KA CC Archive Sep 2025

Shalom Kol Ami!

As summer winds down and the month of Elul continues, we turn our hearts and minds toward the High Holidays—a season of reflection, growth, and renewal. This is our time to think about how we can improve, repair relationships, and begin the new year with intention and hope.

Kol Yeladim is no different! We began our school year with joyful activities and meaningful learning to help our students prepare for the Days of Awe. Our Kick-Off event was a wonderful opportunity to connect, meet new friends, sign up for committees, and celebrate the vibrant community we are so blessed to share.

This month, our focus turns to the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, followed by the fall festivals of Sukkot and Simchat Torah. Our dedicated teachers have prepared thoughtful lessons, and our School Board Chair, Shaina Shuford, is launching our first “Shalom Chug” event—a new monthly program that replaces our weekly chug due to changes in staffing. Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 7, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. in the Boardroom. This program is open to all PreK–7th graders. Check your email for more details.

We are also thrilled to welcome back Shalom Yeladim this year! Our first gathering will be on Sunday, September 7, from 10:00–10:45 a.m. Rabbi Chaya and Ms. Shaina look forward to another year of fun, music, and learning with our youngest learners—newborns through age 3. Be sure to register on our website; we can’t wait to see you!

Another exciting opportunity this month is our Reverse Tashlich event, sponsored by the Social Action Committee. On Sunday, September 28, we will join together to help clean up a waterway on the USF campus as a way of honoring creation and beginning the year with acts of care. Please register on the Kol Ami website to participate.

Of course, our Fall holiday celebrations are just around the corner! Be sure to check the website for details on all of our upcoming programs, including Sukkah building, Pizza in the Hut, Rock the Sukkah, and our joyful Simchat Torah celebration in October.

On a personal note, I want to sincerely thank everyone who has reached out to support me and my family as I recover from surgery. The love and care of my Kol Ami family means more than words can express—I truly cannot imagine my life without you. I am proud to be part of this community and deeply grateful for each of you.

Wishing you a sweet, healthy, and happy New Year—Shanah Tovah U’Metukah!

With gratitude,
Jenn