Dr. David Rabeeya welcomed a dozen seniors to Exploring Arabic, one of the new electives offered during the second trimester that began this week. Born in Baghdad, Iraq of Sephardic parents, Dr. Rabeeya learned a number of Semitic languages and has written many books on the subject. His master's degree is in Semitic Languages and his PhD is in Arabic.
 
Dr. Rabeeya speaks, writes, and creates poetry and songs in both Arabic and Hebrew and wants to share the language and culture of both peoples. "Arabic is being taught in Israeli schools today, for neighbors must be able to communicate and understand one another if there is to peace in this world," shares Dr. Rabeeya. Class participants agree.



"Many of us in this class will be going to Israel next year," comments Shoval Dorani, and it is important for us to be able to communicate in both Hebrew and Arabic." Ariana Berlin concurs: "While studying in Israel last year, we visited an Arab village. Some of the children could speak rudimentary English, but we could not speak or understand Arabic. Because of this class, we, too, will able to greet the children in Arabic." And Jon Pressman sees other advantages: "It is a great opportunity to take a course that's not usually offered in other schools and it equips us with skills we can use later in life."
 
The students are learning the Arabic alphabet, practicing conversational Arabic, studying history and culture, and discussing current events pertinent to the Middle East. Communication is key to understanding others, to communicate effectively, and to building bridges among peoples. An introduction to Arabic furthers builds this skills for Barrack students who are eager to play a role on the world stage.

"Music is a magical language that is found in all aspects of life," shares Dr. Karin Orenstein, Barrack's new music teacher. This was evident when five girls from the 9th and 10th grades entered Dr. Orenstein's Songwriting elective on the first day of class. The girls embarked on a quest to find the magic within an image, object, event or personal reflection that might inspire a song. Rebecca Dadi, Devra Goldstein, Hannah Kelsen, Maytal Rothschild, and Rosalie Stein found their inspiration and composed the music and the lyrics to an original song--Differences Unite. Each girl wrote her own verse or bridge describing herself and her particular uniqueness. Together, they composed the song's chorus, clearly demonstrating that their premise and song title ring true: differences can unite. The students plan to record their song via a video clip and share it with the school and community.

Building technology skills and exploring the latest software are the focus of two second trimester electives introduced this week: Web Building and Technology: Graphics, Lines and More! taught by Stephanie McHugh, Director of Technology, and Brett Rudolph, Technology Coordinator, respectively.
 
Upper School students working with Mrs. McHugh are learning how to create Web site pages, using sophisticated Dreamweaver software; HTML and Java Script to enhance programming skills; and graphic design and Flash animation to build compelling sites. Two of the juniors studying with Mrs. McHugh have different motivations for enrolling in the course. "Although technology and the computer have always been a part of my life, it wasn't until a few years ago that I wanted to understand how programs work," explains Elias Katz. "This elective interests me because I can use the skills now and in college where I plan to major in computer engineering." Yakir Gola, on the other hand, wants to learn about computers to help with school projects and to assist his Dad. "My father is a small business owner and could put the power of technology to work in his business. I'd like to help him do that."
 
Tenth and eleventh graders working with Mr. Rudolph are learning how to create graphics for both the web and for print. Using Illustrator and Photoshop software they are discovering many ways to manipulate pixels and vectors for fun and for projects.
 
Students are not the only ones putting the power of technology to work. Barrack faculty members across the curriculum, in both the Middle and Upper Schools, are incorporating targeted links, WIKIS, blogs, and video clips into their courses and classrooms, further stimulating dialogue with and among students and strengthening connections to a world of infinite knowledge.

Save the Date! Barrack Hebrew Academy will proudly honor three exemplary leaders in learning, leading and life: Susan Weisgrau, inspirational English teacher; Robin and Steve Katz, communal leaders and philanthropists; and Joshua Landes '80, alumnus, business and Jewish communal leader. The event will be held at Barrack Hebrew Academy on Sunday, March 14. Stay tuned for details.