Our second annual Shavuot Learnathon was held on May 14. Grade 4 students presented their projects on the Ten Commandments as our six graders participated in the Torah Fair. Other classes studied relevant Judaic material with parents, board members, community Rabbis and friends' active involvement.

On Wednesday, May 8, Grade 6 students and teachers took a day trip to Chicago. They visited the Illinois Holocaust Museum, Museum of Broadcast Communication, and Navy Pier.
In the picture, students are enoing their time at the Navy Pier in the Lake Michigan waterfront.
Please check more pictures on our Facebook page or click here for the slideshow.

Grade Eight's journey to Israel has come to a close. Our students and teachers spent two exciting weeks there, exploring the country and learning about Israeli culture and history.
Visit our Events page or HHAI Facebook page to see numerous pictures taken during the trip!

HHAI students and staff participated in Yom HaZikaron (Israel Memorial Day) ceremony and celebrated Yom HaAtzmaut (Israel Independence Day) on Monday, April 15. Students learned about important events in the history of Israel and performed on the stage with several Israeli songs.
Click here for more videos!

On Wednesday, April 10, seven HHAI students participated at the Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony held in Indiana State House. They shared their ancestor's survival stories with the large audience gathered in the State House Rotunda.

Click here for more pictures and a video of the students' speeches!

The "Academy Awards" were held on March 21st complete with golden Oscars for the winning contestants in a Biblical fashion show held on the red carpet of the CAC entitled "Role Models" . Staff and students selected best "picture", actor/actress and costume awards from infomercials depicting sibling rivalry in the book of Bereshit. 

Click here to watch students' video presentations!

On Friday, February 22, HHAI students, teachers, and parents enjoyed our traditional Purim activities.

Click here to see more pictures of Purim celebration!

On Wednesday HHAI students and teachers participated in the National  Digital Learning Day.  They learned about the evolution of technology and about different uses for technology.  Among many exciting activities there was relay race where students had to write their names on iPads or cell phones, video creation with iPads, and Family Tree project presentation.                                 The "Breaking News" announcement was made to the students about the 1:1 iPad initiative that will take place next year where each student in grades 5-8 will be receiving his/her own iPad.  Students will own the iPad when they graduate from eighth grade!

Click here to see more pictures of the Digital Learning Day!

The Siddur party took place on Sunday, February 3. This event is the highlight in First grade Judaic Studies. It's a very special moment when the students receive their first real Siddur. Our Siddur party was a huge success. The children looked so nice and festive! They are very excited to use their Siddurim each morning. Thank you HHAI family for coming and sharing our "Simcha" with us!

Click here to see more pictures!

Joani Rothenberg, Hasten Hebrew Academy Artist in Residence (and mother of 8th grader Tal), talks to the crowd who gathered for the unveiling of the  Tree of Life mosaic.  The beautiful  piece of artwork was a collaborative effort by Joani, MaryEllen Fellegy and many students, parents, alumni and volunteers, 

Leaves and pomegranates may be purchased and dedicated  to friends or loved ones by using the order form connected to this link.

On Tuesday, December 18, the 5/6 team won 27 - 22, and 7/8 team came from behind to defeat Orchard 40 - 38, with Arik Tieke scoring game-high 16 point.  The 7/8 team is 9 - 0 on the season.  Congratulations to both teams and coach Coleman!

Click here to see more pictures!

Hasten Hebrew Academy students participated in a variety of activities during Chanukah. The Middle School enjoyed Chanukah themed games and "It's all Greek to Me" integration day, while Early Childhood made dreidels and a recycled Chanukia. All elementary school students had the opportunity to make creative Chanukiot and perform at the Chanukah Songfest.  In the picture, Grades 3,4 and 5 are making Sufganiyot (donuts) with Mrs. Dina Cohen. 

Grandparents, Family and Friends Day was a huge success! Over 200 people attended the beautiful breakfast and program held on Wednesday, November 21. Barbara Wesselman and Julie Sondhelm, event co-chairs, and their volunteers did a wonderful job preparing the breakfast and decorating the lobby of the Cultural Arts Center. Mrs. Ann Sloan produced a great musical program featuring students ages 3 through 8th grade. All classrooms were open for visitation. It was wonderful to see so many family and friends touring our school.

Click here to see more pictures!

The whole school is excited about our upcoming Book Fair. An amazing selection of books is headed our way! 
At the Book Fair you will find the latest and finest titles for kids, as well as books of interest to parents. 
Mark your calendar for our Friends and Family Day, November 21st. The Bookfair will be open after the Program. The BookFair will also be open during Parent-Teacher Conferences on Tuesday, December 4.
The Book Fair is a great way to get everyone excited about reading. And, you can contribute books to your child's classroom library. 
Here's a brief video that highlights the big dreams that can be realized through family reading: 
http://www.scholastic.com/bookfairs/family  
See you at the Book Fair! 

The traditional second grade Chumash party took place on Sunday, November 4. After a creative play about the importance of the Torah, staged by the second graders, each student received their very first Chumash, which contains the book of Beraishit (Genesis).  Go to Events
to see more pictures!

The third grade class was happy to welcome Mr. Mark Hasten to their classroom last week. He spoke to the students about his experiences as an inventor. Mr. Hasten has had his hand in many inventions that we use readily such as the bending straw, Bugels snack food, Cheerios cereal, and the unique mezuzot design that we use at HHAI. His presentation was a great addition to the the students' knowledge of the invention process as they embark upon their "Invention Convention" projects.

Middle School students celebrated country of Taiwan with lunch and a presentation of the Jewish community there.

Fifth grade parents enjoyed seeing the phases of the moon through a zoetrope made in Art class. The project was a joint venture between Science, Art and Hebrew.

Last week, HHAI middle school students showcased their technology achievements at the Indiana Computer Educators (ICE) conference. They presented their websites, Flash animations and projects in Microworlds (Early Programming) and Google Forms.

Click here for more pictures!

HHAI 5/6 Volleyball team defeated Park Tudor in two sets on Thursday and advanced to semi-finals of the IISL (Indianapolis Independent School League) tournament. The team will travel to Brownsburg, IN on Monday to face second-seeded Bethesda Christian. Good luck HHAI Stars!!!

Hooverwood, the Jewish nursing home, held an Alzheimer's Memory Walk in memory of their residents who had died from Alzheimers and in support of those who are currently living with the disease. Students and staff from the Hasten Hebrew Academy Middle School helped by escorting Hooverwood residents along the route of the "walk." At the end of the "walk," the students sang Jewish songs for the residents.

Our Middle School students enjoyed their two days away from school, filled with outdoor team building activities at the Flat Rock Camp. In the picture, one of the student advisories is performing their camp song on the stage

Click here for more photos!

On Monday, August 20, our Early Childhood students came to HHAI for the first time this school year.

In the picture, our youngest students are enjoying their first minutes in the classroom.

On Thursday, May 10, HHAI Students and Teachers participated in the "Color Wars" - special activities dedicated to Jewish holiday Lag B'Omer.

Please go to the Events section to see more pictures!

HHAI 7 Graders visited Washington DC.

In the picture, students happy to strike a pose in front of the White House.

Other highlights from the trip include a visit to the Smithsonian, a driving tour of Embassy Row, a production of 1776 at the infamous Ford's Theater, Arlington Cemetery, Spy Museum and Linkoln Memorial.

Go to Events to see more pictures!

Grade 8 students and teachers have concluded their trip to Israel. They enjoyed sights and sounds of Israel and participated in many exciting activities!

Go to the Events section to see more photos of the trip!

On Friday, April 20, Mr. Hart Hasten, one of the founders of the Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis, visited our school and shared his experience during the Holocaust years with seventh graders, who are currently working on their Holocaust project. Mr. Hasten's stories about his escape from the Nazis, struggles in Kazakhstan and return to his homeland were very powerful and inspirational.

Click here to watch the video of Mr. Hasten's presentaion.

HHAI students participated in various Passover activities, such as Model Seder in classrooms and at Hooverwood. They also had the opportunity to  learn how to make matza.  Our older students made a trip to the Arthur M. Glick JCC for the Matza Factory while our youngest  pre-school students learned this important skill right here at school when the Matzah Factory came to them.

Go to Events to see more pictures!

Click here to access the 2012-2013 HHAI Calendar

Cy Orentlicher (grade 5) has won second place in the Indianapolis regional Spelling Bee competition, which took place on March 20 at IUPUI.
In the picture, Cy holding his Runner-Up trophey. His teacher and Spelling Bee coach Mrs. Sandi Stanfield and HHAI Assistant Principal Mrs. Sherry Hamstra are pictured as well.
Congratulations, Cy, on your great success and good luck next year!

On Thursday, March 22, five middle school students went to Purdue University to participate in the Engineering Expo. The students that went from HHAI were Arike Tieke, Aviv Linkon, Maya Harris, Rebecca Bruns, and Rebecca Fogel. Upon arrival we gathered with almost four hundred students from all around Indiana to to explore the world engineering. The day began with a design challenge. Teams of students were given materials to build a structure that was light, tall, held weight, and withstood earthquake conditions. The HHAI teams tower weighed .66 pounds, was 12 inches high, held up 2.72 pounds, and withstood the simulated earth quake. The team then took part in a "Quizbowl" that had topics about structural engineering, the history of towers and skyscrapers, and the history of Purdue. The afternoon activities included an engineering fair where students could get information about many of the thirteen different departments of engineering offered at Purdue.

By Mr. Matt Tucker, HHAI Math Teacher

On Tuesday, February 21, grade 3 - 8 students participated in a new event at HHAI - the Science Olympiad. Two divisions - elementary and middle school comprised of multigrade teams competed in a separate timed challenge. In addition to the hands-on creative component, teams also explained their thought process in a shared Google Docs format presented to the audience.

Go to Events to see more photos!

The Siddur party took place on Sunday, February 12. This event is the highlight in First grade Judaic Studies. It's a very special moment when the students receive their first real Siddur. Our Siddur party was a huge success. The children looked so nice and festive! They are very excited to use their Siddurim each morning. Thank you HHAI family for coming and sharing our "Simcha" with us!

Click here to watch videorecording of the Siddur Party!

Fifth grader Cy Orentlicher (center), HHAI Spelling Bee grand champion, successfully competed in the second round at Orchard school yesterday. He finished third out of many participants, and now Cy advances to the regional round, which will take place on March 20, at IUPUI.

Congratulations, Cy! We are very proud of you!

Last week, HHAI students and teachers participated in the Digital Learning Day . They were learning about the History of Technology, creating exciting projects, and imagining about Technology of the Future.

Go to Events to see the full-size slide show!

On Tuesday, January 24, Mrs. Vivian Aronson, grandmother of three HHAI students and daughter of Holocaust survivors met with Middle School students and shared her amazing, inspirational story about her parents' experience during the Holocaust.

You can view the video recording of Mrs. Aronson's speech by following this link.

Last week, the Middle School students were surprised to be transported back in time to the 1950's as part of the Middle School annual integration day. After the engaging opening activity, students rotated through Math/Science, Humanities, Arts, and Judaic stations, which included a collaborative art project, the magnificent experience of the Moroccan room, informative science and statistics of race, the simulation of a 1950's classroom, a digital scavenger hunt and exciting gym activities.

Go to Events to see more photos!

The last day of school before Winter Break was filled with exciting Chanukah events. In this picture, Early Childhood students are performing a Chanukah program for their parents and guests.  

Click here to see the video of this performance!

Click on Events to see more photos and videos!

On Wednesday, December 14, Mr. Sam Glazier, the World War II veteran spoke to our Middle School students and teachers about his experience during the war. He also talked about life in Indianapolis during the 1930's and answered students' questions.
Click here to watch the video of Mr. Glazier's visit!

The HHAI Book Fair was a great success! Students, parents, and teachers were able to find the latest and finest titles for kids and adults. The Book Fair was a great way to get everyone excited about reading. 

Grandparents, Family and Friends Day was a huge success! Over 200 people attended the beautiful breakfast and program held on Wednesday, November 23.  Barbara Wesselman and Julie Sondhelm, event co-chairs, and their volunteers did a wonderful job preparing the breakfast and decorating the lobby of the Cultural Arts Center. Mrs. Ann Sloan produced a great musical program featuring students ages 3 through 8th grade. All classrooms were open for visitation. It was wonderful to see so many family and friends touring our school.

Click on Events to see more pictures and videos!

The traditional second grade Chumash party took place on Sunday, November 13. After a creative play about the importance of the Torah, staged by the second graders, each student received their very first Chumash, which contains the book of Beraishit (Genesis).

Go to Events to see more pictures or to the
HHAI YouTube Channel
to watch the videos!

Opening our Rosh Chodesh programming for the new Jewish year 5772, the fifth grade presented an integrated lesson on the astronomy of the phases of the moon along with an Hebrew language song on the theme of the hidden moon and the renewal motif connected with the Jewish calendar's lunar cycle.Following the presentation, parents visited their Social Studies class to preview paired powerpoint presentations on Native American tribes before enjoying lunch their children/ grandchildren.Each month we highlight a different grade and provide an opportunity for families to share some time with their children within the context of the school day.

Go to Events to see more pictures!

On Tuesday, October 18, grade 5, 7 and 8 students and teachers met with Israeli citizen Yosef Kalmanovich, a Holocaust survivor. Mr. Kalmanovich was 18 years old when he escaped from the Vilna ghetto and joined the partisans to fight the Nazis. Our guest shared his experiences from the war and answered questions from the audience.

The video of the event is available here: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

On Wednesday, September 28, HHAI students and teachers held their classroom Rosh Hashanah celebrations. In the picture, second-graders are listening to their teacher Rabbi Gluck's explanation of the holiday rituals.

Glick on the Events to see more pictures of the Rosh Hashanah celebration at HHAI!

Hooverwood, the Jewish nursing home, held an Alzheimer's Memory Walk in memory of their residents who had died from Alzheimers and in support of those who are currently living with the disease. Students and staff from the Hasten Hebrew Academy Middle School helped by escorting Hooverwood residents along the route of the "walk."

Click on Events to see more pictures!

Our Middle School students enjoyed their two days away from school, filled with exciting outdoor team building activities at the Flat Rock camp.

In the picture, the students are helping each other to get through the challenge course. Co to Events to see more pictures!

The Department of Education for the State of Indiana has released its Annual Yearly Progress ratings and Public Law 221 results. In essence, they have graded Indiana schools (based on ISTEP scores and improvement from previous years) and the Hasten Hebrew Academy received an "A," the highest grade possible. We achieved 9 out of 9criteria in the Annual Yearly Progress measurement. We are an "Exemplary Progress" school. We achieved this rating because we had a 97.3 passing rate on the ISTEPS and we met the improvement standards required. Not included in this figure, but outstanding, nonetheless, was our score on the Science portion of the ISTEP. 78% of the students who took the science exam at our school received a PASS PLUS(over 95%)!! Only 3 schools in the entire state scored that high. We can be so proud of our wonderful students and outstanding staff

On Monday, May 23, our school first principal Cantor Edwin Epstein (1971 - 1979) met with HHAI students and talked about the very first years of our school and his experiences working at various Jewish schools worldwide.

Mazel tov to our HAI-Life Award Honorees, Mark and Anna Ruth Hasten and Hart and Simona Hasten. Thank you for your more than 40 years of dedication to our school!  
Congratulations to our Distinguished teacher award recipient, Sherry Hamstra!

On Friday, May 20, HHAI students, parents and guests participated in the opening of the Hasten Hebrew Academy Youth Holocaust Museum. The Museum was dedicated in Memory of the Blobstein family who perished in the Holocaust.
In the picture, Mike Blain (Blobstein) and his wife Sylvia, long-time supporters of the school, lit the Memory candle after unveiling the Dedication plaque.

Our Grade 8 students have returned from their very successful trip to Israel.

Go to Events to see more pictures of the Grade 8 Israel Trip!

On May 9, HHAI students and teachers celebrated Yom Ha'atzmaut. Students "traveled" to many places in Israel and learned in depth the meaning of Hatikvah.
Click on Events to see more pictures!

On President's Day, our second grade students sent a letter to the US President Barack Obama "If I Were the President". The letter included some important suggestions to our president.  Recently, the students have received a reply from the President. Click here to watch the video!

During the week before Passover, all students participated in Model Seders. In the picture, our second grade students are performing their Passover play.

Click on Events to see more pictures and videos!

Please click here to access the 2011-2012 HHAI Calendar.

Naomi Farahan and Stav Linkon won third place in the regional Science Fair competition for their project, Name Brand vs. Generic. They also won an award for Oral Skills/Presentation. The project, which was the only winner in the Behavioral Sciences category, looked at the influence packaging has on the different genders' perception of how food looks, tastes and smells. They determined that overall women are influenced more by the packaging. Congratulations, Naomi and Stav!

HHAI students, teachers, and parents enjoyed traditional Purim celebration held on Friday, March 18.
Click on Events to see more pictures of Purim celebration!

The traditional Woman of Valor Program took place on Wednesday, February 23. Middle School girls put together a wonderful production directed by Mrs. Ethel Bartky. Please read this Shabbat Shalom issue to find more information on the Woman of Valor event.

Symphony in Color is a statewide art contest that encourages children to interpret music through the visual arts. HHAI student finalists were: Gabriel Benabou - Second grade, Emily Fridman - Third grade, Isaac Condon, Eliana Tieke - Fourth grade,
Ari Cohen, Hannah Fretzin - Sixth grade. They competed with other Indiana finalists at the same grade level. Recently, we were notified that we have three top 100 finalists! Their artwork will be exhibited at the Indiana State Museum all through the month of April! The three top 100 finalists are Gabriel Benabou, Eliana Tieke and Ari Cohen. Congratulations to all!

The Siddur party took place on Sunday, March 6. This event is the highlight in First grade Judaic Studies. It's a very special moment when the students receive their first real Siddur. Our Siddur party was a huge success. The children looked so nice and festive! They are very excited to use their Siddurs each morning. Thank you HHAI family for coming and sharing our "Simcha" with us!
Click on Events to see more pictures!

On Tuesday, March 1st, the Middle School students were surprised to be transported back in time to medieval times as part of the Middle School annual integration day. Students rotated through Math / Science, Humanities, Arts, and Judaic stations that included a Black Plague interactive play, a disease outbreak simulation, halachic hand washing, illuminated letter drawing, and a culminating debate about modern day epidemics. Students also enjoyed a true medieval lunch free of utensils, a juggling entertainer, and a professional fencing demonstration.

On Thursday, January 6, Mr. Hart Hasten, one of the founders of the Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis, visited our school and shared his experience during the Holocaust years with the Middle School students and teachers. Mr. Hasten's stories about his escape from the Nazis, struggles in Kazakhstan and return to his homeland were very powerful and inspirational.

Click here to watch videos of Mr. Hasten's presentation!

On Wednesday, 1/12/11, 6th graders spent their afternoons navigating outer space at the Challenger Learning Center in Brownsburg, IN! They completed the simulation with "flying" colors. With half the "crew" in mission control, and half in the spacecraft, students managed to command and fly a spacecraft to the moon to establish a location for a permanent extra-terrestrial research station. Despite a few crises, students not only learned about what it takes to go into the great beyond, they also learned to follow directions and make tough decisions independently. Best of all, by the end of the day, students gained a new appreciation for each other's unique contribution to a team effort. 

On Tuesday, December 14, HHAI students enjoyed meeting children's author, Barbara Morrow. The author of five books for children, Mrs Morrow presented wonderful talks to our 1st -8th graders. Our students enjoyed her picture books, Mr. Mosquito Puts on a Tuxedo and Good Night for Freedom. Students learned that there is plenty to write about here in our own backyard. She shared her writing process and the struggles she has faced getting her work published. Both students and staff received good advice on writing and perseverance.

Last week was filled with exciting Hanukkah events. On the last day of Hanukkah, all elementary and middle school students participated in the Hanukkah Songfest. Go to the "Events" page to view video clips!

The HHAI annual Book Fair was a great success! Students, parents, and teachers were able to find the latest and finest titles for kids and adults. The Book Fair was a great way to get everyone excited about reading. 

Grandparents, Family and Friends Day was a huge success! Over 200 people attended the beautiful breakfast and program held on Wednesday, November 24. Julie Sondhelm, event chairperson, and her army of volunteers did a wonderful job preparing the breakfast and decorating the lobby of the Cultural Arts Center. Mrs. Ann Sloan produced a great musical program featuring students ages 3 through 8th grade. All classrooms were open for visitation. It was wonderful to see so many family and friends touring our school.

Click on Events to see more pictures and videos!

HHAI 5/6 Grade volleyball team came up short in a tough match against a very strong Bethesda team and received the second place in the Indianapolis Independent School League tourney.  Our magical season came to a close.  Wonderful job, girls!  Thank you for your great support parents, teachers and friends!

On Friday, seven HHAI middle school students showcased their technology achievements at the Indiana Computer Educators (ICE) conference. They presented their websites, Flash animations and projects in Microworlds, GameMaker and Scratch.

Click here for more pictures!

On Monday, October 11, we held the first of many Rosh Chodesh (new month) programs. Rosh Chodesh has traditionally been a time for celebration and reflection. That makes it a perfect time to celebrate what our classes are accomplishing. Each Rosh Chodesh a different class will be featured. Parents will be invited to see a program prepared by their child's class. The program will be designed to provide insight into what the class is learning. Parents will then to join the class for lunch. Our first program for Rosh Chodesh Chesvan ( the second month of this new Jewish year 5771), which was very well attended, featured second grade.

Click here to see the video clips recorded during this event!

HHAI Middle School students and staff enjoyed numerous outdoor activities at the Happy Hollow Camp in the Brown County, Indiana. In the picture, one of the advisory groups is performing at the campfire.
Go to Events to see more pictures!!

The Hasten Hebrew Academy scored extremely well on the spring ISTEP exams. Rankings in the Indianapolis Star  show that we ranked first in Science for 4th grade, English/Language Arts/Math for 5th grade and 7th grade and Social Studies for 5th grade and 7th grade. That's five Number One rankings!! The rest of our rankings were almost as impressive, being in the top percentages in all categories (ranging from the top 3% to the top 14%)!
We are so proud of our students and teachers for all the hard work that led to such terrific results!

Students in grades 1-8 had a special visitor--Theodor Hertzl! He traveled back in time to tell us about his life. He emphasized five words in Hebrew, "Im Tirzu Ain Zo Hagada", If you will it, it will not be a legend. He told the students that it only takes one person to make a difference!

Our Grade 8 students and their group leaders have returned from their exciting trip to Israel. They explored various places of the country, met interesting people, learned about Israeli culture and lifestyle.

Click here to see more pictures!

For the second year in a row the Hasten Hebrew Academy hosted the Community Youth Holocaust Program. The program was held on Sunday March 21 in the Cultural Arts Center and included students in grades 5-8. This year's theme was Jewish Resilience highlighting the role of the Partisans. Included in the program were grade-level workshops, live presentations and a candle lighting ceremony. Our own Hasten Hebrew Academy students performed a cantata with students from the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. 

The second annual Torah Fair was held on Wednesday, March 10th. Appropo to the theme of the power of words, special guest artist ventriloquist Chuck Fields entertained and amused students with his dummy Ziggy and audience star Ari Atlas!

The fourth grade did an excellent job depicting their Biblical namesakes presenting living biographies with props and costumes.First place went to Hannah Glazier as Chana, second place to Ella Perel as Leah and third place to Koby Tavel as Yaakov.

The sixth grade interpersonal commandment research boards were colorful and unique with first place going to Rebecca Fogel for her project on not standing idly by when another is in need, second place awarded to Yosef Chincholker for his project on not hating others and third places to both Zoe Law for her work on not embarrassing others as well as to Evelin Ariazza for her work on reproving others.

The eighth graders' "virtual tours" of places of Jewish interest took them around the globe from Australia to China animating their travels in researching the history, antisemitism, music, architecture and foods of their exotic destinations. First place was awarded to Mira Shere(Australia),second places to Nate Meyers (Iran)and Sigal Tavel (China) and third places to Courtney Tuchman(Japan) and Rachel Meyers(Montreal)

Click on the students' names above to see their projects!

HHAI students, teachers, and parents enjoyed traditional Purim celebration held on Friday, February 26.

Pictured, are winners of the Purim Costume Contest.

Click on Events to see more pictures of Purim celebration!

The school's annual Science Fair was held on the evening of February 10th.  Parents and students viewed over 30 projects including the optional participation of 18 3rd and 5th graders. Our 7th grade regional finalists are Greg Belyayev, Audrey Fretzin, Stav Linkon and Naomi Farahan. Alek Bussell was selected as the alternate. A Mad Science demonstration entertained the group during the evening judging. The optional Science Fair participants will be treated to a trip to Science Central in Ft. Wayne .

Purim is February 28. there will be lots of festivities to celebrate. One of the most important aspects of Purim is Matanot L'evyonim, " (gifts for the poor). A requirement of Purim is to give monetary gifts to at least two poor people. Many of us are not personally acquainted with people in dire need to whom we can give these gifts on Purim day. However, we have the opportunity to fulfill this mitzvah by supporting an important cause. We will once again be collecting money for Od Yosef Chai, an organization committed to helping the poor in Israel in a manner that does not compromise the recipient's dignity and self respect. We will begin collecting money on Monday, February 15 and continue through the 26th.

Congratulations to 8th grader, Rachel Meyers, who has been invited to compete in the American Bouldering Series 11 National Championships in Alexandria, Virginia in February. She will compete with climbers from all over the country for a spot on the U.S. national climbing team. Rachel is ranked as one of the top 30 climbers in her age division in the country. Bouldering is a form of indoor rock climbing where the routes are usually shorter, about 15 to 20 feet high, and challenge the climber in core and upper body strength. Good luck Rachel! Menu

After years of struggling to keep all of our classes on the same time, we have found a wireless clock system that will easily allow us to do just that! Special thanks to our PTO who will be underwriting the cost of the radio unit that controls the clocks. We are looking to all of you to help provide the clocks. We have received a special rate of $100 per clock. We are asking parents, grandparents and friends of the Academy to consider purchasing a clock. A $100 donation will provide a clock for one of our classrooms. Please send your checks or call with a credit card and be sure to indicate that your donation is for the purchase of a clock.

It is reminder time, once again, about safety during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. We work hard to make these busy times as safe as possible for our families and staff.

Please note new procedures:

The cafeteria door will remain open until 8:20 a.m. for those elementary students who are arriving just a couple of minutes late. This will relieve the congestion at the front door.

Please note:

SCHOOL STARTS AT 8:15 and all students should be here by then. Early Childhood

Parents: YOU MUST STAY WITH YOUR CARS AT DROP-OFF. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF STAFF FOR PULLING UP. IF YOU WANT TO WALK IN WITH YOUR CHILD, PLEASE PARK IN THE PARKING LOT AND WALK ALONG THE STEPPING STONES TO THE FRONT DOOR!

Early Childhood students who stay for Extended Day will be available for pick-up by 3:20 each afternoon (2:50 on early Friday dismissal days). If you are picking up your Early Childhood student, this should make it a little easier for you.

The crosswalk will be closed to pedestrian traffic at 3:35. Please get in the car line and we will bring your child to you.

Please be kind and courteous to our staff and other parents.

The Chanukah Campaign Kick-off Dinner was held on Sunday, November 8.  Dr. Avivah Zornberg addressed attendees about the story of Ruth :   Becoming Ruth: 'And I am a stranger.'  Over 80 people attended the event which also included remarks from Dr. Jack Cotlar, parent of three Hasten Hebrew Academy graduates and former HAI-Life Award winner.

For pictures of the dinner please click here!

The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis is providing
free subscriptions to a special online program designed
to promote Jewish identity and heritage to children between
the ages of 4 and 10 (see article below). They have
asked us for names and addresses of families that may be
interested. If you do not want us to provide this information
to the Jewish Federation please contact Marcy Ekhaus
at mekhaus@hhai.org by September 29.

Welcome to J-Land!

The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis is proud to
bring J-Land to our community. J-Land is an online virtual
world designed to promote Jewish identity and heritage
to children between the ages of 4-10. J-Land was
developed by Compedia, Ltd, a world leader in developing
educational interactive products, based in Tel Aviv,
Israel.
Through a wide range of educational games and activities,
children will learn about Israel, the Hebrew language,
Jewish topics (history, Holidays, traditions), and
traditional educational subjects (math, reading, science,
problem solving, creative thinking, etc.). J-Land will
even allow children here in our community to safely
communicate with Israeli children in our Israel Partnership
region in the Western Galilee.
To learn more and to register for J-Land, please visit
www.jlandonline.com/indianapolis or contact Michele
Boukai at mboukai@JFGI.org or 317-475-4274.

Recently, HHAI students, teachers, and parents participated in many exciting activities to celebrate Purim.

Click on "Events" to see more pictures!

We have asked some of our parents to tell us what they think of the Hasten Hebrew Academy.  This week we are featuring comments by Kindergarten parents. 

Kathy and Steve Frankel, parents of Josh:

"We are impressed with the innovative teaching methods and energy Mrs. Neal and Mrs. Rotstein bring to the classroom on a daily basis.  We have seen our son grow and develop by leaps and bounds.  He comes home singing cute songs that teach phonics with hand movements, such as, "E the double ee that always says 'knee'."  As a former Kindergarten teacher, I see the professionalism and high standards the HHAI Kindergarten provides for students and parents."

Rob and Daniella Katz, Parents of Natanya:

We asked Natanya "What do you like about kindergarden?"  With a big smile in her face she answered:
"I like listening to my teacher tell the Parsha [the weekly Bible story] in English.
I like playing high-five tag in gym.
I like the quiet in the library.
I like playing different instruments in music class.
I like the computers and toy kitchen in the classroom.

That puts a big smile on our faces!!!

Natanya is a happy child and almost every day she comes home with a new song she's learned and is eager to sing to us.  We have fun doing her homework together, like making funny sentences out of the new words she's learning.
What we like the most is hearing Natanya complain about not going to school on the days she's home.

Shawnna West,  mother of Tristen:

My son has attended HHAI for the past two years and has enjoyed it fully.  He attended the pre-school program last year and is currently in the Kindergarten class.  I really like the student teacher ratio, and the high quality education he is receiving.  He has made so many new friends and the teachers and staff treat us like family.  Everyone has been so helpful, caring and has gone above and beyond my expectations.

My son enjoys both the secular and Judaic studies.  I feel both teachers are highly involved and dedicated.  They go out of their way to do special fun things to keep school fun.

The extended day program has been wonderful also, especially since I am a single parent.  The program continues to build on what he is working on in the classroom and allows him to attend extracurricular activities he normally wouldn't get to do.

I really appreciate the entire staff at HHAI and my son is so lucky to have the opportunity to attend such a wonderful and dedicated school.

Jean and Michel Benabou, parents of Gabriel:

This is Gabriel's first year at Hasten. Moving from California to Indiana was a difficult change, but Mrs. Neal and Mrs. Rotstein have helped to make the transition smooth.  Being at Hasten has allowed Gabriel to grow so much, socially as well as academically.

Everyday, after school, he loves to relay what fun he has experienced. It seems his hours are full of excitement and new horizons: Hebrew, T'fillah, reading, writing,P.E.,  field trips, music, art, library.....and so much more!
We are so excited, and so happy to have found such a warm and enriching environment where our child can feel safe and secure to express himself and to learn new things.

Tuesday,  March 24,  7:15 pm Early Childhood

For parents of children in Early Childhood.

Who Wants to Play? How Children Learn through Play

Speakers: Mrs. Paula Fogle (Maon) and Mrs. Bes Neal (Kindergarten)

Please note change of location!!

At the home of Adi and Shay Abaiov, 2610 Wineland Creek Drive,  Westfield (136th and Towne Rd. in the Lakes of Towne subdivision).

*This program is directed to

parents; please, no children.  Thank you for your

understanding.*

The Torah Fair held this week was the culmination of
weeks of work by the fourth and sixth grade classes. 
Fourth grade's theme was Jewish Symbols.  The students
worked in pairs.  Their projects included The Four Species,
Torah Scroll, The Star of David, The Western Wall, The
Ark, Tzitzit, Challah, Shofar and Olive Branch/Dove.
 
Each sixth grade student did his/her own project.  The
theme was Interpersonal Relationships/ Mitzvot ben adam
Ichavero.  Projects included Tzadaka, Revenge/Grudge,
Hospitality, Visiting the Sick, Respecting Teachers, Honor-
ing Parents, Gossip, Honesty and Tefillin.
 
Many visitors came to see the projects and enjoy the Wheel
of Wisdom game show.

What a marvelous job the first graders did at the Siddur party.  Each and every one of them performed to the utmost of their ability.  Not only did they have to act, but they were stage managers as well. The students learned how to stand proudly on stage, to speak loudly and clearly, and say their parts with confidence.  In short, they were coached on becoming professional actors almost like on Broadway! It's hard to believe that they are only six or seven years old. "Kol-HaKavod"!!!
 
The siddur party is the highlight in first grade Judaic Studies.  It's a very special moment when the students receive their first real siddurs.
 
The siddur party entailed a lot of preparation. First and foremost,
students learned to read Hebrew and began to understand the
t'filot (prayers).  They also learned to find the different blessings
and prayers found in the siddur.  Once they became more familiar
with the morning prayers, they began memorizing their lines for
the performance, which included themes from the daily prayers
as well as songs from our Tal Am Hebrew Language program, an
integral part of the first grade Judaic curriculum.
And most importantly, the students learned that the Siddur ac-
companies us all the time; consisting of prayers and blessings for
each occasion in our daily lives...
Our Siddur  party was a huge success.  The children
looked so nice and festive, especially the boys with their Kippot
that came all the way from Eretz Israel and the girls with their
special headbands.  The children and their families received a
one-of-a-kind painted challah board and beautifully decorated
candle sticks for Shabbat.
 
The first graders are excited to use their Siddurs each morning.
 
Thank you H.H.A.I family for coming and sharing our "Simcha"
with us.
 
HaMorah Oranit and the students in Kita Alef.

We have asked some of our parents to tell us what they think of the Hasten Hebrew Academy. Here is an article written by Judith and Allon Friedman. In the coming weeks we will feature other articles. If you have something you
would like to say about our school please send it to me via e-mail at mekhaus@hhai.org.

Why the Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis?

By Dr. Allon Friedman and Mrs. Judith Friedman

Commitment to a Strong Jewish Identity: We are committed
to raising our three children to have strong and healthy
Jewish identities, and understand that a formal Jewish education
is a recipe for success. Our children are immersed in Jewish
historical, religious, ethical, and cultural traditions on a
daily basis, and they clearly relish the experience. Their studies
are also infused with a love for Israel and the Zionist
idea. While some people express the misguided concern that a
Jewish day school experience might place their children at a
disadvantage as they enter the wider world, this fear is unfounded.
A Jewish education offers our sons a dependable
rudder with which to navigate the often choppy seas of life,
and a time-tested guide to help them understand the world and
their place in it.

A Well-Rounded, Rigorous Education: Having been
trained as a lawyer and physician, we expect nothing less for
our children than an intellectually rigorous and challenging
educational experience. Fortunately, the Hasten Hebrew
Academy has met our expectations in both its secular and Jewish
curricula. Our sons' teachers have been wonderful and
completely invested in developing their intellectual, social, and
emotional skills. Furthermore, the learning environment is nurturing
and the school community is warm, supportive and tolerant.
We walk into the Academy and honestly feel like we're
walking into an extension of our home. Our children feel the
same way. That sense of comfort, security and genuine caring
is a very special feeling. As parents we couldn't ask for anything
more.

The Best Education in Indianapolis…Period: We don't
understand why Jewish families would consider sending their
children anywhere else. The Hasten Hebrew Academy offers
a superior secular and Jewish education from preschool to 8th
grade in a loving and nurturing environment. Plus, the need
for after-school Hebrew classes becomes unnecessary, thus
freeing up valuable time on afternoons and weekends. We
look forward to the day when even more Indianapolis Jewish
families discover this unique and wonderful community institution
for themselves.

Parents and Friends of

HHAI Are Welcome to Attend

Sunday Feb. 22^nd 7pm  

For parents of children in Early Childhood

Who Wants to Play? How Children Learn through Play

Speakers: Mrs. Paula Fogle(Maon Teacher, ages 2-3) and

Mrs. Bes Neal (Kindergarten Teacher)

At the home of Biana and Adam Sharp, 13462 Spotswood St., Carmel

These events are directed to parents; please, no children.  Thank you for your understanding.

 
Students in grades 1-8 must be dropped
off at the cafeteria doors between 7:30
and 8:15.  After 8:15 they need to come to
the front. All cars (Early Childhood-
grade 8) must wait in the Early Childhood
Car line until reaching the sidewalk be-
fore having children exit the car.  If stu-
dents have to exit the car on the passenger
side, parents must get out of the car and
escort the student to the sidewalk.  After
8:30 parents must come in to sign the
student in.

 
Win a 2009 Jeep 
Patriot!!
 
Raffle tickets are just $25 Each or 
5 for $100!
 
Tell your family!!  Tell your friends!
 
Tickets are available at the front 
office.  For more information call 
251-1261 or stop by! 
 
Tickets are on sale now!
 
The drawing will be held at the 
HAI-Life Dinner held on 
May 31, 2009.
 
 
Raffle License # 116002

Our own Hasten Hebrew Academy alumnus, Rachelli
Rosenfeld, is starring in the lead role as Pinocchio in the
Hanna Sacks Bais Yaakov production of The Lie That
Grew.  Fellow Alumnus, Chaya Tabas is also appearing in
this show.  Women and girls (grade 4 and up) are invited
to travel to Chicago to see this wonderful production. A
bus will be leaving from the school at 2:30.  The bus will
take everyone directly to the theater and will return later
that night.  The only charge for this event will be for din-
ner-approximately $10 per person.  Please call or e-mail
Monica Rosenfeld at 255-3604 or
mrose3604@sbcglobal.net  for more information or to
make a reservation.

The Jewish Federation is offering grants for summer camping
experiences. For the second year, the Federation is giving an
Incentive Grant from the Federation and the Foundation for
Jewish Camp, which provides $1,000 for a first time camper
who attends an overnight non-profit Jewish camp for a minimum
of three weeks. The grant is not need based and is
available to children between grades 3-11. The camp must be
listed on the FJC website, www.jewishcamp.org. Applications
and further information is available on the Federation website,
www.jfgi.org.
Rothbard Family Jewish Camp Scholarships are available to
children between the ages of 8-18. These scholarships are
need based, and must be used for a stay of at least two weeks
at a non-profit Jewish camp.
The Rothbard Israel Trip Program offers need-based grants to
children in grades 6-12 for use on an Israel trip sponsored by a
recognized organization.
Federation Israel Experience Scholarships are available to children
in grades 9-12 , who go on a trip sponsored by a recognized
organization. These scholarships are need- based.
For more information about all these opportunities go to the
Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis website:
www.jfgi.org
Or contact Michele Boukai at the Jewish Federation:
475-4274

Alumnus, Danny Farahan (Hasten Hebrew Academy class of 1996) was vacationing with his father, David and brother, Mikey (Hasten Hebrew Academy class of 2003) when he received word that he was to report for duty with the Israel Defense Forces fighting in Gaza. After a week of training, he was in Gaza among other brave IDF soldiers who were fighting for the security of the State of Israel.

In the picture, Danny and Mikey stand together just outside of Gaza.

The issue surrounding the authentication of Invitation Codes for the ISTEP+ Parent Network has been resolved. Indiana parents can now access the Web site(www.doe.in.gov/ istepparentnetwork) using their previously created Username and Password or the Invitation Code that was provided to them by their school. However, some schools and parents are receiving a "technical difficulties" message when attempting to log into the site. This appears to occur for those individuals who have made an unsuccessful prior attempt to access the site before the re-launch. If this applies to you, please try entering your Invitation Code again and creating a different Username to access the site. Your Password may remain the same.

If you need help navigating the site or have additional questions, Please contact customer support at: ISTEP+ Parent Network Customer Support 1-800-481-4769 indianasupport@grow.net

We are very excited to offer a Monday Night Open Gym Volleyball for HHAI teachers, parents and students. Those who have been attending on Monday nights have had a great time. It continues this coming Monday, January 5, from 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm. No previous volleyball experience is necessary. There is no charge for attending the Open Gym, however we would appreciate small donations ($1 - $5), which will benefit our Athletic Programs. Be sure to join us, we are having a great time!

Michael Voskoboynik Volleyball Coach

Our Middle School students have been working diligently on the Holocaust Memorial room project.  The room itself is being built with the generous help of Mr. Leonard Harris.  At this time, the students are planning and conducting interviews  with Holocaust survivors.  In the picture, our guests are sharing memories of danger and hardship during the Second World War.

September 29, Erev Rosh Hashana-
2:00 Dismissal
September 30, October 1
Rosh Hashana-No School

Wednesday, October 8, Erev Yom Kippur
2:00 Dismissal
Thursday, October 9, Yom Kippur,
No School

 
Monday, October 13, Erev Sukkot
2:00 Dismissal
Tuesday October 14 and Wednesday,
Oct. 15, Sukkot-No school

 
Monday, October 20, Hoshanah Rabbah
2:00 Dismissal
Tuesday, October 21, Shemini Atzeret,
No School; Wednesday October 22,
Simchat Torah, No School

Sunday, October 26, 4:00
Family Bingo Night

Middle School General Studies

By Mr. Matt Tucker, Ms. Lonica Solomon and Ms. Liz Williams

  The halls are alive with the bustle of returning Middle School students and our new sixth grade group.   Students have been excited to meet their new teachers and advisors.  I asked Mrs. Ekhaus if we could provide an update as to how the teachers and students are doing. I am excited to work together with Ms. Solomon and Mrs. Williams.  They are dedicated and bring new fresh experiences to their teaching.
Advisories have formed, and students are preparing for the Middle School retreat to McCormick's Creek State Park.  The retreat will begin early in the morning on September 3rd  and students will return to HHAI on September 4th in the afternoon.  The purpose of the trip is for students and staff to strengthen their relationships and trust with each other.  Activities will include horseback riding, hiking through caves, a campfire, relay races, art projects and more!!

Mr. Tucker:  In the math room- The Olympic Games have been a resource for math students to problem solve.  It has been nice to have numbers in the news with tenths and hundredths to examine as students work with decimals.  Students have been excited each day to review the latest scores, culminating in a discussion of how the official Olympic scoring places countries in their respective order.  Did you know that a country with one gold medal places higher than a country with 300 silvers and no gold?!  My 5th and 6th graders felt that this system did not seem fair.  We devised our own system: gold=7 points, silver=6, bronze=5.  Students were quick to devise a system that put the United States significantly above China.  Hey, what can we say?  We're American.

Ms. Solomon:  In the science room-  This has been a fun couple of weeks for me getting know the students, staff, and families here at the Hasten Hebrew Academy.  I have also really enjoyed working with the science curriculum used in the state of Indiana.  I came to the Hasten Hebrew Academy after teaching at a Bronx high school for the last three years. I studied neuroscience in college, and cannot wait to explore some of my favorite brain-related topics with the students during the appropriate units.  So far, the middle-schoolers have blown me away with their insightful questions and comments.  Everyday has been groundbreaking for them as they learn about what makes up the stuff of the universe and how to problem solve like a scientist.  The 7th graders had a great time donning aprons, goggles, and gloves last week as they tried to decipher the ingredients of their own "mystery mixes."  The 6th graders drew (and smelled) the skin of an onion through a microscope, surprising us with their aptitude for interpreting what they saw.  I look forward to many more adventures in the lab!

Mrs. Williams:  In the Language Arts room- What an exciting group this is!  I, too, have been getting to know everyone here.  In my classes, we have shared a bit about themselves with an "I Am" poetry project.  Not only did we learn a tremendous amount about each student (which will be put to good use during homework and writing assignments), but the students learned a great deal about their new English teacher too!  We are continuing our critical reading skills, working on word origins through vocabulary, and doing lots of writing, writing, and more writing.  We are closely aligned with state standards, so everything has a purpose and a skill to accomplish.  The students are also excited about our independent reading journals.  This is a chance to have a continuing reader response to books of their choosing through a reader response letter format.  In other words, they read, they write me letters about it, and I responds in a letter back!  This is a place where we are allowed to speak our opinions and have our views, but must use because… to back it up.  We are looking forward to a great year!

Congratulations to the 2008 graduating class of the Hasten Hebrew Academy.  The following students completed eighth grade and will continue their studies at a variety of high schools:  Ariel Humphrey, Talia Avisror, Neeli Rhodes, Elizabeth Kolesnikov, Chaya Tabas, Rachel Fogel and Talia Berday-Sacks, Noam Rose, Ben Stoller, Marty Weiss, Federico Artaza and Cal Shere

We wish them well as they pursue their studies.