New Parent Handbook

Educational and Developmental Goals and Objectives

Intellectual - Academic

Students should:

• Have an appreciation for the value of learning.
• Have confidence in their ability to succeed.
• Develop strong learning skills and study habits, including the ability to work independently.
• The abilities to phrase meaningful questions, to acquire necessary information, and to reason logically will be emphasized over mechanical absorption of facts.

General Studies

Students should:

• Be competent in the use of English as a spoken and written language, and be able to use it as a sensitive and precise means of communication.
• Be able to read, enjoy and analyze all genres of literature.
• Be competent in the understanding and use of mathematical skills and concepts appropriate to their grade levels.
• Be knowledgeable concerning the history and government of Canada and British Columbia.
• Have an understanding of how our society and others function.
• Have a sound background in general science.

Judaic Studies

Students should:

• Be competent in the use of Hebrew as a spoken and written language, and as a tool for the study of modern and traditional texts.
• Be familiar with the siddur and able to participate in synagogue services.
• Be familiar with the textual background, development and observance of the Jewish holidays in the home and synagogue.
• Understand the meaning and proper practice of mitzvot.
• Have an understanding of Jewish history, its continuity and its relevance to the present.
• Be familiar with the history, geography and culture of the State of Israel.

Religious, Ethical and Personal Development

Students should:

• Have a positive sense of Jewish identity.
• Have a sense of responsibility for their own behavior.
• Be open to the viewpoints of others, including persons different from themselves.
• Practice tzedakah, through their attention to the needs of others, their acceptance of others despite differences, and their willingness to give concrete help.
• Feel love and awe of G-d.
• Respect the importance of mitzvot and practice them as part of their everyday lives.
• Participate in, understand and enjoy observance of Jewish holidays.
• Feel love for the State of Israel - the land, the people, the language and the culture.
• Be actively involved in Jewish communal life.
• Share their increasing knowledge of Judaism with their families. Together the family should have an increased commitment to the perpetuation of Jewish life.
• Possess the motivation to achieve high standards while being sensitive to others.
• Be capable of working both individually and performing as a member of a group when each is appropriate.
• Have an awareness and appreciation for the fine arts and performing arts.
• Have an appreciation of the arts as they relate to Jewish customs and religious observances.
• Be comfortable expressing themselves creatively through various media.
• Be aware that care of the body is a positive Jewish precept and should have the knowledge and attitudes necessary to develop and protect their physical health.
• Have experience in a variety of physical activites including: exercise, structured skill development, individual and team sports, and unstructured activity.

Parents and The Richmond Jewish Day School

To achieve a healthy educational and spiritual environment we need the full cooperation of all parents to support and respect the school's staff, regulations and values and to encourage their children to do the same. Positive ongoing parent-teacher and parent-school relationships are important in helping the school provide the best education possible for its students.

Concerns... how to address them effectively

From time to time concerns arise which can be resolved through discussion. At The Richmond Jewish Day School we welcome opportunities to receive constructive feedback to make us more effective in educating your children. If you or your child's teacher have a concern about your child's progress, it must be discussed so that the best interests of the child may be served.

1. Discussion with the teacher	In situations where you would like to speak with your child's teacher, please leave a message at the school office and the teacher will contact you as soon as possible.
2. Discussion with the principal	If you feel that more input is required, please contact the principal.

Discussion with the teacher should always be the first step.

Visiting the classroom... when and how

The faculty and students are delighted to have you visit programs, holiday celebrations and classes, but please remember that a visit affords only a fractional view of the total classroom perspective. We ask that you wait until the end of October if you wish to visit so that the teacher and children have a chance to establish their classroom routines. To arrange a classroom observation, please contact the teacher at least 24 hours in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made. During these visits please do not discuss important issues regarding your child. Another time should be set aside to talk with the teacher about your individual questions or concerns. Visits will be scheduled for approximately 30 minutes in duration.

Conflict Resolution

The preferred and best method to resolve a school concern between a parent/student and a teacher is to have the parent/student arrange a discussion with the teacher. If the problem is not resolved to the satisfaction of everyone concerned a meeting with the principal can be arranged.

Members of the RJDS Board of Directors should only be consulted if the teacher or principal are unable to assist in resolving the concern. It is deemed to be unethical and inappropriate to discuss a staff or student related problem with a Board member before approaching a teacher or other staff member first. Remember that the RJDS is a small community, therefore, trying to resolve a concern at the source is always preferred.

It is important that children know that parents will always be available to support them, however, there are always two sides to a story. Furthermore, teachers are always eager to assist students and parents especially if problems are brought to their attention during the early stages. Obtaining additional information should always be deemed a positive first step to conflict resolution.

The Parent Association

One way you can help the school grow and realize its vision is by supporting and participating in the Parent Association. Research shows that children have a more positive outlook at school when their parents are actively involved. The Parent Association strives to enhance the feeling of community and belonging to the school by organizing family - oriented activities, providing volunteers for school programs, raising funds for special projects, providing parent parking lot patrol, volunteers for school programs, hot lunch programs and classroom treats, and promoting educational activities which reinforce Jewish values.