Jewish Life Digital Edition June 2015 | Page 57

PHOTOGRAPHS: SUPPLIED Rabbi Craig Kacev, general director SABJE The balance between general and Judaic learning, as well as the many other offerings in a school, is achieved through the healthy approach and understanding of the importance of each to the holistic development of the child. With a balanced approach and the understanding of the particular community being served, all aspects can be integrated and children can be given enough avenues to achieve in an area of their strength. Problems arise when there is not a good fit between a child and the school offering, as future options are then at times limited or children rebel against the environment. The King David high schools in particular offer a tremendous range [encompassing kodesh, secular, extramural, etc]; while viewing each offering as important, the academic rigour and Jewish learning and experience make up the core of what the schools stand for. Enjoyment emanates from engagement with these choices as they are presented at the right level in an environment with the appropriate social and emotional support. YESHIVA COLLEGE PRIMARY SCHOOL Joseph Beer Education in our world is constantly evolving and moving. It is often hard to keep up with the fast-changing trends. With all the great 21st century inventions, it is important to note that as Jewish people, it is vital to ensure our children receive a dual curriculum of both Jewish and general studies. We are a nation that does not function in isolation to the world, and further, we cannot disconnect to our heritage, therefore each curriculum cannot exist without the other. Yes, there are children that – due to certain challenges – might find a dual curriculum trying; however, as educators it is our responsibility to ensure that we think out of the box to educate those learners who can be accommodated within our school system. They should have a curriculum that is modified and adjusted according to the child’s needs. Each child is indeed an island of his own and WITH ALL THE GREAT 21ST CENTURY INVENTIONS, IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT AS JEWISH PEOPLE, IT IS VITAL TO ENSURE OUR CHILDREN RECEIVE A DUAL CURRICULUM OF BOTH JEWISH AND GENERAL STUDIES. Joseph Beer