It’s a moment of excitement and pride when the Central community welcomes newcomers into the building. On Sunday, October 15, Central faculty, staff, and students had a chance to do just that during the school’s annual Open House. Wildcats extended a warm welcome to prospective eighth-grade students and their families with a taste of life at YUHSG.
The morning began with greetings and registration in the Central lobby, after which visitors were ushered upstairs into the gymnasium for remarks from Central’s Mashgiach Ruchani, Rabbi Joshua Goller, as well as Yeshiva University’s Vice President for Legal Affairs, Secretary, and General Counsel, Mr. Andrew (Avi) Lauer, who extended a warm welcome on behalf of YU and talked about the value of a Jewish education at this critical moment in our history.
All attendees joined in T’hilim and a prayer for Israeli soldiers, to show support for Israel. Head of School Ms. Bracha Rutner and Associate Principal Ms. Leah Moskovich also gave remarks. The student perspective was given by senior Lois Rifkin in an elegant, heartfelt speech. “I was so proud to speak at the Central Open House,” she said. “Joining the Central family was truly the best decision I ever made, and I couldn’t wait to pass that message along. My past three years at Central have been the most amazing experience, and I am looking forward to the rest of this year.”
After introductions, parents and students split to attend their respective focus groups: Parent sessions were led by Ms. Rutner and Associate Principal Ms. Leah Moskovich, discussing student opportunities both in and out of the classroom. Mrs. Aliza Gewirtz (Dean of Students) and Dr. Ariella Gettenberg (School Psychologist) discussed student support services. “We are thrilled to welcome prospective students and their parents into the building,” Mrs. Gewirtz said. “The Open House is always a celebration of the amazing events and opportunities happening at Central, and it’s a great pleasure to invite eighth graders and their families to take part in this celebration.”
Prospective students were treated to presentations on select classes, including Spanish with Prof. Erez Bar-Levy and Chumash with Mrs. Rebecca Teper. At the end of these classes, they were offered the chance to assemble packages for Israeli soldiers, gaining a first-hand understanding of Central’s deep connection to Israel and the significance of the value of chesed. The student-oriented day included performances from Central’s choir, dance, and drama teams in “Central’s Family Feud!” while parents concluded with a talk on the Central legacy by Science Department Chairperson and Science Institute Director Mrs. Ruth Fried.
Reunited, parents and students were then treated to a curriculum fair before closing out the day. Central’s Assistant Director of Admissions and Office Manager, Ms. Kymmie Baker, is an integral force behind the organization of the day. She spoke to the significance of such a visit for those at the cusp of high school: “We always look forward to welcoming eighth graders and their families into the building – and into the Central family,” she said. “Open House events like the student life sessions and the creative performances are really special, because they give students a full picture of what Central has to offer. It’s an opportunity for visitors to experience the warmth that defines our building.”
