Silverstein Hebrew Academy Holds Third Annual Torah Fair

Great Neck, NY — Silverstein Hebrew Academy (SHA) recently held its third annual Torah Fair, a tradition which celebrates the founder of SHA, Stanley Silverstein, and his passion for Jewish education. To prepare for the event, middle school students researched, explored, and discovered essential questions for this year’s Torah Fair theme, The 5 W's of Judaism, Don't ask Alexa - Ask a SHA Middle School Student! Student projects covered a variety of topics, including, How Do We Fight Anti-Semitism Today?, Why Should We Be Proud Jews?, Why Do We Dip Dishes in the Mikvah? and many other questions highlighting Jewish traditions.

The event was kicked off by Executive Director Rabbi Ezagui who shared empowering words with students and guests, followed by Dean of School Rabbi Yoseph Geisinsky who told a moving story about religious persecution. Chanie Geisinsky, the school’s associate head of school, went on to describe the purpose and passion behind the Torah Fair and how it originated to pay tribute to the school’s founder, Stanley Silverstein. Stanley Silverstein dedicated his life to children studying at SHA—from art to Torah learning, he took pride in every child’s accomplishments and success.

Several individuals took time to share meaningful and powerful memories about Stanley Silverstein, including his great-grandson, Josh Leventhal. “My great grandfather loved all Jews, from anywhere and everywhere in the world,” said Josh, currently a middle school student at SHA. “He enjoyed speaking to new people and learning about them, their experiences, and their opinions.”

Following the opening remarks, students shared their Torah Fair projects with administrators, teachers, family and community members. Each student spent weeks conducting research, exploring, and discovering the essential answers to their assigned question.

“Guests and parents were highly impressed at the level of research, creativity, and expertise that the students presented in their projects,” said Head of School Shireen Butman.

At the end of the event, Ms. Butman recognized students who have excelled in Judaic studies throughout the year with awards. Those honored included Odelia Levian, who received the Outstanding Achievement Award in Judaic Studies, and Nicole Datikash and Daniel Karkowsky, who both received the Outstanding Progress Award in Judaic Studies.

For more information on the Silverstein Hebrew Academy in Great Neck, please visit http://www.shagn.org/.