24-25 Parent Handbook
Everything you need to know about Senesh policies and protocols.
The Senesh Parent Association (PA) is an inclusive and active community of parents and caregivers committed to fostering a vibrant, welcoming environment at Senesh. By building connections across grades, planning mission-aligned events, and celebrating the staff, the PA strengthens our school community. Through various opportunities—like organizing social gatherings, coordinating holiday celebrations, or supporting inclusive initiatives—parents contribute their time and skills to make a meaningful impact and build lasting bonds.
The purpose of the PA is to:
Every parent or guardian of a current Senesh student is automatically a member of the Parent Association. Members are encouraged to actively participate in PA events and activities throughout the school year and every contribution makes a meaningful difference.
Getting involved in the Parent Association is a rewarding experience that benefits both you and the broader Senesh community. Here are a few reasons to consider participating:
The Parent Association is led by dedicated parent volunteers who have demonstrated active engagement in previous years. Leadership roles, such as committee chairs, are filled based on nominations or self-nominations and authorized by the school's leadership. These positions are held for one school year, beginning at the end of the previous year and continuing through the following year.
The PA is organized into several committees, each focusing on specific areas to enrich the Senesh community. Below is a list of our key committees with brief descriptions of their goals and activities:
Co-Chairs: Yana Feldman, Alyssa Hoyt Goal: To build community, connection, and engagement among school parents and families. Activities: Organize and host parent and family gatherings, such as Parent Game Night, Shabbat and Holidays Across Senesh, and the End-of-Year Picnic.
Co-Chairs: Martha Nadell, Miriam Graus Goal: To create a sense of belonging for all members of our community and celebrate the diverse stories and experiences within our school and beyond. Activities: Coordinate and support Affinity Spaces (ex. LGBTQ+, Jews of Color, Multifaith, Sephardi/Mizrahi) formed by parents around shared identities and interests. Support inclusive programming that reflects and uplifts our community’s diversity.
Co-Chairs: Katie Mamia, Jenna Bouchard Goal: To enhance school holiday celebrations by involving parents and showcasing the diversity within our community. Activities: Coordinate parent participation in holiday events within school, such as Rosh Hashanah goodies, Sukkot activity, Hanukkah treats, and the Tu Bishvat Fair. Encourage families with diverse heritages to share their traditions with students.
Co-Chairs: Maya Bodinger, Shira Stone Goal: To express gratitude to our dedicated staff and faculty on behalf of all parents. Activities: Organize staff appreciation events, distribute teacher gifts during Hanukkah and at the end of the school year, and plan special treats and initiatives that help the faculty feel appreciated by the entire parent body.
Co-Chairs: Yoni Hersch, Hagai Kamil Goal: To create a meaningful and engaging celebration that fosters a sense of joy, pride, and connection to Israel for families within the Senesh and broader Brooklyn community. Activities: Plan a family-friendly event that takes place each spring and is open to the entire Brooklyn community! Coordinate with the Director of Partnerships & Community Engagement to involve partner groups and organizations. Promote the event amongst Senesh families and the community at large.