Mensch of the Week!

The CBS Preschool is introducing a new tradition of choosing a mensch of the week.

Gan Keshet has been learning about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his importance as a leader for equality and kindness. CBS preschoolers connected what they learned about Dr. King Jr.'s message and vision for a peaceful world with what it means to be a mensch. As we know, a mensch is someone who shows integrity, honor, has a sense of what is right and wrong, cares for others and speaks up for injustice. Dr. King Jr. was the epitome of a mensch.

To help bring Dr. King's words to life, the children were given the opportunity to hear his famous “I Have A Dream” speech and learn about his many accomplishments. The children drew pictures for his birthday and had many wonderful comments to share, such as “He told everyone you can all drive on the same bus.” and “He was a kind person because he wanted equality.”

Gan Keshet teachers then introduced the tradition of choosing the first “Mensch of the Week.” Those who receive the honor of being a Mensch of the Week will be given a special responsibility. This includes being a line leader, taking home the sacred Shabbat Box with all the ritual items and, possibly, adding an entry in the Shabbat journal of their Shabbat experience at home. In addition, the Mensch of the Week will share through images what makes the person special. Each Mensch of the Week will present this to their peers. Reva, Rabbi Russell’s daughter, had the honor of being selected as the first Mensch of the Week and proudly presented her poster to her friends with an image of what she values most: her family!

We look forward to continuing to reinforce Dr. King's beliefs of equality and kindness in the weeks ahead. We are also eager to build the concept of mensch in all of our children.