Pavla B-W
Class of 2013  The trip started out as I expected. Sleepy teenagers in the early morning at the airport, the time consumption of going through security, the long line our class made at Starbucks, and so on. When we got on our bus in Las Vegas, the city teased me, making me wish I could stay, instead of heading to the national parks of Utah. Instead, after a long bus drive, I found I was slightly infatuated with the little town of Springdale, UT, a tiny place with a population of less than 800. It had art galleries, grocery stores, and shops with colorful rocks for tourists like me. My room at the Quality Inn was comfortable, despite the smell of burned cookies wafting down the hallway. The striking thing about Springdale was that if you went outside, you looked up, and there was a vast mountain range balanced above the desert terrain, made of beautiful red and orange rock.
During the first afternoon, as part of the hiking in Zion National Park, we took a solo walk through a lower part of the park, and while walking along the clear water of the Virgin River I had a couple up-close interactions with the nature there. I walked, and I paused, and turning my head to the right, saw about six deer calmly munching the plants on a small hillside next to me. My friend declared she had a favorite deer, the closet one to the path. Another classmate tried to befriend a squirrel on a rock, and because the squirrel had no inclination to move, we managed to take a video of it. It was after this day spent in Zion that I realized I was homesick in an unusual way. No, not for my family or house in San Francisco; I discovered I was missing the natural “home” I had grown up with, almost every summer. Yosemite has always held a special place in my heart, for it’s astounding beauty, smells, and location, just outside Camp Mather, where I used to go every summer with my family. By visiting Zion, with a type of landscape I had never before experienced, I realized that when I think of hiking or a national park, I envision Yosemite. In Bryce Canyon the next day, I kept this in mind and tried to open myself to a new kind of natural beauty, one made up of dramatic jagged red rocks, plunging far down below me, which looked like coral castles. Walking through mud and snow, with strong wind in my face, it felt like I was on top of a whole kingdom. Before departing for Las Vegas on Thursday, the bus stopped in Zion once more, and we piled out for three minutes of silence on a bridge over the river. I tried to get to the trail beyond the bridge, but it was snowing and the mud on the ground was so thick that I was literally skating in it- the mud stuck to my hiking boots made me slide left and right. After petting the horses in the nearby stables, I climbed back on the bus, off to Vegas. Las Vegas is a beautiful place in its own right, but after the sights just witnessed, I think some of the intrigue fell a little flat. We stayed the night at the Orleans hotel, and I ate fantastic falafel at Sababa, a Kosher Israeli-run restaurant. That evening, some of my classmates went off to the Paris Hotel, or bowling in the Orleans, but I opted for a movie (Limitless - I don’t particularly recommend it) in the multi-screen theater. On Friday morning we trudged to the airport, sad to head home. Once there we learned that our flight have been cancelled, but rather than be upset I was excited because this meant that I had more time to bond with this group I had already become so close with. A group of us ended up staying an extra night, unable to get a flight out, and I think I can speak for many of those people by saying that this would be one of the highlights of the trip (who knew buffet dinner at Caesar’s would make everyone so happy?). In the end, postcard perfect views, city lights, and full bellies made for a rewarding journey that I will never forget. Sophomore Journey Toward Nature and Spirit
Zion & Bryce National Parks and Las Vegas
March 21-25, 2011
JCHS students traveled to Las Vegas and to Zion and Bryce National Parks to explore the human connection to nature and land, and to reflect on the tensions between spirituality and civilization, service and excess. Posted March 31, 2011
Maorr Z.
Class of 2014  When I woke up on Monday morning, I realized that the day that I had been waiting for all year had finally arrived; the day that I get to experience my first JCHS Journey with the Class of 2014. While waiting for the bus to pick us up from JCHS, I noticed that people were still in their same usual groups that I see them in every day. I thought to myself, "Why don't we mix this up a bit?" I walked over to where our bags were and started playing my guitar. Immediately my classmates began to flock over, and soon enough, all these groups who had previously been mingling on their own were coming together and singing along with me. It was a very powerful moment seeing that we all had this in common, and the trip had hardly begun!
After the bus ride down to Brandeis Bardin Institute in Los Angeles, we went straight to dinner, ate with our friends, and went to our cabins for bed. The next morning after waking up we learned that we would be doing a ropes course, an  activity I was especially excited for. We walked through two freezing cold streams of water and a horse-stable, and finally made it to the Alpine Tower- a combination of rock-walls, ladders, and various other climbing apparatuses. After cheering on all my of my fellow classmates, it was turn on the tower. As I started to climb, I thought back on my previous experiences with rock-walls (and let’s just say there weren't the best). I reached the middle of the tower, and felt compelled to descend. As the thoughts went through my head, I heard my peers calling out to, telling me I could do it. I knew right away that with their support, I could make it to the top. Once I reached the top, I looked down at everyone and thought that if they could help me to reach the top here, then we can all help each other reach the top of anything and everything. Going on this Journey has driven home a fact that I already knew- my class is the best group of people that I could ask for, and I trust and respect every single one of them more than the next. Freshmen Journey Toward Community and Identity
Southern California
March 21- 25, 2011
JCHS students traveled to a retreat center outside of Los Angeles to explore their own grade identity, to foster bonds and grade morale, and to explore issues and tensions that are normal parts of building and sustaining communities. Posted March 31, 2011
Ethan H.
Class of 2011  Everyone at JCHS is really looking forward to our winter comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde. We have an incredible director, an outstanding cast, and the play itself is the pinnacle of the English language. The characters speak with a certain quality of wit and sophistication. Unlike some of our previous comedies, The Importance of Being Earnest is a comedy of errors. While the characters may seem rigid and set in their ways, much of the Victorian humor is drawn from a juxtaposition of restrictive social expectations and the subversive actions these characters take to undermine these restrictions. Subtle actions, such as the way a character may cross their legs or use a fan, when taken to the logical extreme are actually very funny.
 Comedic acting is definitely my strength. It is easier for me than dramatic acting, and I’m a big fan of comedies in general. I like to think of myself as a funny individual off the stage, but in a different kind of way. Crafting a character in a comedy takes more work than crafting characters in dramatic productions, but the character choices I’ve made in The Importance of Being Earnest have been very fluid and natural. I’ve really enjoyed creating a character that is both funny and sophisticated, and I think audiences will really enjoy the characters in this play.
The theatre program here at JCHS is truly incredible. When I was applying to high schools, I didn’t have theatre in mind when I looked at JCHS. However, as a freshman, I gave it a try and it ended up being a great experience! When I first started as a student here, the theater had just been built, and I think we’ve done a fantastic job putting it to use with some great productions through these years. Our director Ms. Russell is amazing; we really couldn’t have a better director. I am sure that I will benefit in the future from having such an amazing director in high school. She pulls off every show with tremendous poise and style, and she is a valued member of our community. I hope I can continue to pursue acting in the future after I graduate from JCHS this spring. I am very interested in show business, and I would certainly go so far as to say that I would like to make it part of my life. My plans beyond college aren’t too clear, but I hope that comedy can be a big part of my future. I really hope everyone in the JCHS community comes out to see our shows. We have a great theatre department that is getting better every year, so I hope everyone can out and support us! Posted February 10, 2011
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Perri D.
Class of 2013  Without a doubt, being a part of the JCHS hip-hop dance team has been one of the highlights of my time in high school. I really enjoy having the opportunity to dance with my fellow students and help establish a strong dance program here at JCHS. I have been dancing since the first grade, but I only began doing hip-hop dance four years ago when I joined a competitive hip-hop dance squad called “Divine” that competed against other local dance teams. Dance (especially hip-hop dance) is not easy, and you really have to be born with a certain feel for it. You have to be able to understand the choreography and make it look good at the same time. One thing that I really love about the JCHS dance team is that we can add our own style and flair to what we do!
Our team has a fantastic coach who provides us with many opportunities for success. She does an excellent job working with us to make sure we learn the choreography and to make sure we are the best dancers we can be. Another benefit of being a part of the dance team is the great friendships that come out of working so closely with your classmates in a non-academic setting. Being part of a team like this is a unique and special opportunity that you definitely wouldn’t be able to have at other high schools. If I were to name a high point for my time on the dance team, it would definitely be the moments right before our performances when the excitement and anticipation are palpable and the crowd is cheering for your dance to begin. I also really love the times when our team gets together at lunch to go over our dances, and of course, performing at the halftime show of a Warriors game last year was absolutely one of the best experiences I have ever had. I hope that we will be able to have more great shows in the future. Being part of the dance team is really a fantastic opportunity, and I encourage other students to not be afraid and give it a try! We have dancers of all skill levels and it is a fantastic way to meet students from all grade levels. It’s an absolute blast and I look forward to practice every day! Posted January 17, 2011
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Evan F.
Class of 2014 As an eighth grader at Marin Brandeis last year, I had a great opportunity to come to San Francisco one weekend and attend a basketball clinic with my teammates and members of the JCHS Basketball team. I didn’t have a lot of experience playing basketball prior to this, or really an interest in sports- I had joined the team on a whim after making a 3-pointer!  Participating in the clinic last year definitely helped me with my rebounding and passing skills. That is why I was so excited when Coach Kjar came to the team and asked if anyone was interested in helping with this year’s clinic.
On Sunday December 12, I went with Coach Kjar and three of my teammates to the Buchannan Street YMCA where we met up with basketball teams from my alma mater- Marin Brandeis, and Oakland Hebrew Day School. My teammates and I helped lead various warm-ups like sprinting, grapevine, and skipping- standing in front as examples in case the younger players got confused. After this, all the players rotated between stations that taught them different skills. I was “coaching” the rebounding station with Coach Tobarez from Marin Brandeis and Jonathan, one of my teammates. Getting the chance to give back at this event after learning so much last year was great! I also really enjoyed seeing my friends from middle school, as well as my old coach, and showing them all the skills I had learned in the short time since this season began. I even picked up a few new tips myself that day! Hopefully the middle schoolers at the basketball clinic were able to learn a bit from us on Sunday, and maybe some of them will even be on our team next year! Posted November 29, 2010
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Sharon A.
Class of 2013  This year at school, my sophomore year, I am taking a number of really great classes. I am in Talmud I Advanced, Tanach II Advanced, Introduction to Studio Art, Chemistry Advanced, Hebrew Literature and Culture, English 10, and Algebra II Advanced. In addition to these classes though, I am also a member of the varsity volleyball team.
 I am an outside hitter, meaning that I play on the left side of the court. Last year when I was a freshman, our team fought had for our playoff position and ended the season on a good note, becoming the first JCHS volleyball team to make it to the playoffs. This year, we have grown as a team, and we are a cohesive and skilled group: we know how to play and we know how to win. After much practice, skill development, and overall improvement, we had an amazing season, undefeated in our league, and sailed straight to playoffs.
One of my favorite memories of this season is of going out to dinner with the team after defeating Kehillah 3-0 in the annual Kiddush Cup tournament. We had so much fun bonding during dinner while eating family-style from a multitude of delicious Chinese dishes. Everyone still had so much energy from the excitement of winning the game! Our team has been not only a winning machine but also a support system. We motivate each other to be the best we can be on and off the court. After two seasons, our team has not only become more skilled, but has also grown closer. We have developed strong friendship, and this, in turn, has made us a better team. Posted November 22, 2010
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Alex B.
Class of 2012  The JCHS drama department is one of the many amazing opportunities our school has to offer. As a freshman, I came into JCHS as a shy, quiet girl without a place. I decided I wanted to take an elective, and since I can barely draw stick figures, I went with Theater Lab—Ms. Russell’s “intro to acting” class. I walked in on the first day, horrified—I was the only freshman AND the only girl in a group of seven other sophomore, junior, and senior guys. At first, I didn’t know how to react, but I crept into class, and I ended up loving it. In my class, I learned various acting methods and techniques, but I also discovered new ways to express myself and something I’m now really passionate about.
 This year, I am a part of the fall musical, The Sound of Music—a classic Rodgers and Hammerstein. I play Sister Margaretta, the mistress of the postulants who is kind of a softy. Through this experience, I’ve learned much more than acting like a nun. Not only have I improved my singing capabilities, but I have also learned how to step outside of my comfort zone and set myself up for new opportunities. When you are in a production with 30+ cast and crew members, you have the chance to work with many different people who all have something to offer. You learn new acting skills and styles, while also learning how to truly be a team player. Putting on any production takes a lot of time and effort, so it is essential that everyone works together and does their very best.
Personally, being in a play at JCHS is not only about putting on an amazing show in the end, it’s about the process. The performance is what is seen in the end, but what isn’t seen is everything that happens over the course of rehearsal. One of my favorite parts of being in the cast is making new friends. Working with people with the same interests as you is great in so many ways. The members of the cast and crew help create a fun,  comfortable environment that leads to growth in your character and yourself. I have been able to bond with people in other grades, some of whom I never would have talked to if we weren’t put together. And working for so many hours, we end up making jokes and just having a good time, which creates a positive energy, and more importantly we get to know how the other cast members contribute, which adds to the overall environment. We get to see everyone in their element, all natural and free, which I think is really meaningful. It is an amazing feeling to grow so close to your fellow actors, watch them grow, and then see everyone come together for the final product—to see that it really pays off. Being in a play is a team effort, and by the end, we’re not just a team, we’re a family. Joining the JCHS drama department completely changed my high school experience. As a member of the cast, I have the opportunity to grow as an actress and as a person by learning from my peers and director. I have been able to explore my love for performing in ways I never thought I could, in addition to making new friends along the way. I am so thankful for the incredible opportunities that JCHS has provided me, and the many things I have learned from the experience. Posted November 16, 2010
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Neena C.
Class of 2013  Color War, the final day of Spirit Week, is a day I look forward to the entire year. After countless hours of hard work and preparation, finally all of our grade’s excitement and dedication pays off when we all gather together in the commons and perform in front of the whole JCHS community. Each class is given about 10 minutes to entertain the school with a song or dance, or combination of the two, which shows off their grade’s spirit.
 This year my class, the class of 2013 won Color War! As co-rosh (president) of the grade, it was my responsibility to organize this presentation, but the most satisfying part was not winning: it was seeing the whole grade come together supporting one another and having fun. The satisfaction came from our team’s effort and knowing that each classmate played a part in our success.
After this day of excitement, we went home and rested up so that we were ready for our adventures at Walker Creek Ranch. Walker Creek Ranch is where we enjoy our annual school-wide Shabbaton. The Shabbaton is an amazing experience for everyone; it is a time when you can connect with your peers in a completely different way. On the Shabbaton we have an amazing 48 hours to reconnect with old friends and create many new friendships in a relaxed and worry-free environment. We can breathe fresh air, take long walks, and enjoy the rustic surroundings.  This year a new aspect of the Shabbaton was the introduction of “tribes.” Each student was a part of a 7-10 person mixed-grade tribe that met once before the Shabbaton, and daily over that weekend. During these tribe meetings, we had time to reflect on our experiences and do some bonding activities. In my tribe, we went beyond the prompts that had been provided for us and had real, meaningful conversations. The tribes gave me the opportunity to become friends with people I had never talked to and spend some quality time with them on the Shabbaton. I am looking forward to continuing to build on these new friendships throughout the rest of the year.
Posted November 10, 2010
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A conversation with Boris S.
Class of 2013  JCHS: Hi Boris! It looks like sophomore year is off to a great start! What have you been up to so far?
Boris: I have been really excited about Chemistry this year–all the formulas and hands-on labs intrigue me. At the Club Fair where students can join a number of different student-run clubs, I signed up for both Yearbook and Social Club. They are both a big part of my agenda.  JCHS: Social club sounds like a lot of fun! What sorts of things have you been planning?
Boris: We have been doing a lot to get ready for the Shabbaton, which is a three-day retreat for the whole school to Walker Creek Ranch in Petaluma at the end of October. One specific part I have been working on is helping to plan the dance that will take place on Saturday night. JCHS: Sounds great! It seems like JCHS is able to have a good mixture of fun and focused academics. Can you tell us a little about what you are working on in your classes? Boris: In my Talmud class, for Sukkot we were assigned to create an edible Sukkah. It was interesting to think about the different components I wanted my Sukkah to have, and also delicious! In Chemistry, we are mixing chemicals to test our predictions about whether or not they can dissolve, turn into solids, etc. JCHS: Very exciting stuff, Boris! Good luck with your predictions–we’ll let you get back to that! Posted October 28, 2010
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Interview With Sophia W.
Class of 2011  Q: As a senior at JCHS, and someone who is very involved with the community in many different ways, has it been a challenge to adjust to the academic rigors of being a senior?
A: Yes, it has been a bit of a challenge, but it has also been fun and rewarding. This year I am taking exciting classes like AP Art History and Jewish Thought that give me the opportunity to explore subjects I love that are fascinating and enlightening. For example, I really enjoy learning about the concepts of ‘sin’ and ‘evil’ with Dr. Sandel. I have the opportunity to choose classes I am interested in, and I love that I can learn for the sake of learning and have fun with the classes I am taking. Q: Aside from being a dedicated student, you are also an accomplished actor. Can you tell me a bit about your involvement with JCHS’ fall production, The Sound of Music? A: Being a part of The Sound of Music is definitely one of the highlights of my year. I really enjoy having the opportunity work with such a skilled student cast and crew, and I especially enjoy working with the freshmen involved in the play. It’s some serious stage experience and I always enjoy learning more about theatre and performing. I know we are all looking forward to our shows in November. Q: How are things going with your role in Knesset student government and being a student leader at JCHS? A: My involvement with the Knesset is especially exciting because my position is new this year. As the Communications Executive I run the Hakhel (our weekly student assembly), as well as publicize students events. I really enjoy being the leader of Hakhel because it gives me the opportunity to inspire other students and have fun with our community. Q: Perhaps the most exciting and rewarding program with which you are involved is the Be Bold, Be Bald campaign to raise money for the fight against cancer. Can you tell me more about this?” A: Be Bold, Be Bald is a campaign where participants will go bald for a day on October 22 to raise money for the fight against cancer. In two strong weeks I have already recruited 20 team-members and over $2,000.00 for this campaign. I encourage everyone in our community to get involved and help raise awareness of the fight against cancer.” Q: Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with us and good luck with the rest of your senior year. A: My pleasure! I look forward to the challenges in the weeks and months ahead. Posted October 20, 2010
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Renee M.
Class of 2013  One of the many great opportunities that JCHS offers is the chance to be part of the amazing drama department. This year’s fall musical was Little Shop of Horrors where I was backstage on the technical crew. This experience opened my eyes to the hard work putting on a play entails. Fellow tech folks and I worked for an uncountable amount of hours hanging lights, painting the set, helping with costumes, being on-book and making sure that the actors would be and could be their very best. Those jobs may not seem fun, but they are and there are also many upsides. Not only do you get a very fashionable tech shirt or feel super hi-tech and wear a headset that allows you to talk to people who are all the way across the theater, but you also get to be part of something bigger and put on a show that hundreds of people enjoy.
 Enough about the past, let’s talk about now. This winter we are putting on the play The Government Inspector – a comedy for those who don't know. This play is absolutely hilarious! I have the honor of portraying a postmaster who isn't too clear on the concept of privacy. Through this experience, I have learned much more than just how to walk like a boy. I have also learned how to step outside myself and be committed to being a different person, do things that may feel uncomfortable, and open myself up for new opportunities. But all of this couldn't have happened without the help of a lot of different people. All of my fellow actors, most who have way more experience than I do, help to create an environment that is fun and safe, which leads to a place that is comfortable to grow in. They also are just fun people to be around, which helps once late rehearsals start and you find yourself getting home at 8:30 p.m. and later. It helps when the people you are with are people with the same interests and who help you become a better actor.
 Not only my peers, but Ms. Russell, the director (and chair of the visual and performing arts department), is there for me, and everyone, one hundred percent of the time. She helps to make you stronger in places you aren't so familiar with and highlights the good in everyone. She also puts her faith in us, and there really isn't a better feeling than when someone you look up to and respect shows you that you matter and are trusted.
When I walked into this experience, I thought it was just going to be fun, and like other school plays I had done in the past. Looking at it now, I have a very different opinion of what I want from this experience. Not only do I want to keep the friendships that I have made, but also continue on my path to becoming a better actress with the support of fellows actors and, of course, Ms. Russell. Posted February 11, 2010
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Grant F.
Class of 2012  Coming into this year's basketball season, I was unsure how our team would perform. Three great players graduated last year, so we lost three great leaders. I knew the team would be filled with talent, and we’ve received outstanding coaching from Coach Kjar and Coach Stu, but still I wasn't sure how we would gel as a squad. After a disappointing loss in our first game, the team came to realize that pregame hype and individual stats did not matter if we did not win. This new inspiration led to a better work ethic, on and off the court. Players work hard to get better and everyone pushes each other to do their best. Halfway through the season, we are 6-2 and won 6 of our last 7 games! We have a long way to go, but it looks as if we have a good chance to meet our expectations and finish off a great season.
 Personally, being on the team is not just about winning or losing games. The team’s record is just what can be seen in the standings, but what can’t be seen is the hard work the team puts in during practice. One aspect of this year’s team that has been really special to me is our team chemistry. Guys are making jokes, having a good time, creating positive energy, but most importantly we know how the other guys on the team play, which really helps the overall team environment.
As a member of this year’s team, I see a great opportunity for me to grow as a player and as a person by taking on leaderships roles, helping set and hopefully reach our goals. As the season continues, I understand it will be difficult at times, but now I know I have a team of friends to rely on. Posted January 13, 2010
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David E.
Class of 2012  As I stepped off the plane at Dulles International Airport for the AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) conference in Washington DC, I did not realize how my life would change. Our group got into the shiny black Cadillac escalade waiting for us on the curve, and started our adventure. We checked into the Grand Hyatt hotel on the corner of H and 11 in the heart of the city. Because we took a “red-eye” flight from Oakland, we had plenty of time before the conference officially beganand decided to go to the National Mall to see the sights. We walked to the Washington Monument and saw the flags flying half-mast in memory of those who fell at Fort Hood.
 We toured the National Mall and went back to the hotel for registration. We changed into our “business casual” clothes and went to the orientation led by the wonderful AIPAC staff. We woke up the next morning at 7:00 am, which was much too early for our “jet-lagged” delegation. We sluggishly dragged ourselves out of our comfortable rooms and down the stairs. Yawning, I thought to myself how I should really be in bed right now, not off listening to lectures. How very wrong I was! The classes, taught by members of the AIPAC staff were interesting and inspiring. They were approachable and their love for the cause radiated. They taught about the history of the American-Israel alliance and why it was so important, but most importantly they taught me how to step up in my community.
The day I got home, I e-mailed Barbara Lee, my local congressional representative, thanking her for her continued support of Israel. AIPAC taught me how to be a better leader and person, how to stand up for what I believe in and to get people active in the community. Posted November 30, 2009
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Zoe F. and Maddy Z.
Class of 2011  Maddy: Hey Zo’. What’s up?
Zoe: Hey Maddy. Not too much. I’ve been pretty busy working on my Shabbaton spread for yearbook. Maddy: I’ve also had a lot of work for yearbook as the Head of Photography. It’s been a great managing all the yearbook photographers and making sure that our events are covered. We have some great photos from the all-school Shabbaton this year. Zoe: Yeah. The photographers this year have a great eye. What are you up to today? Maddy: I’m off to the Delancey Street Foundation to work in the café for a few hours. After we saw the Delancey Street resident speak at community block, I was feeling inspired to help out. I heard we are the first teen group to ever regularly volunteer there! Anything else interesting going on?  Zoe: Just working hard in all my classes to prepare for the end of the quarter. I can’t believe we are going to Israel in just a couple months.
Maddy: I am so excited! The grade journeys are always amazing. Camping freshman year, and then going to Vegas, the Grand Canyon, and meeting the Hualapai Native American tribe sophomore year were both incredible class journeys. Zoe: Those trips were awesome. Hey, are you pumped for girl’s soccer in the spring? Maddy: Yeah! Mr. Carter is a great coach; he lets the team enjoy the game and have fun, and works to improve our skills. Zoe: Well I’m off to Village Project club meeting! Tutoring the elementary and middle-school students living in the neighborhood around JCHS has been a cool experience. Meeting with them every Monday and Wednesday really gives us a chance to get to know the kids. Maddy: Cool! I’ll see you tomorrow morning in math class. Posted November 4, 2009
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Emily U.
Class of 2010
 JCHS: Emily, as a student leader, what are some of the JCHS activities that are keeping you on your toes?
Emily: At JCHS, I’ve been involved in starting the girls soccer club with a close friend, R.A.I.S.E. which is “Raising Awareness in Schools Everywhere” about peer pressure and anti-drug awareness, teaching swim lessons outside of school, any many academic programs: my senior Keystone project, AP Biology, AP Environmental Studies, and more. I also recently began my first year on Knesset (student government) as the student activities executive. JCHS: Tell us about your roles and jobs as the student activities exec, sounds fun. Emily: I manage and oversee the student clubs at JCHS, and I act as a liaison between the club members and their faculty advisors. I concern myself with making sure that old clubs maintain their momentum and continue to be strong clubs, and I also support the creation of new clubs. I’m the head of the Social Club, which helps to plan school dances and events at the All-School Shabbaton. JCHS: It seems like you put a lot of work into your role as a leader. What are you most proud of, and what are some of your accomplishments so far this year? Emily: Spirit week is planned now and will be really exciting. I helped to plan it from scratch, like events such as the specific spirit days, the lunch events each day, games, and “Color Games”, which is the color competitions between grades. Another project that I got to see from conception to completion is the Club Fair, which allowed 18 clubs and 9 va’ads (service-focused clubs) to exist this year. JCHS: You’ve done so much at JCHS in a few short years. You were a transfer to JCHS your sophomore year. How was the transition to JCHS? Emily: Before JCHS, I was never involved in school leadership or even any Jewish learning. The chance to get involved and ask questions at JCHS was so easy to do. I became very comfortable, and enjoyed the academic challenge. Right away, I got engaged in the classroom and asking lots of questions was encouraged. I feel that my growth as a student here at JCHS has prepared me well for college. JCHS: What are you looking forward to during the rest of the year? Emily: I’m really looking forward to seeing how my Senior Keystone project turns out. My Keystone’s working title is “Coming of age: Rituals between religions.” Part of my family comes from a Mormon background, and part of my family is Jewish. My Keystone is a comparison of the coming-of-age rituals of different religions and the impact they have on in the individual. JCHS: What are you interested in doing after high school? Emily: I’m deep in the application process for college. I’m applying to five or six universities, ones that have excellent international relations and study abroad programs. I have a deep interest in studying abroad; maybe in Latin America for a semester or summer, and DEFINITELY in Greece or Italy for a semester. Posted October 14, 2009
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Noah G.
Class of 2011  I came to JCHS as a freshman having no idea what to expect. During my class’ freshman retreat (the first of many bonding experiences) I saw an 8.5 x 11 piece of paper hanging in the student commons. It read, “Want to be on tech crew? See Mr. Duarte.”
During the first week of school, I decided to join the theater tech crew. This decision would have a greater effect on my high school career than any other decisions I have made. For me, JCHS would become a place of learning both inside and outside of the conventional classroom setting. As part of the team responsible for all technical/special effects for the three amazing drama productions per year, I started out as a backstage hand. Coming in knowing absolutely nothing about the technical side of theater, I would have to learn how to do everything from hanging Source 4 Junior lights, to operating the 16-channel sound mixer. But there was one truly remarkable thing about this experience besides opening up potential careers--I was taught not only by the faculty member in charge of the tech crew, but also by my peers on the crew. After a mere two years, I have risen to the role of stage manager for many of our plays. As stage manager, I am responsible for everything from coordinating the timing of technical effects to sorting out crises in the middle of the shows. My duties are not limited to the plays. I now, along with one other student, am the “tech guru” of our weekly assemblies. The two of us do everything from hooking up the A/V systems to a full repertoire of lighting techniques for our two all-school gatherings per week. Joining the theater tech crew completely changed my high school experience. I have been able to explore my passion for technology in ways I never had even hoped. In addition to satisfying my craving for technology, I also have made many friends through being on the crew. I am extremely thankful for the amazing opportunities that JCHS has provided me, and the wide variety of skills I have learned. Posted October 1, 2009
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Jacob C.
Class of 2011  Summer... a time of relaxation, taking it easy and counting down the days to get back into soccer season at the beginning of the school year. This summer, however, was different. I had a full schedule of camping in northern California, watching Shakespearean plays in Ashland, taking a math course at a local college, heading out to the east coast to see family, and much much more.
My full schedule was not a surprise though. Near the end of the last school year, while staying committed to other activities I undergo year-round, I immersed myself in a collection of new and exciting activities. For instance, I became a member of BBYO (the B’nai Brith Youth Organization), which connects me with other Jewish teens in my area, as well as around the world; I joined the Diller Teen Fellowship: a year long program for juniors focused on leadership, community service and our personal connection to Israel; and thirdly, I signed up for the JCC Maccabi games, where I played soccer with and socialized with Jewish teens from all around the country. To say the least, I was not bored. I’d wake up no later than I do during the school year, go to ‘college’ for math, head over to Temple Beth Abraham for a BBYO board meeting, and then head out to San Francisco for soccer practice.
Surprisingly, and not so surprisingly, I enjoyed this summer just as much, if not more, than previous summers. In addition to the significance of keeping busy and staying in touch with friends, this summer was a perfect segue to the school year ahead of me. I have just begun my junior year, and, to no surprise, I am not bored. I have my AP and Honors classes, combined with soccer as well as being a proud JCHS Student Ambassador. To say the least, I’m lovin’ it.
It is quite clear to me that this summer was the perfect transition from my underclassman years of “following the leaders”, to becoming a junior, where I start making decisions and paving my own path. Whether it be in sports, academics, or hobbies I am pleased to say that those around me such as parents, teachers, coaches and mentors have given me a sturdy path for which I can begin to lead my own way. As one can see, this route of mine is busy and full of surprises... and with senior year just around the corner, this path looks more exciting every day. This is just the beginning!
From a proud JCHS wolf. Posted September 8, 2009
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Elijah J.
Class of 2012  La Habana. We arrived there early in the morning and hit the bed. All odds aside I pushed myself out of bed at 8:00 am and took a jog to La Maletone, which is the walkway to runs for kilometers along the ocean. I was greeted with humidity and the stench of sweat when I stepped out of our Casa Particulare. I explored by jogging around for a while and when my water bottle ran dry and I began feeling light headed I quickly ran back to the Casa, where I was greeted with a breakfast of exotic fruit, eggs and toast.
My mom had arranged a meeting with a woman named Ana and her son David. They were a Jewish family whose father and husband had died when David was very young. At first it was a little awkward just sitting there and trying to find a common interest to talk about in our limited Spanish and their very limited English but as time went on we were able to communicate better and actually have an interesting conversation. It was implied that they were very poor, Ana only had limited internet access at her work and David’s eyes grew big as I showed him my iPod Touch. David had a bar mitzvah in the main synagogue in Habana. We also learned that David is trying extremely hard to learn enough English for the opportunity he could receive to go to Israel through Birth Right when he is 18. Overall it was a fascinating experience meeting these Cuban Jews and I hope to keep in touch with them. Another major experience I had was bringing used sports equipment to Cuba. We would periodically hand out an old baseball mitt or hat to a child on the street who was always thrilled to receive it. Baseball is very popular in Cuba! One may be wondering where this equipment came from? Many friends and family as well as members of the JCHS community (including coach Kjar who generously gave the old soccer and volleyball uniforms to me) contributed used sports equipment to the cause. This made me feel like I had a strong and caring community back at home as well as at JCHS. Posted September 2, 2009
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Michal E.
Class of 2010  This past summer was filled with new experiences for me. It was the first summer that I did not spend at a Jewish camp or program, and naturally I approached it with some nervous trepidation. My plan was to spend three weeks at a summer program at Yale University, in New Haven Connecticut, and then spend the final month of summer interning at a Communications Firm in Oakland, California. Thus, as the final day of school came and went I was consumed by a combination of nerves and excitement. I flew out to New Haven not really knowing what to expect, would the classes be interesting, the kids fun, the counselors nice? And most pressing of all- would I be the only Jew expected to retain my religious practices by myself, far from home?
I arrived at Yale University on the first day and registered along with the other 700 kids in the program. Very quickly (judging based on the many different languages I heard just in passing) I realized that the program was not just for Americans. This was reaffirmed when I found out that almost half of the program was International kids from all corners of the Earth. My first three questions were answered within hours on that first day- from the moment I walked into my classes I knew they would be interesting and exciting. We met with our dorm living group (those on the floors around us in the dorm building) along with our Resident Advisors, and it was obvious that I was sitting among a great group of people; each person had something different to bring to the group.
I was surprised when I realize how prepared I was for this moment. The moment when I explain to everyone that I’m “super Jewish” and that’s why I won’t be going on Saturday trips or eating some of the same food as them. I realized that JCHS had prepared me for this. Yes it was a year earlier than expected; I don’t go to college until next year. But I knew that because of the sense of diversity within the JCHS community and the safe place it creates to talk about our differences, I was able to preserve my Judaism and everything that came along with it, even when surrounded by non-Jews. And as I took a deep breath and explained my Judaism, at least 5 or 6 other people said, “Hey I’m Jewish too” and we all knew that we had established an unbreakable bond between us. Because as Jews we shared a connection that no one else could feel, but that we knew was stronger than anything else. Because of my name (Michal- hard to get more Jewish!), just introducing myself helped me meet fellow Jews who recognized that it came from Hebrew. I met Gabbi from Mexico, Elissa and Julie from France, Alyssa and Talya from New York, and many others. But I didn’t just meet Jews, I met lots of people from all different religions, different countries, different states. I know that without the sense of community we have in JCHS, without the excellent teachers, and incredible students, I would not have been able to explain my Judaism in front of a group of people that I didn’t know with such confidence.
Now, as summer comes to a close, I grow more excited with the day to return to school as a senior (not the homework part of course)! I now know that JCHS has given me the skills that I will need when I head out into the real world. Whether it’s the ability to be proud of my Judaism and to practice it far away from home, or the ability to keep up in a fast-paced communications firm, I know that I am set for college and beyond. I am excited to meet all the new freshman at the Community Kick-off, and to see many of my friends and teachers that I haven’t seen all summer. I am excited to be a senior at JCHS! Go 2010!
Posted September 1, 2009
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Ben R.
Class of 2011  I came to JCHS at the beginning of sophomore year after not feeling challenged enough at a public school. At first I didn’t know what to expect, but as the year progressed I was mentored and taught by the great faculty at the school and gained some important life skills. Turning things in on time, organization, hard work, and so many more skills were sketched into my brain after just one year at JCHS.
For the first three weeks of the summer of 2009, I served as a Congressional Page in Washington DC. Every morning I would get suited up for work and make my way over to the Library of Congress for a morning lecture. Afterwards, I would walk to the Capital where I would spend the day running errands, raising flags, and ringing bells. The job took a large amount of determination and mental strength. After a few days of very hard work I was selected to be one of four Documentarians (the most sought-after Page job available.) This was such a great honor because every other morning I would raise and lower the American flag on top of the capital itself.
I later wondered what drove me to work so hard in the first place. I later realized that JCHS had prepared me so well for meeting deadlines and fulfilling responsibilities that I never learned in public school. I am glad that I made the choice to transfer to the Jewish Community High School of the Bay.
Posted September 1, 2009
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