Upper School

Our teachers are doing so many great lessons in their classrooms–I hope you hear about the discussions and activities your kids are part of here!

8th graders had a “healthy sexuality” workshop with an amazing educator from Planned Parenthood, followed by a discussion of Jewish perspectives. Our goal is to encourage questions and respect for health and safety. Students were very thoughtful and seemed to appreciate the open discussion.

8th and 9th graders got to hear about the URJ’s new “6 Points” sports camp from Randy Coleman, the camp director. A few Emanu El kids have already gotten to attend this camp, and think it’s amazing!

10th graders and parents met on February 8 to learn more about Confirmation, and to explore the values behind this milestone event. There was a lot of good discussion about what’s most important in life, and how Jewish community adds to those things.

11th graders finished their Comparative Religions course by talking with a Hindu friend of Ms. Brooks, and seeing photos of the religious sites Ms. Brooks has visited all over the world.

12th graders visited Houston Jewish Funeral home on Feb 15 to learn about Jewish customs and beliefs regarding death and burial. This is a very informative session, and somehow uplifting.

The entire Upper School met at Beth Yeshurun on February 22 to experience the “Faces of Israel” program with Beth Yeshurun and Brith Shalom students. It’s fun to change faces and scenery every so often, and the program was thought-provoking and useful.

Seven 11th and 12th graders went to Wash, DC, with Ms. Meyer and Mr. Duke for the Religious Action Center’s “L’Taken” Social Justice Seminar, Feb 10-13. Despite the freezing weather, they had a great time and learned a great deal!

The 8th grade overnight retreat was moved from February 24 to March 3, so we’ll have news of that in the next Helfman Herald!
 
Upper School dinners
March 21: lasagna      March 28: turkey sandwiches
Dinner (which always includes a veggie option) costs $9 for those who are not pre-paid!
 
Dates to remember:
Friday, March 2: 8th gr overnight at 5:30 pm in the Oshman Multi-Purpose Room
Wed, March 7: Special Purim program from 6 – 8 pm! Come at 5 for dinner and carnival!
Wed, March 14: Closed for spring break
Wed, March 28: 11th grade parent program

Dinner (which always includes a veggie option) costs $9 for those who are not pre-paid!
 

 
Lisa Stone, Upper School principal

(Lisas@emanuelhouston.org, 713-535-6400 ext 236)