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Shalhevet High School End-of-Year Report 2025-26 | 5786
Deep Commitment to Torah and Israel
Endof-Year Report
2025-26 | 5786 Critical Thinking and Academic Inquiry
Transformative
Personal Growth
Empathetic Dialogue and Discourse
Mission
To prepare our students to lead meaningful, confident, and thoughtful Modern Orthodox lives by empowering them to discover their passions, grow as individuals, and contribute to our community and the world.
Since its founding in 1992 by Dr. Jerry Friedman, Shalhevet High School has revolutionized the Jewish education landscape through an innovative educational model that enables transformative personal growth. Guided by values such as critical and creative thinking, empathetic dialogue and discourse, and overall happiness and wellbeing, Shalhevet has graduated thousands of students who have gone on to the finest universities in the world as well as the top yeshivot, seminaries, and study programs in Israel. Today, Shalhevet leads the way in preparing its students to live meaningful, confident, and thoughtful Modern Orthodox lives — committed to Torah values, guided by halacha, and infused with spirituality — by empowering them to discover their passions, grow as individuals, and contribute to our community and the world at large.
Active Engagement in
Our Community and Beyond Shalhevet Stands with Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael
Wellness, Joy, and Self-Actualization
As Israel and the Jewish People face rising hostility, Shalhevet integrated advocacy, tefila, and support for Israel into all aspects of school life. Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael remain at the fore of our minds and lives.
Summer 2026 | Aviv 5786
Dear Friends,
Every year, I sit down to write this letter and find myself searching for words equal to the year our students have lived. This year, that search led somewhere I did not expect: to hope. After so long carrying the weight of war and worry for our brothers and sisters in Israel, we witnessed hostages come home — and we felt, alongside the ache that remains, the first real breath of relief in a long time. I have always believed that a school is more than the sum of its classes. In a Jewish world still steadying itself, Shalhevet is a place where our children are taught not what to think, but how to live as thoughtful and proud Modern Orthodox Jews. That work has never felt more urgent to me, and I have never been prouder of how our students, faculty, and staff have risen to it. You will see that work in every section of this report. Our Deep Commitment to Torah and Israel filled the building — from a school-wide siyum and a beit midrash that never emptied, to the unforgettable afternoon we welcomed home former hostage Bar Kupershtein. Through Critical Thinking and Academic Inquiry, our students learned to wield new tools wisely, taking on artificial intelligence with values. Transformative Personal Growth happened on our seniors’ Poland-Israel Experience, where five of them completed a siyum in the beit midrash of Chachmei Lublin, and on the court, where our teams reached heights this school has never before touched. Empathetic Dialogue and Discourse lived in our weekly Town Hall, while Active
Engagement in Our Community and Beyond carried our students into hospitals, senior homes, and chesed of every kind. And underneath it all was the Wellness, Joy, and SelfActualization that makes this place what it is — the ruach of a Color War, the warmth of a Shabbaton, the simple joy of students who are glad to be exactly where they are. Like every year, this report ends with our seniors, our graduates who give us hope in the future of the Jewish People. Over 85% will be in Israel next year, and afterward, they’ll move on to exceptional institutions. We are endlessly proud of who they are and who they will become as advocates for Torah, Am Yisrael, and Medinat Yisrael — even in the darkest of places. This report is far from comprehensive, but you can think of it as a snapshot of this year, of how Shalhevet students are doing their part to aid our community and our people.
Rabbi David Block Head of School
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Highlight Rewind
from Mid-Year Report Transformative
Personal Growth
» The Girls Varsity Basketball Team captured
the Burroughs Tournament with three straight wins.
» Robotics Team 6000 competed in two
tournaments and Shabbatonim in a season of focus, collaboration, and innovation.
» Shalhevet marked September 11 with a
moment of silence, a special memorial gathering, and spaces for reflection.
Deep Commitment to Torah and Israel
» The new Masmidim program transformed every flex period into an active beit midrash with chaburot in both Gemara and Chumash.
» Shalhevet welcomed a new Sephardic Sefer Torah
and Heichal, donated by Hamid and Mona RashidiDoust in honor of their son Nehorai ‘28.
» A special assembly marked the release of the
hostages while remembering October 7, with words of reflection, communal tefila, and a closing d’var Torah.
Critical Thinking and Academic Inquiry
» Award-winning NBA writer Yaron Weitzman spoke
with students about breaking into sports journalism while remaining grounded as an observant Jew.
» Honors Anatomy and Physiology students closed the first semester with a lesson in suturing and mass removal.
» Art History and Eurasian History students studied Renaissance and Impressionist works up close at the Getty.
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SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
Empathetic Dialogue and Discourse
» Town Hall tackled sensitive subjects, including alcohol, gambling, and addiction, moral dilemmas in bioethics, and processing the Bondi massacre.
» Mock Trial’s Prosecution Team earned a guilty verdict in the first round of the LA County competition.
» Following Election Day, two Shalhevet juniors organized a voter pre-registration drive with faculty advisor Mr. Forrester.
Active Engagement in Our Community and Beyond
» The annual Trustee Dinner raised over
$900,000 to ensure every student has access to a Shalhevet education, regardless of financial need.
» Sophomores and juniors opened their gradewide Shabbatonim with chesed across LA.
» In partnership with Yachad LA and The
Paintery, we hosted an inclusive night of creativity and connection.
Wellness, Joy, and Self-Actualization
» The Schoolwide Shabbaton explored the power of words and intention in tefila.
» Chanukah Week overflowed with musical Hallel, a high-energy chagigah, and daily letter-writing for the Aerin Project.
» Freshmen and seniors lived this year’s theme of mesorah together at the Freshman-Senior Shabbaton at Brandeis-Bardin.
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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Former Hostage Bar Kupershtein Shares His Story of Survival
Shalhevet hosted Bar Kupershtein, who was held hostage for nearly two years in the tunnels beneath Gaza, as he shared his story of survival, speaking powerfully about resilience, emunah, and Jewish strength — a living reminder of Am Yisrael’s unbreakable spirit and our responsibility to one another.
Deep Commitment to Torah and Israel Sephardic Minyan Closes the Year with Record Attendance
Shalhevet’s Sephardic Minyan finished the year strong with its largest attendance since its founding nine years ago, filling each tefila with our Sephardic community’s nusach and warmth.
Shalhevet is guided by a vision of passionate Modern Orthodoxy that is grounded in halacha and engaged in contemporary issues facing the Jewish community and the world at large. We teach students to recognize and infuse spirituality in every facet of life.
A Senior Leads the Final Night Seder of the Year
A fitting close to a beloved tradition: senior Benjamin Sztuden ‘26 led the year’s final Night Seder, guiding an evening of learning in the beit midrash and modeling what student-driven Talmud Torah looks like.
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SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
Rosh Chodesh Lunch & Learns Tackle Responsibility Our inspiring Rosh Chodesh Lunch & Learns sparked discussion on lashon harah, the history of women’s Talmud Torah, and much more over delicious meals — giving our girls a monthly space for learning and connection.
School-Wide Siyum Caps a Full Year of Torah Learning
The whole school celebrated a year of school-wide learning with an end-of-year siyum completed by Tyler and Jordan Mathalon ‘27, alongside a special d’var Torah from Ari Eisen ‘27. The celebration capped a year of Torah learning shared across every grade.
Yom Ha’atzmaut Marked by Shuk Vibes, Ruach, and Tefila
Our Girls Beit Midrash Fills Up
Israel’s Independence Day brought school-wide tefila, music, an Israeli shuk, and a joyous chagigah as students celebrated Medinat Yisrael with full-throttle simcha and ruach.
Dr. Sheila Keiter spearheaded a Girls Beit Midrash during “flex” periods, with shiurim spanning parshat hashavua and sections of Nach — deepening girls’ Torah learning and student-led teaching alike.
Masmidim Adds a Parsha and Halacha Chaburah
Masmidim widened its flexperiod learning with a Parsha and Halacha chaburah led by Rabbi Yagil Tsaidi, giving students another entry point into practical, weekly learning alongside the program’s Gemara and Chumash chaburot, which are led by Rabbi Gabe Falk.
Advanced Tanach and Gemara During Breakfast
Students dedicate extra time to Talmud Torah by arriving at school early for hashkama and then using their breakfast slot for Advanced Gemara (Masechet Berachot) and Advanced Tanach (Bereishit) — adding another opportunity for serious Torah study before the formal school day gets rolling.
Yom HaZikaron Observed with Tekes and Testimony
Yom HaZikaron began with a moving tekes honoring all those who have given their lives for Medinat Yisrael. Rabbi Gormin shared memories of his beloved former talmid Ben Mizrachi z”l, and Rabbi Stein drew lessons from the legacy of Ben Zussman z”l. Our tefilot challenged students to see themselves not only as inheritors of the Jewish story but as guardians of the Jewish people.
Yom HaShoah Anchored in Torah and Memory
Yom HaShoah spotlighted the remarkable story of Ms. Susanne Reyto, a child survivor and awardwinning author whose account was filled with resilience, miracles, and hashgacha. Rebbeim, faculty, and fellow students also shared words of chizuk, divrei Torah, and powerful memories. The program closed with students lighting candles to remember the 6 million Jews who perished.
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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Teaching Thoughtful and Ethical Use of AI
Rather than avoiding artificial intelligence, Shalhevet faculty made it a school-wide instructional focus — teaching students how to use AI responsibly to strengthen critical thinking, excellent writing, and research while grappling with the ethical implications of emerging technology. The English Department led the way, integrating AI into instruction while safeguarding authentic student voice and analysis.
Critical Thinking and Academic Inquiry
Shalhevet cultivates critical and creative thinking through its rigorous and crossdisciplinary educational approach that exposes students to multiple ideas and viewpoints both inside and outside the classroom. By encouraging a deep sense of curiosity, independent thinking, and a love of learning, students attain not only a preeminent General and Judaic studies education, but also the tools and drive to become lifelong learners.
Senior Mini-mesters Span Medical Ethics to Rabbinic Oddities
Seniors closed their Shalhevet careers with a rich slate of mini-mesters: Jewish Medical Ethics with Rabbi Jason Weiner, Chassidut with Rabbi Derek Gormin, the Narcissism of Small Differences in Jewish Life with Professor Sarah Nissel, Exploring the World of Hilchot Kashrut with Rabbi Eli Broner, Rabbinic Oddities with Rabbi Avraham Lieberman, Re-Examining Misunderstood Ideas in Judaism with Rabbi David Block, and Beit Midrash with Rabbi Ari Schwarzberg.
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SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
Anatomy and Physiology Returns to Cedars-Sinai’s Labs
For the third consecutive year, the Cedars-Sinai pathology and autopsy labs hosted our Honors Anatomy and Physiology students, with Dr. Aaron Fishburn guiding a firsthand look at real-world medicine that no classroom can replicate.
Science Classes Keep Students Thinking Like Scientists
The Science Department deepened its inquiry through hands-on investigations that helped students think, test, observe, and problem solve. Students more deeply explored organic chemistry, biochemistry, and animal dissections to strengthen their understanding and turn abstract concepts into something visible and measurable.
Art History Tours Classical Antiquities at the Getty Villa
Art History Teacher Verity Weisz took her Art History class to the Getty Villa in Malibu for a private, docentled tour of Greek and Roman antiquities, where students explored the materials, technique, and themes of the Classical period.
Hollywood Effects Pioneer Brings ‘The Fifth Element’ to Film and Literature
Dr. Scott Ross, who ran Digital Domain — the studio behind most of the visual effects for Luc Besson’s 1997 sci-fi classic “The Fifth Element” — gave a guest lecture to seniors in Film and Literature, unpacking the practical and visual effects craft behind the film they studied.
Juniors Get a Taste of College Life at UCLA
Eleventh graders spent a college experience day at the University of California, Los Angeles, gaining valuable exposure to campus life and beginning to think intentionally about the next stage of their educational journeys.
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‘The Addams Family’ Reaches New Heights
The Drama Department’s groundbreaking production of “The Addams Family” was a tremendous success, drawing enthusiastic audiences from the Shalhevet community and across Los Angeles. For the first time, the audience was seated in the gym, allowing the production to reach new heights of scale and showcasing extraordinary student talent on our biggest stage yet.
Transformative Personal Growth
Shalhevet inspires each student to maximize their potential, pursue their passions, and become the best version of themselves. By pushing them outside their comfort zones and providing them with engaging co-curriculars, programs, and curricula, students achieve transformative personal growth — morally, religiously, academically, and socially.
Poland-Israel Experience 2026: A Siyum in the Making
This year’s Poland-Israel Experience once again transformed our seniors, deepening their understanding of Jewish history, identity, memory, and resilience through days that challenged them intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually — through the concentration camps, ghettos and memorial sites. The crowning moment came at Yeshivat Chachmei Lublin, where Rose Ash ‘26, Sophie Katz ‘26, Yakov Liberman ‘26, Eitan Lerner ‘26, and Ariel Mazar ‘26 completed a siyum on Masechet Beitza — what the Beit Midrash Track began learning last summer with this moment in mind — filling the historic beit midrash with Torah and ruach. Students carried that energy to Israel for volunteer work and connection.
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SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
Firehawks 4 Israel Meet with Congressmen for Am Yisrael
Members of Firehawks 4 Israel met with Congressman Jon Tester (D-MT) at an intimate AIPAC event and, on a separate occasion with Congressman Pete Aguilar (D-CA) for their unwavering support and advocacy for Israel and the Jewish People.
Girls Volleyball Captures the YULA Tournament Championship for Third Consecutive Year
Girls Basketball Place Third at Galbut Tournament in Miami
The Girls Basketball Team placed third at the 20th Annual Captain Hyman P. Galbut Tournament, capping off an exceptional season of athleticism. Sarah Edwards ‘27 was named 1st Team All-Tournament!
The Girls Volleyball Team took home the YULA Tournament Championship once again, for the third year in a row, highlighting another outstanding season of Firehawks athletics.
Baseball Clinches First Mulholland League Title in a Decade
On a dramatic Senior Day honoring its graduating teammates, the Boys Baseball Team captured their first Mulholland League championship in 10 years with a walk-off 2-1 win in extra innings.
Boys Basketball Makes History in Shalhevet’s Highest Division Ever
Robotics Team Competes Against 40+ Teams at LA District FRC
Robotics Team 6000 and their robot, Yibaneh HaMikdash, competed in the LA District FRC competition in El Segundo alongside more than 40 teams, taking on a demanding course that required the robot to climb, shoot dodgeball-sized balls into a hoop, and navigate complex obstacles.
Boys Basketball delivered one of the most successful seasons in school history, competing in CIF Southern Section Division 3 — the highest division Shalhevet has ever reached — and advancing further than any Firehawks team before them, including an impressive run in the CIF State Playoffs. The team also reached the semifinals of the prestigious Sarachek Tournament, cementing Shalhevet’s place among the premier Jewish high school basketball programs in the country.
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Mock Trial Advanced to Quarterfinals in the County At the Superior Court in Downtown LA, our Mock Trial team secured victories in their pretrial motion and trial verdict, earning a spot in the playoffs where their poise, presentation, and legal acumen brought them to the quarterfinals.
Empathetic Dialogue and Discourse
Shalhevet empowers students to find their voices, develop personal views, and effectively communicate through discourse, discussion, and debate. More importantly, they learn how to respectfully listen, engage, and thoughtfully process different perspectives. Our students learn to understand and value each other whether in the classroom, the Beit Midrash, the gym, or our weekly Town Hall.
Shalhevet Podcast Gets a Rebrand — and Big Conversations
Under the new name “Shalhevet Unplugged,” Shalhevet’s podcast — hosted by Rabbis Ari Schwarzberg and Yagil Tsaidi — dug deep into topics like watching the Super Bowl Halftime show, parent-student relationships, teaching Gemara in high school, students making aliyah, and students’ experiences, among other timely topics.
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Town Hall Talks Homework, Iran War, and Tackling Sensitive Subjects
Town Hall is the place where civil discourse and healthy disagreement is always in full swing. In a world increasingly averse to thoughtful, open conversations, Shalhevet’s students show that the need for dialogue has never been more urgent. When Homework Is Posted From the moment the school day ends, students are working hard on assignments from their teachers. At this Town Hall, the conversation focused on timing — when assignments should be posted relative to their due date, and how students and teachers can navigate their many obligations. How War Impacts Our Community As the U.S. and Israel faced Iran in the Middle East, our students discussed the ways in which a war abroad affected their daily lives — whether as students with Iranian family who fled decades ago, or Israeli family fighting in the war today. Speaking About Sensitive Matters Conversation is important, but it must also be mindful of its subject. Students discussed how casually sensitive matters like suicide and violence can arise in conversation, and the importance of mindful, intentional language.
Representing Austria and the Bahamas at Yeshiva University’s Model UN Conference
Our Model UN team represented Austria and the Bahamas at the 36th Annual Yeshiva University National Model United Nations, joining dozens of teams to debate, discuss, and negotiate as if they were real delegates at the UN. Our delegation excellently simulated the workings of the real UN by navigating the complex landscape of international diplomacy, while representing their countries’ interests.
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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Flower Repurposing Project Brings Bouquets to Local Seniors
Students transformed floral arrangements donated after weddings, Shalhevet events, and community events into new bouquets for local senior citizens — personally delivered with handwritten notes — giving the blooms a second life while bringing joy to those who received them.
Active Engagement in Our Community and Beyond
Shalhevet encourages its students to think beyond themselves and take an active role in contributing to the common good of our Shalhevet community and the world at large. Dedicated to chesed in all forms, students advocate for meaningful causes, volunteer their time, and learn to become positive leaders and global citizens.
A Friendship Circle Purim Carnival In partnership with Friendship Circle, Shalhevet’s Purim carnival brought together students and Friendship Circle members for a joyous afternoon with delicious food, exciting games, and a petting zoo.
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Delivering Shabbos Food Across LA
Each week, students volunteer with Tomchei Shabbos, packing and delivering food to families throughout our community — helping families preserve their dignity while bringing in Shabbos with everything they need.
Students Assemble Purim Food Packages for the Elderly and Hospitalized In honor of Purim, Shalhevet students partnered with LA Jewish Care to assemble food gift packages for elderly and hospitalized community members.
Shalhevet Community Shows Up for 36-Hour Charidy Campaign
We marked the close of a tremendous Charidy campaign with an End-of-Year Celebration of community, gratitude, and celebration. In just 36 hours, the campaign raised over $580,000 to advance the school’s mission — a testament to the generosity of the entire Shalhevet community.
Spring Blood Drive a Strong Success
Our student-led, Cedars-Sinai blood drive brought our community to step up and donate blood to those medically in need, a beautiful undertaking during a dire time.
Chai Lifeline Partnership Pairs Students with Children in Need
With our flagship partnership with Chai Lifeline, students volunteered as Big Brothers and Big Sisters to run weekly programming for children facing serious illness, forming meaningful friendships that made an immeasurable difference.
Challah Bake Brings Shabbos to Local Seniors Shalhevet students came together for a challah bake and delivered fresh challah to local senior residences ahead of Shabbos, combining hands-on chesed with the warmth of the coming Shabbat.
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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Color War Crowns Seniors After Three Days of Ruach
Color War 2026 kicked off with an epic prank assembly breakout before students dove into activities and competitions including indoor hockey, 3-on-3 basketball, ping pong, knockout, and a Coke & Pepsi game for the books. In a new twist, students returned to campus after day one for even more nighttime competition. After three days of healthy competition, bonding, and Shali ruach, the seniors won under the leadership of Director of Student Activities Mika Shalom.
Tu B’Shvat Seders Bring Learning, Reflection, and Ruach
Shalhevet marked Tu B’Shvat with a meaningful, energizing celebration of learning, reflection, and plenty of fruit. Our beautiful Tu B’Shvat sedarim created a special experience that reminded students growth takes time, nourishment, and care.
Wellness, Joy, and Self-Actualization
Shalhevet ensures students thrive in our safe and joyful environment, where they feel cared for and are embraced for being their authentic selves. Students form close relationships with peers and faculty that support their overall wellbeing. By creating a warm, energetic, and spirited atmosphere, students are genuinely excited and happy to be in school.
Lag B’Omer Brings Firehawk Fun and Classic Shali Ruach
Students celebrated Lag B’Omer with a festive day of BBQ, archery, and activities, alongside meaningful learning, singing, and connection — marking the day with the mix of Torah and simcha that defines the Shalhevet calendar.
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SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
Class of 2006 Returns Home
Senior Sleepover Ends with a Sunrise Hike to Catch Netz Tefila
The Class of 2026 spent a night in the building, bonding over games and camaraderie before an early-morning hike to catch netz — celebrating friendships, reflecting on their Shalhevet journeys, and making one more memory before graduation.
Two decades after graduation, the Class of 2006 returned to campus for a reunion filled with reconnection and celebration of their Shalhevet roots — a reminder that, no matter how much time passes, Shalhevet is always home.
Learning the Skills of Prevention and Healthy Decision-Making Students participated in substance abuse prevention education and a comprehensive drug awareness program focused on healthy decision-making, recognizing warning signs, and supporting peers — equipping Firehawks for challenges that too often go undiscussed. This comes alongside robust programming addressing social media safety, gambling, mental health, and more.
Seniors Pass Down Wisdom to Underclassmen at End-of-Year Kumzitz
The whole school came together for a moving endof-year kumzitz, as four seniors shared reflections and passed down hard-earned wisdom to underclassmen between heartfelt singing — marking the transition from one Shalhevet generation to the next.
Intramural Leagues Keep the School Spirit Going All Year
School spirit thrived through intramural Ping-Pong and a basketball league that sparked friendly competition and connection across grade levels all year long.
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Looking Toward the Future: Israel and College Guidance Israel Guidance
We are proud that over 85% of the Class of 2026 will spend a year in Israel, receiving acceptances from 20+ yeshivot, midrashot, and programs, including: Yeshivot » Aish Gesher » Eretz Hatzvi » Hakotel » Har Etzion (Gush) » Lev Hatorah » Maalei Gilboah » Mevaseret » Netiv Aryeh » Reishit » Shaalavim » Torat Shraga » Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavneh » Yeshivat Torah V’Avodah Programs » Bar Ilan » Mechina Olamit
Midrashot » Amit » Amudim » Machon Maayan » Migdal Oz » Midreshet Eshel » Midreshet Harova » Midreshet Lindenbaum » Midreshet Moriah » Midreshet Torah V’Avodah » Midreshet Torat Chesed » Nishmat » Shaalavim for Women » Tiferet We are especially proud of our seniors planning to enlist in the IDF or national service after graduation, joining our many alumni who have served and currently serve Israel.
College Guidance
After all the college counseling classes, one-on-one meetings, application assistance, and more, we are immensely proud of the Class of 2026 receiving acceptances from 90+ universities. Their excellence gained them admission to institutions such as:
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» Arizona State University
» Rutgers University
» Binghamton University
» Tulane University
» Brandeis University
» University of California, Los Angeles
» Brown University
» University of California, Santa Cruz
» Columbia University
» University of Maryland
» Cornell University
» University of Michigan
» Harvard University
» University of Pennsylvania
» New York University
» Washington University in St. Louis
» Reichman University – IDC Herzliya
» Yeshiva University (Honors)
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
Creating an Engaged and Excited Parent Community
Torat Shalhevet and the Shalhevet Parent Association foster a sense of connection and community for Shalhevet parents, helping them feel engaged and involved in school life. Parents Lead Faculty Appreciation Week
Following the yearly tradition, the Shalhevet Parent Association brought a full week of appreciation for faculty and staff, desserts, coffees, treats, and lunch as a small gesture of gratitude. The effort expressed community-wide recognition for our strong parent-educator partnership.
Pre-Shavuot Flower Arranging
Shalhevet’s Pre-Shavuot Flower Arranging Event was a wonderful evening with our community, filled with so much creativity and beauty as we head into the chag.
Parent Night Tackles Social Media Safety
Shalhevet hosted a Social Media Safety Parent Night, helping families better understand digital citizenship, online safety, and strategies for supporting adolescents in today’s digital landscape.
Wine Tasting and Torah Usher in Pesach
As part of Torat Shalhevet, we paired Torah from the Limudei Kodesh team with Israeli wines from California Kosher Wines, as our community learned at tables each matched to a specially selected wine.
Kabbalat Shabbat Uplifts Parents
Shalhevet parents joined us for several Kabbalat Shabbat tefillot with beautiful singing that brought our Shali ruach to Torat Shalhevet to strengthen connection to Hashem.
Parent Learning Continues to Grow with Torat Shalhevet Shiur Opportunities
Whether our Women’s Breakfast & Parsha Shiur led by Ms. Malka Popper, or Rabbi Gabriel Falk’s enriching Gemara chabura, Torat Shalhevet continues to bring deep, exciting, and serious Torah learning to packed rooms of parents and community members.
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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Meet Some of the Shalhevet Community
Taylor Gruenbaum ‘27
Isaac Messinger ‘27
Ms. Michelle Crincoli
These relationships ‘have shaped my experience more than anything’
‘I don’t know where I’d be without this school’
‘I feel loved and supported on a daily basis’
“When I think about what Shalhevet means to me, I think about the relationships. Some of the most meaningful parts of my experience haven’t happened during class, but in the conversations that continue afterward. Whether with teachers who always make time to listen, encourage, and challenge me, or with friends who have become a constant source of support, those relationships have shaped my experience more than anything else. It’s a place where meaningful conversations don’t end when class does and where people genuinely care about one another. Shalhevet has become a home, not just for four years, but for life.“
“Being a student at Shalhevet is the greatest opportunity I’ve had. Walking into school every day with a smile on my face, being greeted by friends and teachers who share that smile, is the best feeling. The relationships I’ve formed with my Rebbeim are ones that I will hold onto for a long time. Having those mentors and teachers who I feel comfortable with to ask questions to — whenever I need and whatever the subject may be — makes my life so much easier and better overall. I don’t know where I’d be without this school. I feel so lucky and grateful to have Shalhevet in my life.”
Taylor Gruenbaum ‘27 is a senior at Shalhevet, co-captain for the Girls Varsity Basketball team, a member of the chesed committee, a member of Firehawks4Israel, and in the Beit Midrash Track.
Isaac Messinger ‘27 is a senior at Shalhevet, co-captain of the Model Congress team, leader of the school band, and in the Advanced Gemara Shiur.
“I have had the privilege of teaching at Shalhevet for around 16 years, and there are so many positives about teaching here. First and foremost is the family-oriented attitude of the faculty and staff. I feel loved and supported on a daily basis here, and I’m not sure many people can say this about their workplace. That love and support translates into a stellar faculty and a well-run school. My students are also an extension of that family. Our classrooms are rigorous and supportive at the same time. Students come into my space knowing they will gain knowledge from the time we gather together, both intellectually and emotionally. Shalhevet focuses on teaching the whole student and we see that in the types of students we graduate from our school — kind, intelligent and curious.”
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Ms. Michelle Crincoli is an English Teacher at Shalhevet, along with the Film Club advisor.
Rabbi David Stein
Ashley and Zoey Botnick ‘22
Kelly and Elliot Berg
‘It’s where I want my children to get their Jewish education’
Shalhevet ‘is the foundation on which our curiosity in Judaism and our love for it was built’
‘Shalhevet is one big family’
“As the parent of an incoming 9th grader, I’m often asked why we chose to send our son here — and so I find myself explaining to people that we’re not simply sending our son to Shalhevet because I happen to work here. Instead, I tell them, I chose to work at Shalhevet because it’s where I want my own children to get their Jewish education. Being a faculty member at Shalhevet High School is the greatest job in the world — it means getting to work at the forefront of Jewish education with an incredible team of dedicated and passionate educators to help shape the future of our people and community. But even more than that, it means having the zechut to be part of a school whose vision and values deliver the best education there is.”
“For both of us, Shalhevet represents far more than a high school. It is the foundation on which our curiosity in Judaism and our love for it was built. The friendships, mentors, and experiences we gained there shaped how we think, how we lead, and how we show up in the world. Shalhevet met us at a pivotal time in our lives, and gave us room to grow in ways we’re still discovering the value of today. That kind of growth didn’t end when we graduated and it’s why we remain so connected to this community years later. Wherever we go, we carry Shalhevet with us.”
Rabbi David Stein is the Director of Teaching and Learning, and has taught Gemara, Tanach, and Israeli Politics for over 14 years.
Ashley and Zoey Botnick graduated from Shalhevet in 2022 and spent a gap year in Israel before attending Yeshiva University. Ashley is the Assistant Athletic Director at YU and pursuing a master’s in sports management. Zoey is completing her master’s in architecture while interning in space planning.
“As parents at Shalhevet, we are incredibly grateful for the exceptional chinuch our children receive every day. The Torah learning is inspiring, from the outstanding Gemara shiurim to the Advanced Gemara Shiur track that challenges and excites students. The teachers are deeply invested not only in our children’s academic success but also in their personal growth and wellbeing. The general studies program is equally top-notch, preparing students to excel in every area of life. Most importantly, Shalhevet is one big family, united by a deep pride in being Jewish and a genuine love for Israel. We couldn’t ask for a better place for our children to learn and grow.” Kelly and Elliot Berg are proud parents of triplets Dalya ‘28, Jack ‘28, and Hana ‘28 entering their Junior year at Shalhevet.
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T_CrincoliMichelle
The Faculty and Staff Bringing Shalhevet to Life
With 11 departments for students’ religious, academic, and personal needs, our faculty and staff create the exceptional Shalhevet experience.
5
6
SCIENCE
5
MATH
10 13 TANACH
6
EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT & COUNSELING
Dr. Ben Anders
History Teacher, Model Congress, YUNMUN & Mock Trial Advisor
Sarah Cardenas
Receptionist
22
Dr. Elizabeth Basheer
Science Department Chair
Taek Chang
Science & Engineering Teacher, Robotics Advisor
Rabbi David Block Head of School
Maya Cohen
Director of Admissions
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
MUSIC, ART, AND JOURNALISM
Camille Bradshaw
Associate Director of College Counseling & Academic Guidance
Diego Cornejo
HISTORY
4
GEMARA/ HALACHA
4
Maintenance
6
ENGLISH
IVRIT
5
STUDENT LIFE
6
JEWISH HISTORY/ PHILOSOPHY
Rabbi Eli Broner
9th Grade Dean, Judaics Teacher
Rhina Cornejo Maintenance
Michelle Crincoli English Teacher
Rabbi Gabe Falk
Director of Torat Shalhevet, Judaics Teacher
Tovah Goldman
Director of Chesed, Judaics Teacher
Josh Jashinski
English Teacher
Michal Davis
Hebrew Language Teacher
Jose Flores
Maintenance
Rabbi Derek Gormin
Judaics Teacher
Tushar Dwivedi
Math and Art Teacher, Model Congress Advisor
Brian Forrester English Teacher
Darlene Grover
Director of Education Support
Dr. Sheila Keiter
Chana Meira Katz Judaics Teacher
Judaics & History Teacher, Agenda Advisor
Lili Einalhori
Business Office and Facilities Manager
Yossie Frankel
Director of IT and Ed Tech
Dr. Keith Harris
History Department Chair, 11th Grade Dean
Yoni Keynan Art Teacher
Sarah Emerson
Chief Operating Officer
Tamara Gidanian Math Teacher
Molly Jalali
Admissions & Development Associate
Justin Khalil
Science Teacher, Strength Trainer Advisor for Athletics
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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Ortal Klyman
Hebrew Department Chair
Rabbi Avraham Lieberman
Judaics Teacher
Rachel Lin
Operations & Communications Associate
Jennifer Kong
Math Teacher
Gabriela Marcus
Guidance Counselor, Psychology Teacher
Sagi Refael
Esther Kustanowitz Journalism Teacher, Boiling Point Faculty Advisor
Jordan Moss
Director of College Counseling & Academic Guidance
Dr. Jonathan Ravanshenas
10th Grade Eim Bayit
Hebrew Language Teacher
Ana Valladares Rivera
Carmen Pacheco
Malka Popper
Noga Raviv
Dylan Ross
Dean of Student Life, Psychology Teacher
Maintenance
24
Homa Kohan
Math Teacher
Natalie Ravanshenas
Chief Academic Officer, Judaic Studies Principal
Hebrew Language Teacher
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
Maintenance
English Teacher
Luke Lapointe
Education Support Specialist
Muriel Ohana
Assistant to the Head of School
Rose Parekh
Science & Math Teacher
Miguel Sanchez
Maintenance
Sanaz Sazegar
Director of Development
Ruthie Skaist
Art Teacher
Juan Verduzco Math Teacher
Rabbi Ari Schwarzberg
12th Grade Dean, Judaics Teacher
Rabbi David Stein
Director of Teaching & Learning, Judaics Teacher
Rabbi Jason Weiner
Judaics Teacher
Andrea Serrano
Education Support Specialist
Rabbi Etan Taragin Judaics Teacher
Verity Weisz
English & Art History Teacher
Mika Shalom
Dr. Josh Sharfman
Rabbi Yagil Tsaidi
Timothy Tucker
Director of Student Activities, Judaics Teacher
Mashgiach Ruchani, Judaics Teacher
Daniel Weslow Principal
Computer Science Teacher
Director of Athletics, Head Boys Basketball Coach
Reyna Zack
Director of Performing Arts and Choir, Drama Teacher
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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How We Create the Shalhevet Experience: Financial Reporting Shalhevet High School Revenue Tuition Revenue
81.8%
Fundraising Revenue
14.3%
Endowment Revenue
1.8%
Rental Income
2.1%
$
+
Expenses 2025-26
Shalhevet High School Expenses
26
Revenue 2025-26
Personnel - Salary, Wages and Benefits
69.1%
Programming, Athletics, Co-Curriculars and Trips
8.5%
Facilities, General and Administrative
5.5%
Depreciation
4.6%
Development
2.6%
Loan Servicing
4.6%
Security
1.9%
Accounting and Human Resources
1.1%
Other Professional Services
2.1%
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
$
-
$2.6 Million
In Tuition Assistance for Nearly 50% of Shalhevet Students
Providing tuition assistance to families needing extra help has been a Shalhevet priority since our founding. All assistance information is kept strictly confidential, and we maintain our blind admissions process, guaranteeing that all students receive the best education and experience Shalhevet can offer.
852 Donors
Relationships that Last a Lifetime: Unique Donations Give Back to Shalhevet
Shalhevet builds relationships with its community of students, alumni, and parents that last well beyond four years of high school. We are proud and grateful for the 852 unique donations Shalhevet received this year that ensure we can continue to give back to students.
SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL I END-OF-YEAR REPORT 2025-26 I 5786
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