Shows
The SparkThe magic of Mishnafari with Tami HershkovitzIn this inspiring episode of The Spark Podcast, Dr. Weiss welcomes back beloved former Bornblum teacher Tami Hershkovitz, who has created something truly special during her time away from Memphis. Tami shares her innovative "Mishnafari" program—a groundbreaking curriculum that brings the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) to life for preschoolers through second graders.Through charming adventure stories, young children meet ancient Jewish sages and learn valuable life lessons about friendship, strength, generosity, and character. But this isn't just storytelling - it's a comprehensive educational program that seamlessly weaves together Jewish st...2025-06-2025 minThe SparkSeeing the Sunset in Israel with Bornblum 8th GradersIn this moving episode of The Spark Podcast, Dr. Weiss sits down with Bornblum 8th Graders just days after their return from a powerful two-week journey to Israel during a historically significant time. As these students prepare to leave Bornblum, they share profound reflections on bringing ceramic hearts to Hostages Square, honoring their culture at the Western Wall, witnessing memorial ceremonies, and navigating Israel during ongoing conflict.The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as these young adults discuss their upcoming transitions to various high schools. They candidly share their hopes, fears, and how their Jewish...2025-05-1627 minThe SparkThe Violinist and The Rockstar with Third Graders Arielle and MillerIn this episode of The Spark Podcast, Dr. Weiss shines a spotlight on two remarkably talented Third Grade musicians. Meet Arielle, a dedicated violinist following in her mother's musical footsteps, and Miller, a budding rock guitarist with an ear for grunge and classic rockThese young performers share their musical journeys, from Arielle's daily practice routine and symphony performances to Miller's School of Rock training and upcoming gig. Listen as they discuss their inspirations, demonstrate their impressive skills (including live performances of Vivaldi and "Seven Nation Army"), and reveal dreams of future orchestras and...2025-05-0921 minThe SparkThe Hollywood Actress from Bornblum with Island AustinIn this episode of The Spark Podcast, Dr. Weiss sat down with a remarkable Bornblum Fourth Grader, Island Austin, who opens up about her extraordinary journey from dedicated gymnast to rising Hollywood actress, balancing schoolwork with her blossoming film career.Island shares behind-the-scenes stories from her recent films, including working alongside Heather Graham and her upcoming project with Dennis Quaid. She talks about her life on set, from long days of filming to the special bond she formed with castmates—including a heartwarming story about matching fluffy slippers with a Hollywood star!...2025-05-0225 minThe SparkThe Two Teachers from Shoham with Ronit Dahan and Iris Raber-CohenIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with Ronit Dahan and Iris Raber-Cohen, two passionate educators from Shoham, Israel who are visiting Memphis to strengthen the educational partnership between sister cities. They talk about how Memphis and Shoham have created meaningful connections that transcend distance, allowing students to explore their shared Jewish identity while celebrating their unique cultural perspectives.They share touching stories about collaborative projects, emotional moments of hearing American students singing Israeli songs, and their admiration for Memphis's unified Jewish community. This conversation reveals how educational partnerships can foster global...2025-03-2817 minThe SparkMixing What You Love with What You Want to Change with Bornblum Middle StudentsWhat do cooking, racism, jewelry, the Israel-Hamas war, podcasting, and animal abuse awareness have in common?In this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with three Bornblum Middle students—Jacob, Bennett, and Rosie— who share their remarkable year-long Design Thinking Capstone projects built through design thinking principles. They explain how they transformed their passions into meaningful projects addressing real-world issues.Jacob combined his love of cooking with addressing racism by creating a cookbook that connects Jewish holiday recipes with African food traditions. Bennett channeled his interest in technology to crea...2025-03-2124 minThe SparkHow to Be Really Creative with Zack OrsbornIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss turns the microphone around to interview our own Director of Marketing and Communications, Zack Orsborn, who typically produces the podcast from behind the scenes.They explored Zack's journey from small-town Mississippi to becoming an integral part of both the Memphis artistic community and Bornblum.They talked about Zack's "Like Really Creative" podcast, where he's interviewed 30 artists in just six weeks so far, and learn about his evolution from journalism to marketing while maintaining his identity as a multidisciplinary artist. Zack shares candid insights about finding...2025-03-1319 minThe SparkPreserving History One Tile at a Time with Ephraim UrevbuIn this follow-up interview, Dr. Weiss welcomes back renowned Memphis artist Ephraim Urevbu to discuss his ongoing collaboration with Bornblum. They talk about Ephraim's innovative "Tiles Project," which is transforming sidewalks into interactive history lessons about civil rights through QR-embedded ceramic tiles, and how Bornblum Middle students are creating their own artistic interpretations of this history for their own tiles.Ephraim shares powerful insights from his visit to the Nova Music Festival massacre exhibit in New York and draws thoughtful parallels to other historical tragedies. He also talks his ambitious "Dinner & Dialogue Tour," which uses...2025-03-0719 min
The Minimalist Educator PodcastEpisode 063: Mastering Curriculum Development with Jill CrossJoin us for a compelling journey into the art of curriculum development with our brilliant guest, Jill Cross, a National Board Certified Teacher and seasoned curriculum director. Jill shares her diverse experiences across various educational settings, from small Catholic schools to innovative museum schools, and her current role at an independent Jewish day school in Memphis, Tennessee. Learn how she deftly balances teachers' passions with the ever-evolving needs of students and standards, and discover invaluable strategies for effective curriculum changes. Through Jill's stories, we highlight the power of building strong relationships and fostering open communication with faculty to drive...2025-03-0426 minThe SparkCatching Up with the Karps Rabbi Noach Karp and Rebbetzin Miriam KarpIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with Rabbi Noach Karp and Rebbetzin Miriam Karp, a couple who recently moved to Memphis to engage with the Jewish community through Memphis Jewish Experience, exploring their life journeys and approach to community building. The Karps met through family matchmaking, lived in Providence and Columbus working with Jewish communities, and eventually moved to Memphis.Their connection to Memphis began unexpectedly during a dads' trip to Israel, where Rabbi Karp met several Memphis community members, leading to their current work with the Memphis Kollel creating programming for the...2025-02-2840 minThe SparkHow to Unpack Israel with Avi PosenIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down with Avi Posen, Director of Education for Unpacked for Educators, the powerhouse behind engaging Israel education in over 2,000 schools worldwide. They dive into three key ways to teach about Israel, the importance of presenting multiple perspectives, and the painful complexity of bringing hostages home. Avi also shares his vision for the future of Unpacked for Educators and opens up about his personal connection to one of Israel’s most beloved songs right now.2025-01-3124 minThe SparkJewish Identity in ColorIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down with an extraordinary group of Fourth Graders—Olivia, Ari, Brody, Ori, Nora, and Tamara—to explore their Jewish Identity Art Project. Through colorful paintings filled with meaningful symbols, they expressed what their Jewish identity means to them. They share the personal stories behind their chosen symbols, from the Torah to shofars, and reflect on the values and traditions that inspire them. The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as they discuss the act of giving—how generosity and community are integral to their identity and their art.2025-01-1717 minThe SparkArt, Poetry, and Basketball with Jeffery JohnsonIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sat down with Bornblum's PE Teacher, Jeffery Johnson, a man of many talents. From growing up in Miami to becoming a walk-on basketball player at Mississippi State University to owning his own athlete training facility, Jeffery shares the ups and downs of his journey and what he’s learned along the way.They talk about how his background as a visual artist translates to the design of physical activities and youth development, how he learned character development from sports movies, his favorite story about none other than Sylvester Stalone, what go...2025-01-1020 minThe SparkThe Weight of 1.5 Million Pennies with Diane McNeilIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sat down with Diane McNeil, a board member of Unknown Children Foundation and an inspiring advocate for Holocaust remberance and education. In 2009, she helped to start the "Pennies Project," where middle school students were challenged to collected 1.5 million pennies—one for each child murdered during the Holocaust. They explore the fascinating history of the penny and its symbolism in this monumental project. Diane shares her personal calling to build bridges between Jewish and Christian communities, the challenges of transforming 1.5 million coins into a meaningful memorial, and the incredible triumphs that cam...2024-12-1324 minThe SparkHarvesting Hope with Sally PoolatIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down with Sally Poolat, the regional representative for Leket Israel, the national food bank of Israel. Sally shares the incredible work Leket does to combat food insecurity, feeding more than 300,000 people each week in a country where 20% of the population lives below the poverty line.She talks about how Leket Israel rescues surplus produce from over 200 farmers, a lifeline during these challenging times when displaced individuals have increased demand while resources and day laborers have dwindled. She highlights the resilience and dedication driving their mission and discusses how we...2024-11-2218 minThe SparkJewish Day Schools 101 with Paul BernsteinEight years ago, Paul Bernstein, Founding CEO of Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools, launched a cutting edge organization with a mission to bring together schools, funders, and communities to invest in quality teachers, advance the financial vitality of schools, and enhance education excellence in Jewish day schools.During his visit to Memphis, Dr. Weiss had the opportunity to sit down with him for a chat about alleviating the loneliness of Jewish day schools leaders, changes in Jewish education in the last 5 years, how to increase resources to Jewish day schools, Prizmah's new strategic plan, how to...2024-11-1524 minThe SparkA Garden for Rose LubinElisheva Rose Ida Lubin Z"L, granddaughter of Nathan and Alla Lubin, grew up with a fierce passion for Israel ever since she visited at the age of 5 with her grandfather. As she grew up, she knew it was her mission to make Aliyah and serve in Israel Defense Force as a Lone Soldier. Following the events of October 7, 2023, Rose died fighting for Israel's peace. To honor her memory and all Lone Soldiers, past and future, the Lubin family has created The Lone Solider Garden on Bornblum's campus. After a stirring dedication ceremony (which you...2024-11-0820 minThe SparkThe Lone Soldier with Avi BiermanIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sat down with Bornblum alum and Lone Soldier, Avi Bierman, who made Aliyah to Israel and served in the IDF Tank Battalion. Avi discussed his long-held desire to move to Israel and join the army, which was influenced by his teachers at Bornblum. They talk about his experience going through Garin Tzabar to facilitate his Aliyah and integration into Israeli society as a lone solider. He shared his experiences from October 7 and a harrowing story from his former security coordinator. He reflected on the importance of the close-knit community h...2024-11-0132 minThe SparkRemembering October 7thThe tragedies of October 7th completely upended our lives, especially the lives of our Israeli faculty who were inundated with group messages from friends and family about sirens, taking shelter, and prayers for the state of Israel.In this episode, Dr. Weiss sat down with Michal Almalem, Bornblum's Jewish Studies Principal, and Rinat Kremer, Bornblum's 4th and 5th Grade Jewish Studies and Hebrew teacher, to take a look back at how everything has changed—from what and how they teach, how they interact with students, and the personal toll it took on them.The overall me...2024-10-0727 minThe SparkThe Biography of Sally BaerSally Baer—our Director of Student Services and Assistant Head of School—is Bornblum. She is one of the pioneers who started in the genesis of this school 36 years ago and has continued to come back every day. In this episode, Dr. Weiss had the privilege of having a conversation with Sally—who will be honored at Bornblum's 36th Anniversary Gala on March 30, 2025—about her childhood growing up in Memphis, the moment she became enamored with Judaism at the age of 12, Israeli dancing with her Baron Hirsch Sunday School teacher, her experience teaching an 81-student class, the conversat...2024-09-0636 minThe SparkKicking Off the 36th YearNot only is it the 36th Anniversary of Bornblum, it's also Season 3 of The Spark! To kick off the new season, Dr Weiss had the honor of sitting down with the four members of the 36th Anniversary Committee—Alla Lubin (alumni parent and current grandparent), Jaclyn Marshall (current parent and Board of Directors Vice President), Kara Bierman (alumni parent and Board of Directors Past President), and Abby Felsenthal (alumni and current parent).They talked about why the number 36 is so important in Judaism, why they chose to volunteer their time to the Committee, and they give us a...2024-08-2318 minThe SparkFrom New York to BostonOur Eighth Graders are back from their nine-day excursion to New York and Boston where they explored iconic Jewish sights, toured historical monuments and museums, and got to learn more about each other and the chaperones that traveled with them.In this week's episode, Dr. Weiss speaks with four Bornblum Eighth Graders—Mollie, Nava, Kenny, and Ross—about their class trip that fostered the creation of unforgettable memories.They talk about a Broadway show about the Women's Suffrage movement, throwing fake tea in the Griffith's Wharf in Boston, seeing a cl...2024-05-1719 minThe SparkTeacher Appreciation WeekIt's Teacher Appreciation Week! Our teachers add incredible care, talent, knowledge, warmth and so much more to the Bornblum community that we just had to talk about it.In this week's episode, Dr. Weiss speaks with three Bornblum parents/alum—Abby Felsenthal, Cara Munekata, and Justin Katz—about their experience with teachers they grew up with at Bornblum and the teachers that now instruct their children. They talk about their favorite teachers, what makes a good teacher, engaging activities that left lasting impacts, the importance of dedicating a week to appreciating teachers, the feeling Dr. Weiss...2024-05-1014 minThe SparkAn Update from College CampusesChaos has erupted at college campuses across the nation due to pro-Palestine protests. Since April, nearly 2,000 protesters have been arrested nationwide, according to The Associated Press. In this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss speaks with Isaac Ostrow—a Student Life Associate at Colombia/Barnard Hillel—and Alex Fogelman—a senior at Tulane University—about the unrest they have witnessed in the last week.Isaac and Dr. Weiss talk about his strategy for speaking with prospective students touring campus, how the Jewish community came together to make DIY seder kits, what it's been like to hear prot...2024-05-0332 minThe SparkThe Security GuardsIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with Bornblum's beloved security guards, Titus and BJ. The two security guards joined Bornblum at the beginning of the school year and have become a staple in our community. They talk how about being part of the Bornblum family have changed their lives in a positive way, how students learn respect, how Titus formulated his famous handshakes with nearly every student on campus, how Judaism fueled BJ's curiosity, and more. They also swap some of their favorite riddles!2024-04-1218 minThe SparkButterfly Month at BornblumIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with Bornblum science teacher Mary Beth Beeber to talk all things butterflies! Mary Beth is instrumental in the upkeep and beautification of our Heather Samuels Butterfly Garden, which is listed as a Monarch Waystation. They talk about how butterflies fit into Bornblum curriculum, teaching students to be responsible in the environment, the process of how we plant milkweed to attract Monarch butterflies, and the importance of outdoor education.2024-04-0516 minThe SparkMaking Tradition FunIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with Rabbi Levi and Rivky Klein from Chabad of Tennessee. Thirty years ago, they moved to Memphis to start Chabad of Tennessee and have since created several Chabad communities across the state. They talk about the fascinating history of Chabad of Tennessee, how to build resources for the Memphis Jewish community, taking it one mitzvah at a time, and why tradition (with a twist) matters today!2024-03-1526 minThe SparkThe Israel MissionIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss is joined by parent and former Bornblum board member Margo Fogelman and past president of the Bornblum board Jill Shanker, as they recount their experience with 20 members of the Memphis Jewish community as they traveled around Israel on a mission.They talked about the feeling of the atmosphere and the “veil of normalcy” they witnessed, visiting a car graveyard in southern Israel, visiting the site of the Nova Festival, meeting and hearing harrowing stories from ZAKA Search and Rescue volunteers, touring the kibbutz where the heroic Rose Lubi...2024-03-0831 minThe SparkDesigning for DisabilitiesIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with Fourth Grader Sammie and Fifth Grader Graham, who placed in the Top 5 out of 254 entries for their team submission to ADI Negev's Make the Change Challenge for Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month! Sammie and Graham came up with the Helmet Pillow, designed to prevent Muscular Dystrophy head injuries due to falls.He is also joined by Samantha Schmidt—our Design Thinking teacher—and Nathan Collier—our Fourth and Fifth Grade Science and Math teacher—to talk about the Design Thinking process and how this...2024-03-0120 minThe SparkDecoding DiscriminationIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with three Bornblum Fifth Graders—Sasha, Dylan, and Ezra—to talk about their experience meeting and talking with Dwania Kyles, one of the Memphis 13 and co-founder and president of the Memphis 13 Foundation. They talk about the importance of the Civil Rights Movement, showing empathy to others not like us, what they've learned in Fifth Grade Social Studies in regards to desegregation, and what we can do to make the world a kinder place. 2024-02-1617 minThe SparkThe Art of TruthIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sits down with artist Ephraim Urevbu who spearheaded the Naked Truth Art project, a body of work that consists of 150 pieces of art that explore race and reconciliation, telling untold stories, and connecting artists.They talk about Ephraim's journey from Nigeria to Memphis to pursue his life's purpose, how he developed the South Main Arts District, how music and the Civil Rights Movement influence his work, the therapeutic qualities of having an artistic practice to process trauma, and how healing starts with conversation.2024-02-0933 minThe SparkThe Israeli ParamedicOn the day before her 23rd birthday, Noa Abitbul—a paramedic with Magen David Adom, Israel's national medical emergency service—hoped for a quiet 8-hour shift. Then, she heard the sirens.What followed was a 16-hour shift tending to wounded soldiers and civilians during the October 7 attacks in Israel.In this episode of the Spark, Dr. Weiss sat down with Noa Abitbul and Adi Ben Ezra—Senior Development Executive for American Friends of Magen David Adom—to talk about Noa's harrowing shift, navigating risky decisions, a touching moment between two soldiers in the back of Noa's am...2024-01-2525 minThe SparkThe Full Bornblum JourneyIn this episode of the Spark, Dr. Weiss sat down with our eight Eighth Graders to talk about their journey through Bornblum. Four of the Eighth Graders interviewed were part of the first Kindergarten class at Bornblum!They talked about the importance of the 7th and 8th grade years of Bornblum in strengthening a student's Jewish identity and combating anti-Semitism, cultivating a family amongst their class, preparing for challenges that high school brings, learning empathy, and more!2024-01-1227 minThe SparkThe Tour Guide from IsraelIn this episode of the Spark, Dr. Weiss sat down with Alan Harkavy, who has spent nearly 10 years in Israel as a tour guide.They talked about the unification of people in Israel, the impact of volunteerism and Alan's own experience with volunteering at citrus farms in Israel, Alan's favorite places to give a tour, and what happened during a tour with 40 people when news of the October 7 attack happened. 2024-01-0524 minThe SparkIt Takes a VillageIn this episode of the Spark, Dr. Weiss is honored to be joined by Elie Klein, Director of Development & Marketing for ADI Negev — Nahalat Eran.Founded in 2005, the 40-acre ADI Negev-Nahalat Eran Rehabilitation Village was named to honor the memory of Eran Almog, the late son and guiding light of founders Didi and Major General (Res.) Doron Almog. In addition to caring for and empowering more than 300 residents and special education students with severe disabilities, the expansive and progressive village pioneers cutting-edge therapeutic and recovery services for anyone touched by disability, cultivates empathy and ac...2023-12-0130 minThe SparkDesigning the FutureIn this episode of the Spark, Dr. Weiss is joined by Bornblum's Design Thinking experts Mary Beth Beeber and Samantha Schmidt.They talk about the 40% drop in empathy among young people, how Bornblum students expanded the chicken coop through a Design Thinking project, the creation of the Design Lab, how Design Thinking aligns with Judaism, and the Bornblum Middle Capstone Project.2023-11-2021 minThe SparkRallying for IsraelIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss is joined by five Bornblum faculty members—Rinat Kremer, Charna Schubert, Amy Goldkin, Michelle Johnson, and Stephanie Osher—to talk about their experience at the Rally for Israel in Washington, D.C.They talked about the importance of showing up in support of Israel, the impact of being around over 300,000 supporters, and the beauty of connection.2023-11-1724 minThe SparkThe Family HistorianIn this entertaining episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss is joined by Jessica Greenberg—Bornblum alum and daughter to Bornblum art teacher, Paula Greenberg—who is a self-proclaimed family historian who has researched the life of her fascinating grandfather.When presented with two bound volumes with hundreds of letters written by her grandfather between 1942 and 1946, Jessica began a journey of exploration to find out more about her grandfather who was stationed in Berlin, Germany, during World War II. She tells the story of how her grandfather got a bombed-out synagogue up and running and how he helped thou...2023-11-1027 minThe SparkHow to Be Civil with Rabbi Charles SavenorIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss had the honor of sitting down with Rabbi Charles Savenor, the Executive Director of Civic Spirit. This summer, three Bornblum faculty members—Michal Almalem, Stephanie Osher, and Cindy VanGunda—attended The Summer Institute to learn how to integrate civics into lessons. They talk about how teachers can use civics to teach students how to dialogue and debate, why Civic Spirit took teachers to see the musical Hamilton, why Charles became a rabbi, and ways to tell America's complex story. 2023-11-0217 minThe SparkChaos on College Campuses with Bornblum AlumniIn this eye-opening episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss gathered four unique perspectives and Bornblum alumni from college campuses across the nation: Seth Taub, a freshman at Susquehanna University; Alex Fogelman, a senior at Tulane University; Sarah Boxer, a second-year law student at Harvard Law School; and Isaac Ostrow, a Student Life Associate at Columbia Barnard Hillel.Through candid conversations, they shared their personal journeys and insights into how the Israel-Hamas war and the increase in anti-Semitism have affected them on campus. These voices explored the challenges of discussing these sensitive topics on campus, navigating the difference...2023-10-2744 minThe SparkStanding with Israel with Bornblum's Israeli FacultyIn this powerful episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sat down with Bornblum's Israeli faculty—Sapir Pinto, Amir Sharabi, Michal Almalem, Rinat Kremer, and Maya Sharabi—to hear updates about their family and friends who are in the midst of war in Israel.2023-10-1225 minThe SparkStarting from the Beginning with Rabbi Akiva WeisingerOn this week’s episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss is joined by Rabbi Akiva Weisinger—one of Bornblum Middle's Jewish Studies teachers—who runs a successful podcast and blog about Jewish identity called Misfit Torah.They talk about happiness involving Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, how he teaches Torah through a different lens each and every year, and his experience of professional development with the Rabbi Johnathan Sacks Legacy for experience on Torah-related curriculum.2023-10-0519 minThe SparkGetting to Know Julie GoldsteinOn this week’s episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss is joined by Julie Goldstein—Bornblum's new Director of Admissions & Parent Engagement. A lifelong Memphian, Julie has worked in the Memphis Jewish community in a variety of roles. Julie's wealth of experience and talent position her perfectly to help Bornblum continue to grow and thrive. They talk about the reason she enrolled her son into Bornblum, the unique events she's witnessed in Afterschool Activities, and the upcoming Imagination Station event.2023-09-2210 minThe SparkWords of Wisdom with Harry SamuelsOn this week’s episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss is joined by Harry Samuels, writer and Memphis Jewish community figurehead, to talk about what he's learned throughout his astute observations serving the local and even international Jewish community. Interestingly, Harry served as the president of the Memphis Jewish Federation and was nominated by Bert Bornblum. Harry had previously consulted with Bert Bornblum and gave him advice on donating his fund to our school. Harry tells stories from two of his popular books—Beshert: Stories of True Connection and Crossroads: Chance or Destiny?—and gave Dr. Wei...2023-09-0820 minThe SparkLiving like a Leader with Mario HendrixOn this week’s episode of The Spark, we kick off Season 2. Bornblum Jewish Community School’s theme for the 2023 school year is Community. Throughout the year, 8 different keywords will play a central role in how we understand the word community. Each of those eight words is the name of one of our Bornblum Mishpachot, families. This week, our word is Manhigut, leadership. Last year at our Eighth Grade Graduation, Dotan Weiss won the Jerome and Evelyn Makowsky Leadership Award. Dotan was not only a leader in our school and in our Jewish community, but so too in t...2023-08-2522 minThe SparkThe Music of Giving with Louise and Jerry SklarIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss sat down with longtime Bornblum supporters and grandparents of alumni, Jerry and Louise Sklar. Jerry wanted to surprise his wife, Louise, with an exceptional birthday gift, so he purchased a Musical Garden for the students at Bornblum!They talk about why they choose to give back to Bornblum, how the school impacted their grandchildren, and their experience seeing the newly-installed Musical Garden.2023-05-1919 minThe SparkEighth Grade in Israel — Part IIIn this episode of The Spark, the Eighth Graders are in the last week of their Israel trip. They reflect on their experiences at the Kotel, Yad Vashem, Har Herzl, Nachlaot, and more. Dr. Weiss also talked with their tour guide, Tuvia. Plus, Michal Almalem, our Jewish Studies Principal, reflects on what it means to see these Eighth Graders in Israel.2023-04-2814 minThe SparkEighth Grade in IsraelIn this episode of The Spark, Dr. Weiss was blessed to have traveled with our Bornblum Eighth Graders as they embarked on their trip to Israel. He was able to ask them questions in real time about their multitude of experiences from visiting Shoham (Memphis's sister city), listening to the siren go off across the land on Yom HaShoah, shopping and eating at Machane Yehuda, praying at the Western Wall, hearing stories at a Bedouin tent, and shouting in the valley in Masada.2023-04-2110 minThe SparkEpisode 16: PesachpaloozaIn this special episode of The Spark, we're having a Pesachpalooza! Dr. Weiss interviewed Bornblum Middle schoolers about their favorite family Pesach traditions (Silly String involved!). We also hear music from Kindergarteners (The Frog Song and Dayenu), Second Graders (Vehi Sheamda), and Third and Fourth Graders (Betzeit Yisrael).2023-03-3108 minThe SparkThe Kollel Guys with Netanel Aronson, Yair Wolicki, and Uriya Ben DavidIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sat down to talk with the three "Kollel Guys" (as we call them) from Torah Mitzion: Netanel Aronson, Yair Wolicki, and Uriya Ben David.Over the past year, they have come to Bornblum weekly to work with classes through songs, d'vrei Torah, games, dances, and activities on Friday mornings and Friday afternoons at Kabbalat Shabbat.They talk about why they chose to come to Memphis, a typical day as a Torah Mitziyon Bachur, their favorite moments at Bornblum, and the most rewarding (and suprising) aspects of working with our students.2023-03-1717 minThe SparkGotta Have Faith with Cindy VanGundaIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sat down to talk with Cindy VanGunda, Fourth Grade Teacher, who has been teaching at Bornblum for ten years. They talk about her working in a Jewish day school as a Christian, what she's learned about the values of Judaism, the unity of religion, and how working at Bornblum has impacted her as a parent.2023-02-2414 minThe SparkCreative Curriculum with Jill CrossIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sat down to talk with Jill Cross, Bornblum's Director of Curriculum & Instruction for the last three years. She pioneered our Design Thinking program which has increased student engagement across the board. They talk about her role as President Elect of Emerging Leaders for the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, her obsession with George Washington, and how she uses a stuffed bunny named Moffat to make history even more exciting for students.2023-02-1717 minThe SparkBig Adult Ideas with Deanna McAlexanderIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down to talk with the amazing and longtime Bornblum teacher, Deanna McAlexander. She started working at Bornblum in 2000 and has 23 years of teaching under her belt. Eighteen years ago, she started teaching Middle School where she has been a mainstay. Currently, she teaches Social Studies and English. They talk about how she breaks down high-level and deep topics for middle schoolers, her role as faculty advisor for the National Junior Honor Society, and the importance of learning how global issues can affect students locally.2023-02-1017 minThe SparkLessons from a Child Psychologist with Dr. Amy MurrellIn this episode, Dr. Weiss had the pleasure of talking about mental health with child psychologist and author, Dr. Amy Murrell. In her long career, Dr. Murrell has researched and developed acceptance and mindfulness-based psychotherapies and has even published a six-part children's book series on mindfulness. Her new book about healing trauma with play activities for both parents and children is coming out soon.They talk about how Dr. Murrell has seen anxiety disorders within children increase over time and why children are having difficulties with face-to-face communications. She gives suggestions and a plan of action on...2023-01-2618 minThe SparkDesigning EmpathyThe week leading up to Design Day students learned about refugees and the refugee experience in both their General Studies and Jewish Studies time. Students were then tasked to create a project or program that would benefit the Refugee Empowerment Program. Here's how our Design Thinking curriculum promotes empathy, brainstorming, prototyping, leadership skills and collaboration.2023-01-2005 minThe SparkMeet My Mentors: Checking in at the Prizmah ConferenceThis week, Dr. Weiss had the pleasure to attend the Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools Conference in Denver, Colorado, where he ran into three amazing leaders who have helped him along his career: Avi Halzel (Head of School/CEO at the Denver Jewish Day School and former Bornblum Head of School), Rabbi Jim Rogozen (Director of the Center for Excellence in Day School Education), and Cheryl Maayan (Head of School at Mirowitz Jewish Community School). In this episode, they talked about the biggest challenges and most exciting opportunities in Jewish day school education.2023-01-1313 minThe SparkThe Energy of Empathy with Rabbi Sarit HorwitzIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down with Rabbi Sarit Horwitz from Beth Sholom Synagogue. They discuss the cultivation of empathy and why it must be a foundation of Judaism. Also, they speculate why levels of empathy have decreased by 40% and how it's led to a mental health crisis. Rabbi Horwitz flips the script and asks Dr. Weiss questions!2023-01-0521 minThe SparkThe Philosophy of Joy with Maya SharabiIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down with Maya Sharabi, Bornblum’s longest-running Jewish Studies teacher. What was going to be just a one-year visit to the United States from their home in Israel, Maya and her husband Amir Sharabi— Bornblum’s Technology Director and teacher—ended up staying in Memphis to teach and enroll their two sons at Bornblum. They fell in love with the school and community, and 22 years later, they are figureheads here. Maya talks about her teaching philosophy of seeing every student as unique, how Bornblum prepares students to be Jewish leaders, an...2022-12-0813 minThe SparkEpisode 6: Brightened by Bornblum with Ellee BreitIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down with Bornblum alumnae and parent, Ellee Breit, for a conversation about the immeasurable qualities children gain from attending a Jewish day school and the impact of giving back to the Jewish community.Ellee relays her journey through Bornblum from First through Eighth grade, Ridgeway High School, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, then to New York City where she worked as a fabric/print designer, down to Houston, Texas, and then back to Memphis. She talks about her decision to enroll her son Ryan at Bornblum, the enthusiasm and empathy h...2022-12-0116 minThe SparkEpisode 5: Teaching Good with Rabbi Micah GreensteinIn this episode, Dr. Weiss sits down with Temple Israel's Rabbi Micah Greenstein for an enlightening conversation on gratitude, kindness, social justice, and how Bornblum teaches students how to be good humans.Rabbi Greenstein talks about what led him to Memphis 32 years ago, how Memphis Jews can be torch bearers for the betterment of the city, ways to speak out against anti-Semitism, techniques on building trust and relationships, and an exercise he led with surprising results.2022-11-1722 minThe SparkSpeaking on Gratitude Month and SEL with Sally BaerIn this episode, Dr. Weiss speaks with Sally Baer, Bornblum's Director of Student Services, who has been with Bornblum since its inception in 1988. Over the last three years, Sally has spearheaded social-emotional learning, helping students become more self-aware and empathetic toward others. With November being National Gratitude Month, Sally talks with Dr. Weiss about her "Attitude of Gratitude" mission, how Bornblum is weaving gratitude into lessons, and the importance of social-emotional learning.2022-11-0312 minThe SparkIsaac James with Refugee Empowerment Program In this episode, I sit down with Isaac James, the DEI Coordinator with Refugee Empowerment Program, which is one of the phenomenal education programs the 2nd Annual Ride for Education is supporting.Isaac tells his story of being a refugee, how his mother started REP over 20 years ago, the real-life impact of their adult and youth education programs on thousands of students, and how we can all make a difference in the lives of refugees and immigrants.2022-10-2013 minThe SparkEpisode 2: Keeping up with KindergartenersWhat are the Kindergarteners up to? In this episode, I speak to some of our youngest friends at Bornblum, five of our Kindergarteners: Amariyah, Ellie, Parker, Sabe, and Samara. They share with me the story of what the first month of Kindergarten has been like for them at Bornblum. Listen, and enjoy the sounds of these amazing young people.2022-09-2907 minThe SparkEpisode 1: What is a Spark?On the very first episode of Bornblum Jewish Community School's brand new podcast, Daniel R. Weiss, Ed.D., defines what a spark means to him and how sparks are ignited each at Bornblum. He talks about the books he's read over the summer that informed him how to make Bornblum's culture flourish.In the upcoming episodes, he will be interviewing students, faculty, and members of the community with hopes to ignite inspiration and entertainment. Plus, you'll hear stories written and told by our students.2022-09-0803 min
Prizmah Podcasts: Podcasts by Prizmah Center for Jewish Day SchoolsTurning Challenge into Opportunity under COVIDDaniel Weiss, head of the Bornblum Jewish Community School in Memphis, discusses running a school under COVID: adapting to changing needs and conditions of education, new opportunities that may be arising now that will reap benefits later, and holding on to a school's vision and strategic plan.
2020-07-2024 min