gained firsthand insights into history, resilience, and the importance of remembrance. These interviews not only preserve survivors' stories but also ensure that future generations never forget.
The Names, Not NumbersĀ® program is generously supported by a prominent national foundation and made possible with Assistance from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany Supported by the German Federal Ministry of Finance and the Foundation Remembrance, Responsibility and Future.
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Bishvili Nivrah HaOlam - The World Was Created For Me Hebrew Fairļ»æ
This past Tuesday, our 4th and 5th-grade students wowed us with their creativity, knowledge, and passion at the Hebrew Fair: Bishvili Nivrah HaOlam ā The World Was Created for Me. The Big Ulam was transformed into a vibrant "living museum," where students proudly presented their projects, research, and personal reflections on this meaningful theme. From interactive exhibits to engaging storytelling, each student brought their learning to life, making the event a true nachat (joy) moment for all who attended. Their dedication and enthusiasm were evident in every project, and we couldnāt be prouder of their hard work! A heartfelt thank you to our incredible students, teachers, and families for making this event such a memorable success. We look forward to seeing the continued growth of our young scholars!
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The Founding of St. Petersburg
This week Mr. Cell's 9th-10th grade on-level World History class examined the role of the founding of St. Petersburg in Peter the Great's orientation toward Europe and the Enlightenment.
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Nature & Knowledge
With the chilly weather Houston has had over the past couple of weeks, Rabbi Ouzzanās Middle School Gemara class seized the opportunity to study outside, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.
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Bringing Books to Life
Students in Ms. Ruben's Middle School English Language Arts classes are participating in graded discussions about the recently completed unit novels this week. They are discussing not only content, but also author's craft, and the novels' connections with their own lives. Speaking and listening are two important aspects of language arts which help improve communication and critical thinking.
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Exploring Habitats
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This week, first-grade students in Ms. Schneider's class engaged in an exploration of habitats. Working collaboratively with a partner, they created large, detailed posters depicting their chosen habitat. Before beginning their projects, they carefully planned their designs to ensure a thoughtful and organized presentation. Additionally, each student contributed by writing key facts they learned about their habitat, demonstrating their understanding of the topic.
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Marathon Update
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The Lower School RMBA Marathon is going strong! Despite having to pause due to the cold weather, the students have returned with enthusiasm this week. They have reached an impressive 13-mile milestoneāmeaning they are officially halfway there! Keep up the great work!
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All About Fractions
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Ms. Morrisonās 4th graders have been exploring equivalent fractions and how to simplify them. They were excited to use new fraction strips to visualize the fractions in a hands-on way. By physically manipulating the strips, they could clearly see how fractions can be equivalent and how to simplify them. This concrete understanding made it easier for them to move on to more abstract methods, such as multiplying and dividing fractions.
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Legislative Learning
This week, Mr. Simonās third-grade class continues studying the legislative branch of the federal government. They learned how a bill becomes a law, a process that can be quite time-consuming. The students were amazed by how long this process can take and what it requires. They also learned about the presidential veto and how Congress can override it, demonstrating the balance of power. Additionally, the class explored the Senate and the House of Representatives, discovering that Texas has 38 representatives and two senators. The students researched various representatives and shared their findings.
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Weight & Capacity
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The 2nd grade students in Ms. Morrisonās class has been learning about weight and capacity. They had a great time using scales to measure the mass of different objects. They discovered that their water bottles weighed about 250 grams, a jar of extra marbles weighed 700 grams, and a pencil weighed only 5 grams. After measuring, they even added up the weights to find the total mass of each object. For a fun activity at home, students can try weighing different items around the house to see what they find. If they have a scale or any other tools for measuring weight or capacity that they would like to share with the class, they are encouraged to bring them in for show and tell!
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Creative Caterpillars
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Kindergarten students in Morah Tzippe's Judaic Studies class completed their Brachot (blessings) unit, and their collaborative book is now ready! They created The Very Hungry Kindergarten Caterpillar, a spin-off of Eric Carleās classic The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The children designed their illustrations in the same style as Eric Carle, using textured and patterned paper to create the foods the caterpillar ate. Each student received a copy of the book as a special keepsake.
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Getting Ready for Go Texan Day
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Morah Colleen's EC4B class is eagerly preparing for Go Texan Day by learning all about the Lone Star State. The students have explored how cowboys and cowgirls dress and discovered important symbols of Texas. As part of the festivities, they created a special Texas ranch-themed sensory bin, where they can drive a truck and horse trailer through beans to collect and count farm animals. Excitement is building as they look forward to celebrating Go Texan Day on Friday!
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Building the Mishkan
This week in Morah Sandy's EC3A class, students learned in Parshat Terumah that Bnei Yisrael gave donations of gold, silver, and oil to build the Mishkan (portable sanctuary). When asked what they would donate to help build the Mishkan, the childrenās answers included āmy teddy bear, my bracelet, my candy, and a unicorn.ā They made replicas of the seven-branch menorah of the Mishkan, practiced counting to seven, and cut gold tape themselves to complete their projects.
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From Rodeos to Listening Boxes
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Learning through play kept Morah Aviva's EC4A class on their toes all week! From engaging in hands-on sensory and tactile letter āSsā stations to problem-solving and creative thinking in the Blocks Centerāwhere classmates built bridges for their vehicles using plastic cups and colored jumbo popsicle sticksāthe classroom was filled with enthusiasm for learning.
Additionally, students began preparing for Go Texan Day as Morah Aviva introduced the concept of the rodeo and the special symbols of Texas. They enhanced their fine motor skills by creating torn-paper Texas flag collages and then started individual books featuring the Texas symbols they learned in class. Each page provided opportunities for skill development using a variety of materials and tools, such as painting with tweezers and pom-poms, drop painting with pipettes, and writing simple vocabulary. Students also practiced important life skills in the Science Center, where they engaged in activities like brushing teeth and using listening boxes. The listening boxes encouraged careful attention as children matched the sounds in one set of cylinders to the corresponding sounds in another, reinforcing their auditory discrimination skills.
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Join RMBA at the Houston Kosher Chili Cook-off
Congregation Beth Yeshurun
4525 Beechnut
Houston, TX 77096
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Volunteer:
7 AM - 12PM
12 PM - 4PM
Attend: 12 PM-4 PM
Join us at the Houston Kosher Chili Cookoff on for a day filled with delicious chili, great company, and a little friendly competition! RMBA will have its very own table! Support us by:
Volunteering
Purchasing Tickets
Make sure to put the word beren in the coupon code. This allows RMBA to receive $2 for every referred ticket.
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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
Tickets go on sale on Monday!
ļ»æ If you would like to place a playbill ad congratulating the cast and crew or promoting your business you can do so using the link below:
Playbill Ad Sponsorships
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Book Club Discussion
Mark your calendars! Join Rabbi Jordan Silvestri 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.
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
7:00 PM
The Sweet Spot
5263 Beechnut St.
Houston, TX 77096
The first 15 people to sign up will receive a complimentary copy of The Anxious Generation (pick-up at RMBA)!
RSVP Link
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RMBA invites you to the
56th Anniversary Scholarship Gala
Sunday, March 30, 2025
United Orthodox Synagogues
9001 Greenwillow Street
Houston, Texas 77096
Reception at 5:00 p.m.
Program at 6:00 p.m.
Followed by Dinner
Honoring
Bonnie Blumberg
Dena and Baruch Brody Award for Dedicated Service
Special Tribute to the
Houston Police Department
Featuring
American-Israeli Comedian Joel Chasnoff
National Jewish Book Award Winner and Author of Israel 201
RSVP by Friday, March 14, 2025
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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.
All Basketball Teams
Team photos will and uniform turn in will happen next week. The schedule is below:
Tuesday, March 4th - MS Boys - 11:50 (MS Varsity and MS JV)
Tuesday, March 4th - HS Boys - 1:00
Wednesday, March 5th - MS Girls 11:50
Middle School and High School Track
Information for Track opportunities will be sent out by next Monday.
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Community Events & Flyers | |
Purim Baskets Fundraiser
Bnei Akiva Houston
Order your Mishloach Manot today! All funds go towards educational programming and scholarships for teens.
ļ»æLate Order Deadline:
Sunday, March 2, 2025
(Late fee after Feb 23)
Price: $8 for the first 5 names, $5 for each additional name.
Optional: $720 āsend to allā option, $50 for reciprocation.
Baskets delivered on Purim, March 14, 2025, or available for pickup.
Place Your Order
ļ»æ(Password: Texas) to pay via credit card or check.
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UOS Invites you to a
Purim Seudah and Shabbat dinner
Friday, March 14th, 2025
Celebrate Purim with UOS and enjoy delicious Persian food.
Consistent with minhagim (traditions) about celebrating Purim on Friday, the meal will begin at 6pm with meat appetizers to fulfill the Seudat Mitzvah (celebratory meal) of the day, break for Kabbalat Shabbat and Maariv at 6:30pm, and finally transition to Shabbat dinner and the main course at 7pm.
Early Bird Prices:
Adult Member: $36
Child Member: $18
Adult Non-Member: $45
Child Non-Member: $22.5
Please register by Wednesday, March 5th.
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Bat Mitzvah Program
Bnei Akiva Houston
Program Begins
ļ»æMonday, 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
Registration and Info Link
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Moshava Wild Rose
Meyuchad Program
Located in northern Wisconsin, Camp Moshava Wild Rose is the only Jewish Modern Orthodox overnight camp in the Midwest, set on 242 beautiful acres with private lakes.From sports and outdoor adventures to arts and Jewish educational programming. Campers experience a spirited summer filled with learning, Shabbat celebrations, and a strong sense of community
To learn more, visit the camp's website.
See flyer for additional details.
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We Rise Again
United Orthodox Synagogue
Join us for We Rise Againāan evening of resilience, hope, and rebuilding featuring Mendel Vile, Bazy Rubin, and Nerya Meir. Their story is our story.
Tuesday, March 20, 2025
7:00 PM
ļ»æTo RSVP, click here.
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