Dear Sinai Families,
Time and again, Sinai Academy visitors have remarked
to me: “I noticed something unique about this school as
soon as I walked through the door. There’s something
about the atmosphere here….” We who work and learn at
Sinai Academy agree. To what do we attribute the special
qualities one senses at our school? We have a
professional and inspiring faculty. Our devoted
volunteers – Board members, students’ and alumni’s
families, and community-minded individuals – are second
to none. The Berkshires provide us a magnificent
classroom: we take advantage of many educational and
cultural opportunities that the area provides. Certainly
these contribute to our distinct environment. I gladly
share with you, though, my personal opinion. What makes
the building hum, the walls sing, and the very air seem
to sparkle? It is – what else? – the children!
Sinai
Academy students have hailed from every corner of
Berkshire County, as well as from the neighboring
counties of New York and Vermont. Families come from
several countries, including the United States, Israel,
and Russia. Parents are teachers, mechanics, business
people, physicians, homemakers, and attorneys. Our
children’s families come from every walk of Judaism;
they are involved across the political spectrum. We’re
proud of our diversity, in part because it provides the
backdrop for who and what we are: a community day
school, welcoming and inclusive.
Naturally, we at Sinai
hold education in the highest regard. We know that
varied experiences in Math, Hebrew, Music, Language
Arts, Science, Physical Education, Judaic Studies,
Dance, and Social Studies give our students the
background they need to be successful in their
continuing education and eventual careers. We also know
that varied interactions with others, both within the
Jewish community and the community-at-large, provide the
foundation our children require to become compassionate
human beings and involved citizens of the world.
As our
logo states, we share a vision of “nurturing the future
– one child at a time.” This cannot happen in a vacuum
or by chance. Each individual connected with Sinai
Academy leaves a lasting imprint. Every person counts.
Every act of tzedakah makes a statement about the people
we want to be; every small step toward tikkun olam
proves that everyone –child and adult -- can make a
difference. I invite you to learn more about our
wonderful school through this website and by calling to
make an appointment to visit us. Come experience the
excitement, the joy, and the warmth that many others
find so remarkable. I believe you will be inspired to
become involved and tell others about the very special
place that is Sinai Academy!
B’Shalom,
Chris Barash
Head of School
