YESHIVA
At JIQ Boys’ Middle and High School, the past several weeks have brought exciting opportunities for students to explore new interests, prepare for their futures, and celebrate their accomplishments. From the introduction of a wide variety of extracurricular clubs to an informative presentation about post-high school education, students have continued to grow both inside and outside the classroom. The arrival of Rosh Chodesh Kislev added another meaningful occasion, bringing the school together for a musical Hallel, spirited dancing, and the recognition of students who demonstrated excellence throughout the previous month.
NEW STUDENT CLUBS
One of the latest developments at JIQ has been the expansion of extracurricular opportunities for both middle and high school students. Recognizing that education extends beyond textbooks and examinations, the school has introduced a variety of clubs designed to encourage creativity, develop practical skills, and allow students to discover new interests.
High school students now have six clubs available to them, each offering a different opportunity for personal development.
The Chess Club, led by Mr. Gavrielov, provides students with an opportunity to sharpen their strategic thinking, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. Chess challenges students to think several moves ahead, evaluate different possibilities, and exercise patience when making decisions.
For students interested in technology, Mr. Shaw leads the Coding Club, introducing participants to the world of computer programming and logical problem-solving. As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in everyday life, these skills can provide a valuable foundation for future academic and professional interests.
Students with a passion for music can participate in the Music Club, led by AJ, while those interested in strengthening their Hebrew language skills can join the Ivrit Club under the guidance of Morah Tammy Mierov.
The Woodworking Club, led by Mr. Katz, offers students a hands-on opportunity to develop craftsmanship, creativity, and practical skills. Meanwhile, the Debate Club, under the direction of Mr. Blom, encourages students to strengthen their public speaking, critical thinking, and ability to construct thoughtful arguments.
Middle school students have also received opportunities tailored to their interests. Seventh graders can participate in the Newspaper Club, led by Mrs. Feldman, where they can explore writing, reporting, and communication. Eighth graders have the opportunity to develop their athletic abilities through the Basketball Club, led by Coach Chris Todd, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Together, these clubs reflect JIQ’s commitment to developing well-rounded students. Whether a boy is interested in technology, athletics, language, music, or craftsmanship, the school aims to provide an environment in which his individual talents can flourish.
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE: RABBI PELBERG VISITS JIQ
As students progress through high school, questions about their futures become increasingly important. Choosing the right educational path after graduation is a significant decision, and JIQ continues to help its students become familiar with the opportunities available to them.
Recently, students in 10th through 12th grades welcomed Rabbi Pelberg, who visited the school to discuss the Sara Schenirer college program available to boys following high school.
The presentation introduced students to an additional option for pursuing higher education and encouraged them to begin thinking about their academic and professional goals beyond their years at JIQ.
For many high school students, understanding the different educational pathways available is an important part of preparing for adulthood. Opportunities to hear directly from representatives of educational programs can help students make more informed decisions about their futures.
A special thank you to Mrs. Feldman for arranging this informative presentation and providing students with the opportunity to meet Rabbi Pelberg.
By introducing students to educational opportunities beyond graduation, JIQ reinforces the importance of thoughtful planning, continued learning, and preparing for the responsibilities that await them.
WELCOMING KISLEV WITH MUSIC, DANCING, AND HALLEL
The arrival of Rosh Chodesh Kislev brought an atmosphere of simcha to JIQ as students and Rebbeim gathered to celebrate the beginning of the new Jewish month.
Following the morning davening, Shlomo Mash and Mr. A led a special musical Hallel, bringing an uplifting dimension to the Rosh Chodesh tefillot. The celebration continued with dancing, allowing students to express their joy together as a school community.
Rosh Chodesh provides an opportunity to recognize the passage of time through the Jewish calendar and approach each new month with renewed purpose. The month of Kislev carries particular significance as it leads toward Chanukah, a celebration of Jewish faith, perseverance, and the enduring light of Torah.
Through music and dancing, students were able to experience the joy of Rosh Chodesh in a way that extended beyond the words of the tefillah. The celebration served as a reminder that Jewish life is not only about fulfilling obligations but also about finding genuine happiness and connection through mitzvot.
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: MONTHLY STUDENT AWARDS
The Rosh Chodesh celebration also provided an opportunity to recognize students for their accomplishments during the previous month.
Led by Rabbi Leibowitz, the school’s Rebbeim presented monthly awards to select students, acknowledging their achievements and contributions.
Recognizing students is an important part of creating an educational environment in which effort, responsibility, and personal development are valued. These awards provide an opportunity to celebrate individual accomplishments while encouraging the entire student body to continue striving for excellence.
The presentation also reinforced an important message: success is not measured solely by academic performance, but also by the development of character, commitment to Torah, and the effort students invest in becoming better individuals.
By incorporating the awards into the Rosh Chodesh gathering, the school brought together two important elements of Jewish education: celebrating the joy of a new month and recognizing the growth and accomplishments of its students.
GROWING TOGETHER
The latest developments at JIQ demonstrate the many ways in which the school seeks to prepare its students for meaningful and successful futures. Extracurricular clubs provide opportunities to explore talents and develop new skills, educational presentations encourage students to consider their next steps, and schoolwide celebrations strengthen the bonds between students and their Rebbeim.
Perhaps most importantly, these experiences remind students that growth takes many forms. It can be found in learning a new skill, considering an educational opportunity, celebrating a friend’s achievement, or joining together in song and tefillah.
As the month of Kislev begins, JIQ Boys’ Middle and High School looks forward to continuing its mission of nurturing young men who are knowledgeable, capable, and deeply connected to their Torah values and community.
Sponsorship opportunities are available, and Maaser money can be used.
Please call 718-480-0900 or email office@jiqboys.org for more information.
By Moshe Tuvia Ailyarov
