In this episode of MoriahCast, R' Alter dives into the crucial role of writing in education. Joined by Associate Principal Mrs. Tzipporah Boim and Lower School Director of Curriculum and Instruction Mrs. Zeva Adelsberg, they discuss the importance of reading and structured writing programs. The episode discusses how the Writing Revolution program is implemented at the Moriah School, focusing on the step-by-step development of writing skills from basic sentences to multi-paragraph essays. How grammar is taught contextually and the significance of integrating writing across various subjects. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of reading in enhancing writing skills and concludes with evaluating the success of the writing program through various benchmarks and feedback from graduates.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:02 The Importance of Writing

03:40 The Writing Revolution Program

05:31 Teaching Writing Skills

16:26 Integrating Writing Across Curriculum

17:19 The Role of Reading in Writing

18:38 Evaluating Success in Writing

19:35 Conclusion

In this episode of MoriahCast, Rabbi Daniel Alter delves into the school's approach to sports and physical education. He discusses the benefits of participation in sports for children's physical and mental well-being, teamwork, and character building. Alter highlights the balance needed between playing and watching sports, the selection process for school sports teams, and the importance of ensuring that children have well-rounded identities beyond just athletics. He also touches on the community's role in fostering a healthy sports culture and shares his insights on how parents can support their children's diverse interests. The episode also explores the logistics of middle school sports and reiterates the importance of building resilient and well-rounded students.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:47 The Obsession with Sports

04:42 Benefits of Playing Sports

05:36 Moriah's Physical Education Program

11:56 Middle School Sports Teams

19:10 Parental Behavior and League Logistics

21:40 Conclusion: Raising Well-Rounded Individuals

Inside Class Placement at The Moriah School: Insights and Guidance for Parents

In this episode of MoriahCast, Rabbi Daniel Alter, Head of School at The Moriah School, takes a thoughtful look at the emotionally charged topic of class placement. He explains the school’s goal of creating optimal learning environments and outlines the many factors that go into class assignments, including academic needs, social-emotional development, and the overall balance of each class.

Rabbi Alter addresses common parental anxieties and misconceptions, offers practical advice on how to approach class assignments, and shares a vision for the future — including the possibility of more flexible class placements as the school continues to grow. This episode provides parents with a transparent window into a nuanced and confidential process, while highlighting the importance of trust and partnership between school and home.

The goal of MoriahCast is to provide parents with meaningful behind-the-scenes insight into the philosophy and values that shape Jewish education at The Moriah School. By sparking ongoing dialogue, deepening understanding, and promoting a shared vision of the Moriah student experience, the podcast helps strengthen the foundation of our school community.

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome to MoriahCast: An Introduction

01:04 – Understanding Class Placement Anxiety

02:40 – The Goals and Factors of Class Placement

03:39 – Academic and Social Considerations

06:59 – Parental Input and Misconceptions

08:29 – Advice for Parents on Class Placement

14:04 – The Future of Class Placement at The Moriah School

15:22 – Conclusion