From the Educator - November 1998

We are reaching the midway point of the school year and as we turn the corner into 1999, it seems appropriate to share with you the progress that has been made in hiring someone to fill the position of Education Director beginning in July. As most of you know, I am retiring after eighteen exciting, challenging and rewarding years of developing and implementing the educational programs for the children and families of Congregation Albert. The time has come to make plans for the future and a multi-leveled approach is already in place.

By the time you read this, the first of several important congregational meetings will have been held. The Long Range Planning committee (also known as "Strategic Visioning") has been very hard at work creating a series of workshops designed to involve all congregation members in the process of planning our future.

A major component of the work relates to the goals of our educational programs. The role of Temple Educator may be redefined in terms of new models that may emerge from the discussions. In order to offer the greatest opportunity for innovation and creative planning, it has been decided that the position I currently hold should be filled by an interim educator whose primary responsibility will be to maintain the quality and diversity of current programs. After all the congregational meetings have been held, the committee will collate and analyze the information. The role of the Director of Education may be completely revised as a result. Be assured, however, that plans for filling the interim position are in place. We expect to begin interviewing candidates in January.

I urge everyone who is concerned about the future of Jewish education in our congregation and in our community to attend the LRP meetings, not just to listen, but to bring fresh ideas to the table. I have been giving a lot of thought to the notion of "breaking the mold" by looking at different models for religious education and plan to play an active role in future planning.

I am sure that you know I share your desire to provide the best educational opportunities possible for all our families. Be assured that the leaders of the congregation, both clergy and lay, are deeply committed to the same goals. Please participate in the process and let your voices be heard.

B'shalom,

Glenda

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