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2023-2024Annual Report
Gray Academy of Jewish Education brings together nearly 500 students and their families to learn, grow andexcel in a warm community environment rooted in Jewish values. The Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education(WBJE) is the trustee of the mission and vision of Gray Academy and the primary policy-making body for theschool.Our Mission, Vision and ValuesMISSIONGray Academy prepares students to reach their full potential as empowered global citizens by providingeducational excellence framed by Jewish identity, community and values.VISIONTo provide an education environment of academic excellence, strong Jewish values, spiritual and physicalwellness, and proud global citizenship.OUR BELIEFS AND VALUESRespectPatienceDiversityLeadershipCommunityידדה דובכתונלבוסתוינוגברתוגיהנמהליהקOUR COMMITMENTSAcademic ExcellenceA Community SchoolFuture LeadershipHealthy LivingIsraelתימדקא תונייטצהיתליהק רפס תיבתידוהי תוהזאירב םייחלארשי
A MessageFrom Our President & Head of School and CEOIn recent school years, the word “resilience” has become an entrenched part of our GrayAcademy vocabulary. Time and again, in the face of ups and downs, our students, staffand families have shown incredible strength and spirit. This year was no exception.3On October 3, after a pandemic-driven pause, we were delighted to welcome 12 students, their principaland two teachers from Danciger High School, our P2G sister school in Northern Israel, to Gray Academy forour first P2G delegation visit since 2019. Nothing could have prepared us, just days later, for the agonizingshock of October 7. The following weeks were focused on caring for the safety, security and emotional well-being of our visitors, students and staff.In a year when safety and security concerns peaked, we are incredibly grateful to the Winnipeg PoliceService, Asper Jewish Community Campus, Jewish Federation of Winnipeg and Jewish Child and FamilyService for their support and care for our students, staff and families. Our parents were also essentialpartners, following revised protocols and understanding the need for children to be cared for in a safe placeevery day.While October 7 cast a shadow on the start of our school year, the spirit of our school community only shonebrighter. With Israel ever-present in our hearts and minds, our days were alive with school pride and Jewishpride.Tefillot for Israel were added to daily our morning routine. Our school-wide “Havdallah for Hope” remindedus of the importance of singing and celebrating together as a community. A new daily “Minyan for Israel”became an afternoon highlight for High School. And we continued to mark milestones and chaggim with joywhen we needed it most.School pride swelled, with the exciting debut of Rocky the Raider, thanks to the vision and passion of ourStudent Council. We proudly hosted Athletics, Debate, Reach for the Top and more. Grade 5 and 6performers shone in Dr. Dolittle, and our Band and Drumline performed four live concerts. We celebratedIsrael with the return of our 47th annual Yom Ha’atzmaut Song Festival and experienced the magic of ourinaugural, student-led “Ben’s Day of Joy.” We were thrilled to celebrate another large Grade 12 graduation inthe new home of Congregation Etz Chayim.
4Through it all, new families joined us from Israel, with more expected next year. A new principal had afabulous first year leading our Elementary. Our faculty began working on a brand-new curriculum that willtransform how we learn Hebrew at school.We are incredibly grateful to our teachers, staff and leadership team for keeping our students safe, caredfor, challenged and inspired every day. We also thank our Gray Academy Parent Association for adding somuch to our year – fun events, hot lunches, special treats and more.Launching our “Future Forward” Strategic Plan (2023-2028) was the result of collaborative work of theleadership team, staff and the Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education (WBJE). Our board was essential insupporting a future forward outlook for our school community and the greater community. This new plan willguide our goals and operations over the coming years, helping to strengthen Gray Academy for futuregenerations.Thank you to the directors, officers and committee members of the WBJE for their dedication and supportduring this challenging year. A special thank you to Bryan Borzykowski, a member of the very first GrayAcademy graduating class in 1998, as he completes his term of exceptional service on our board. Most importantly, we are so proud of our students, who came to school every day ready to learn, eager toparticipate and prouder than ever to be part of a strong Jewish school community. In spite of the hard dayswe faced, we are so grateful for a wonderful school year.Am Yisrael Chai!Lori Binder (‘91)Head of School, Gray AcademyCEO, Winnipeg Board of Jewish EducationSincerely,Josh Weinstein (‘89)President, Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education
Our Accreditation andAffiliationsAs an independent school, Gray Academy is committed to maintaining rigorous academic standards,fostering a warm and inclusive community and pursuing continuous whole-school improvement. Ouraccreditation and network affiliations are vital tools that help us meet these important commitments, as wefocus on the learning, growth and development of every child.5GRAY ACADEMY IS:a beneficiary agency of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg;approved by the Government of Manitoba; we follow the provincial curriculum set by the Department ofEducation for Kindergarten through Grade 12 and all Judaic studies courses are approved for high schoolcredit towards graduation;accredited by Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS), a community of independent schoolsthat meet and exceed rigorous national standards;a member of the Manitoba Federation of Independent Schools (MFIS), the umbrella organization forfunded, non-profit independent schools across the province;a member of Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools, a network that provides professional development,research data and resources for Jewish day schools across North America.
School YearTotal StudentsRetentionNew Students2021-202245893%762022-202346996%662023-2024473*98%782024-2025510**96%103Our EnrollmentOver the last few years, our total enrolment numbers have remained very consistent. The most important storyis our strong retention, which is well above the typical independent school standard of 90%. We have seen aconsistent long-term trend of reduced student attrition (students departing Gray Academy to other schoolsin Winnipeg), along with growth in High School enrolment. Overall, these figures tell us that families whochoose Gray Academy are committed to a long-term, significant investment in Jewish day school educationfor their children.A SNAPSHOT OF ENROLLMENT AND STUDENT RETENTION6* During the school year, this number climbed to 487, as we welcomed temporary studentsfrom Israel who came to Winnipeg to be with family and friends.** At time of publishing this report, with new students continuing to join the Gray Academycommunity for the current school year.
A SNAPSHOT OF WHERE OUR FAMILIES RESIDE7
Our BoardExecutiveJosh Weinstein (‘89), PresidentJonathan Strauss, Vice President Zach Donen (‘14), TreasurerDirectorsCheryl AltmanJen DimermanAyli KleinCindy Lazar (’87)Rabbi Matthew Leibl (’03) Daniel MatzkinMichael WeinsteinEx-OfficioBryan Borzykowski (’98), Past PresidentLori Binder (’91), Head of School and CEOChief Financial OfficerCarlos Benesdra, CPA, CMAWBJE DIRECTORS 2023-20248
AuditZach Donen, ChairDiane Shindleman, Jacob Smolack, Jonathan Strauss, Carlos Benesdra, Lori BinderFinanceZach Donen, Chair Diane Shindleman, Jacob Smolack, Josh Weinstein, Carlos Benesdra, Lori Binder, Janice Brigden/ShaunaBaileyGovernanceBryan Borzykowski, ChairJen Dimerman, Jonathan Strauss, Lori BinderNegotiationsCindy Lazar, ChairJonathan Strauss, Lori BinderWBJE Representative to the Jewish Federation of WinnipegDaniel MatzkinWBJE Representative to the Asper Jewish Community Campus BoardJonathan StraussTHANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICEWBJE COMMITTEES 2023-20249In 2024, Gray Academy was thrilled to nominateBryan Borzykowski for a Jewish Federation ofWinnipeg Shem Tov Award, recognizing volunteerswhose contributions have made a significantimpact on our Jewish community.Bryan was a member of the first graduating classof Gray Academy in 1998 and is now the dad oftwo current Gray Academy students. We areincredibly grateful to Bryan for his volunteerleadership and contributions to our school, as hecompletes his term on the Winnipeg Board ofJewish Education.
Our FinancesThe Finance Committee remained dedicated to ensuring financial stability andsustainability throughout the 2023-24 school year. We are pleased to report that, despitehaving budgeted for a deficit of $305,175, we ended our year with a shortfall of $57,650,a fraction of the amount we had anticipated. We had budgeted for this deficit to maintainour strong commitment to affordability without compromising our educational prgrammingor student experiences. We continued to work towards our financial sustainability goals, while adhering to Canadian AccreditedIndependent Schools’ (CAIS) Financial Standards. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone on the Financeand Audit Committees for their time and expertise.FundraisingThanks to the continued growth of our fundraising efforts and generosity of our community, we saw asubstantial year-over-year increase in direct donations to Gray Academy. We extend our sincerest gratitudeto everyone who contributed.Provincial FundingWe appreciate the funding we continue to receive from the Province of Manitoba. We are incrediblyfortunate that our government maintains its commitment to providing choice for Manitoba families bysupporting independent schools. Community SupportWe are deeply grateful for the support we received in 2023-24 from the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg(JFW). These essential funds are specifically allocated to our needs-based Bursary Assistance program,enabling more families to access Jewish education for their children. Additionally, we appreciate the grants we received from the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba. Through grantsfor programs and physical improvements, we have been able to maintain and enhance programming andsupport for our families. AuditThe WBJE financial statements included in this report have been audited by Booke and Partners.AJCC Licence AgreementWe continue to operate under an Asper Jewish Community Campus licence agreement that expired in 2017.Efforts to finalize a new agreement have been ongoing throughout the year.PREPARED BY ZACHARY DONEN, TREASURER10
11Statement of Financial ActivitiesThe school’s primary sources of revenue are parental contributions, provincial grants, and the JFW allocation.In 2023-24, we saw a modest uptick in total Parental Contribution dollars. At the same time, our budget wasadjusted to compensate for a 15% reduction in our JFW allocation.Balance SheetNet assets for the year were $406,860, representing the balance in the equipment ($79,346), operating($58,104), and reserve ($269,410) funds.
Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education Inc.Summarized Financial StatementsJune 30, 2024
ContentsStatement of Financial PositionStatement of Financial ActivitiesStatement of Changes in Fund BalancesNote to the Summarized Financial StatementsReport of the Independent Auditors on the Summarized Financial Statements 12345Page
200 - 900 Lorimer BoulevardWinnipeg, Manitoba R3P 2V4(204) 284-7060Fax: (204) 284-7105www.bookeandpartners.caTel: Report of the Independent Auditors on the Summarized Financial StatementsWinnipeg, CanadaOctober 30, 2024To the Directors ofWinnipeg Board of Jewish Education Inc.Opinion The accompanying summarized financial statements, which comprise the statement of financialposition as at June 30, 2024, the statements of financial activities and changes in fund balances for the yearthen ended, and related note, are derived from the audited financial statements of Winnipeg Board of JewishEducation Inc. for the year ended June 30, 2024.Management's Responsibility for the Summarized Financial StatementsManagement is responsible for the preparation of the summarized financial statements on the basisdescribed in Note 1. Chartered Professional AccountantsSummarized Financial Statements The summarized financial statements do not contain all the disclosuresrequired by Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations. Reading the summarizedfinancial statements and the auditor's report thereon, therefore, is not a substitute for reading the auditedfinancial statements and the auditor's report thereon.The Audited Financial Statements and Our Report ThereonWe expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the audited financial statements in our report dated October30, 2024.Auditors' Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the summarized financialstatements are a fair summary of the audited financial statements based on our procedures, which wereconducted in accordance with Canadian Auditing Standard (CAS) 810, "Engagements to Report on SummaryFinancial Statem ents".In our opinion, the summarized financial statements are a fair summary of the audited financialstatements, on the basis described in Note 1.
Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education Inc.Statement of Financial ActivitiesYear Ended June 30ExpensesEducationOfficeStudent programs Deficiency of revenuesover expenses$4,653,5813,600,672974,191101,3544,676,217RevenuesParental contributionsJunior Kindergarten programGrantsProvince of Manitoba$ -209,355 - instruction- Safe Schools andspecial education2,731,606132,86325,320 - curricular materials Jewish Federation of Winnipeg - regular- administrative- resource centre825,000-30,000 Jewish Foundation of Manitoba 186,415201,132DonationsInternational student program - net 30,638112,329168,923Interest & miscellaneousStudent feesSecular(22,636) $-----------3,823,2103,858,2242,936,510854,14567,569$ 3,823,210-Religious(35,014)$186,415201,132$ 3,823,210209,3552,731,6068,476,7916,537,1821,828,336168,9238,534,441132,86325,32030,638112,329168,923825,000-30,000(57,650)2024Combined$151,461115,881$ 3,609,768156,0332,658,6908,252,3096,239,6741,832,033205,7628,277,469144,71525,800974,00090,00040,00012,05668,143205,7622023Combined(25,160)The complete financial statements, including notes to the financial statements and the independent auditors'report, are available upon request by contacting the organization's office.
Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education Inc.Statement of Changes in Fund BalancesYear Ended June 30Balance, end of year Deficiency of revenuesover expensesInterfund transfers Balance, beginning of year $$62,57379,346(13,520)30,293Equipm entFund$$ 132,52758,104(44,130)(30,293)OperatingFund--$ 269,410$ 269,410ReserveFund$ 464,510$ 406,860(57,650)-2024Total$ 489,670$ 464,510(25,160)-2023TotalThe complete financial statements, including notes to the financial statements and the independent auditors'report, are available upon request by contacting the organization's office.
Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education Inc.Statement of Financial PositionJune 30AssetsCurrentCashReceivablesPrepaidsFund BalancesEquipm entOperatingReserve Approved by the BoardLong-term investmentProperty and equipmentLiabilitiesCurrentPayables and accrualsDeferred revenueDeferred contributionsDeferred contributions for capital assets Director373,641406,8602,319,167$ 2,430,9591,650,4582,024,099$ 2,430,959$ 1,732,098546,12040,94921,34290,450$ 1,178,367414,48057,61179,34658,104269,4102024 Director127,676464,510$ 2,453,185$ 2,453,1852,335,543$ 1,258,002466,870136,1271,860,9991,988,675$ 1,668,533640,66726,34320,39397,24962,573132,527269,4102023The complete financial statements, including notes to the financial statements and the independent auditors'report, are available upon request by contacting the organization's office.
Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education Inc.Note to the Summarized Financial StatementsJune 30, 20241. Basis of preparationThe complete financial statements, including notes to the financial statements and theindependent auditors' report, are available upon request by contacting the organization's office.a)The summarized financial statements include the major totals and subtotals from the relatedcomplete financial statements dealing with matters having a pervasive or otherwise significanteffect on the summarized financial statements.The summarized financial statements have been prepared from the audited financial statementsfor the year ended June 30, 2024 on the following basis:
At Gray Academy, caring for children is at the centre of everything we do. Thiscommitment begins with our team of dedicated teachers and educational staff. We areincredibly grateful for their hard work, professionalism, dedication and passion in and outof the classroom.Our Faculty & StaffLori Binder (’91), Head of School and CEOTracy White, High School PrincipalHeather Micflikier, Elementary PrincipalRonit Amihude (‘93), Director of Learning and InnovationSkye Kneller (‘09), Director of Advancement and Alumni RelationsAndrea Ritter, Director of Marketing and CommunicationsLEADERSHIP 2023-2024 19A NEW ELEMENTARY PRINCIPALIn September 2023, Heather Micflikier began her new role asElementary School Principal, following several years in the role ofStudent Support Services Coordinator.Since joining Gray Academy in 2018, Heather has been a teacher,mentor and caring support for our students, staff and families. She isdeeply committed to ensuring every student has opportunities to thriveand grow. In her current role, Heather is an exceptional support forparents, sharing her expertise in childhood learning and developthroughout their Elementary learning journey, from Junior Kindergartenthrough Grade 6.Heather attended Torah and Joseph Wolinsky Collegiate and is aproud parent of two Gray Academy students.At the end of the school year, faculty andstaff gathered to celebrate and bid all thebest to (left to right): Janice Brigden, Senior AccountantAngela Northam, SecretaryDr. Sheppy Coodin, High School TeacherThank you for your many years of dedication!MAZEL TOV ON YOUR RETIREMENT!
OUR 2023-2024 FACULTY AND STAFFKevin AbrahamsShlomo AravaShauna BaileyMatthew BarnesRachel BazovIsaac BellanCarlos BenesdraLiz BilykMichal BerenshteynGil Binnun (‘12)Nicole BochLisa BoroditskyAmy Brawerman (’10)Janice BrigdenAlexandra BroitmanRachel Brown (’96)Noah ChochinovRachel CollinsSheppy Coodin (’82)Anna CorneHeidi CrowleyDale Diamond-BurchukDiksha DikshaJudy DoctoroffMicah DoerksenErica DorfmanJoyce DouglasCarlin DuncanJoanna EbnerAna EsterinLainie Filkow (’95)Rietta FloomChris GarroniNatalie GevaNick GoszerPatricia HamelinKevin HammellMadison HansonDavid HasselfieldArdith Henoch (’91)Maddie IngramDebbie JacksonJamie KaganAndrew Kaplan (’98)Ronit KantarzhiSharona KravitzAleksandra Kroitor (’11)Lindsey LeipsicNadine Linder (’80)Nancy MargolisDanielle Miller (’02)Na’ama Miller (’85)Erin Mitchell KatzLindsay KerrMarcelo MohadebSilvina MohadebGraham NeyedleyHarel NisanovAngela NorthamShelley Oman (’80)Candace PodaimaHayley RewaldSari Ripstein (‘11)20Marina RismanRose RosyatiNaama Samphir (’94)Simone ShalevAvigal ShamilovAlexa ShapiroSharon SmilovitzTatyana SmolyaninovNata SpigelmanKyra SwartzLauren Tennenhouse (’06)Michelle TesslerSharon TzidonDavid VamosRon van der HooftIra VerkhlinGabi Winestock (’07)Samantha ZimbergTracy Zimmerman
Our StrategyIn 2024, we launched a new five-year Strategic Plan. The direction outlined in our latestStrategic Plan is the culmination of a year-long consultative process that included input fromthe board, senior leadership, faculty, staff, parents and students.21Click here to view a digital copy of our Strategic Plan.
22As Winnipeg’s only Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 Jewish day school, Gray Academy’s value proposition istotally unique in our community. In this new plan, we remain focused on upholding our foundation ofCommunity, Jewish Identity and Wellbeing, while we forge forward with three new strategic goals.We are committing to Define, Enhance and Sustain educational and operational excellence while nurturingthe whole child, helping each individual develop the tools to become their best self academically, socially,emotionally and Jewishly.FUTURE FORWARD: תומדקתה Our latest Strategic Plan builds on our established strengths and outlines strategies formeeting the evolving needs of students in a rapidly changing world.Based on our strong, established foundation of community, Jewish identity and wellbeing, our new StrategicPlan provides the framework for three key goals over the next five years:1. Define – define and align on what future-forward education at Gray Academy entails.2. Enhance – expand and enrich student learning, experiences, choices and programming to supportwellbeing.3. Sustain – strengthen student recruitment, advancement, alumni engagement, financial stability andgrowth.
Our Commitment to IsraelOn joyful days and in the most challenging times, Gray Academy stands unequivocally andwholeheartedly with Israel. This is one of our key commitments, as a Jewish community dayschool.23On October 7, 2023, we witnessed the most devastating loss of civilian Jewish lives in Israel’s history. In thedifficult days since, we have continued to pray daily for peace and the safety and well-being of all thepeople of Israel, especially those who remain in captivity and members of the Israel Defense Force,including Gray Academy graduates who have served.Over the past year, our connections to Israel have remained at the forefront of daily life at Gray Academy.Outside our building, the Israeli flag flies proudly beside the Canadian maple leaf. In our classrooms, webegin every morning with both O Canada and Hatikva. Our walls are alive with Israeli artwork. When wecelebrate, Israeli music fills the air.Hebrew is spoken and studied daily in every grade, from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. As studentsadvance in their studies, they learn more and more about the richness of Israel’s people, culture, geography,history and – at the right stage – about the political and social complexities of our Jewish homeland.Each year, our tzedaka initiatives include funds for the land and people of Israel. In 2023-24, our effortswere focused largely on the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s Israel Emergency Fund. We also welcomed 14temporary students who came to Winnipeg to be with family and friends at an extremely difficult time.י ַח ל ֵא ָר ְׂשִי ם ַע
Our Commitment to P2GSince 1997, Gray Academy has had the privilege of participating in the Partnership 2gether(P2G) learning Israel exchange program, thanks to the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg. OnFriday, October 6, 2023, visiting Grade 12 students and faculty from Danciger High School,our sister high school in Kiryat Shmona, Israel, danced with Gray Academy students inadvance of Simchat Torah. In the early morning hours of October 7, our world and our P2Grelationship was forever changed.Of the dozens of P2G exchange visits between Danciger and Gray Academy students, this was one in whichpeer-to-peer connection, friendship and support, proved invaluable, not only in helping each other throughan incredibly dark time but also in strengthening relationships between our school and community with Israel.Unable to return to Israel as planned, our visitors spent an additional six days in Winnipeg. Our staff, students,families and community stepped forward to comfort and care for our guests throughout their unexpectedlyextended stay. Once home, Danciger students and staff were promptly evacuated from their homes andhave been away from their school and their city every since.Over the ensuing months, we have remained in close contact with our P2G friends, sending messages of loveand support and tzedaka to help Danciger’s Class of 2024 have a meaningful Grad celebration in the midstof unfathomably difficult times.Residents of Kiryat Shmona are still unable to return home, and Gray Academy students were unable to travelto Israel in the spring of 2024 for the second half of our exchange. We look forward to the day when we canresume this invaluable learning program and keep the incredible relationships we have built at the forefront.24Click here see the messageswe sent to our P2G friend inthe Spring
Our Generous SupportersALLOCATIONS, GRANTS & GIFTSWe are incredibly grateful to the organizations and individuals who supported GrayAcademy during the 2023-2024 school year and throughout our 27 year history. We areexcited to continue strengthening connections with our graduates, parents, grandparents,donors and supporters by creating more opportunities for community and Alumniengagement.As one of the 12 beneficiary agencies of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg (JFW), Gray Academy has reliedon funds from the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s annual Combined Jewish Appeal campaign to keep Jewishday school education financially accessible for families. For 2023-24, we received $825,000 for GrayAcademy and $30,000 for the Kaufman Silverberg Library from JFW, thanks to generous donations to JFW’sannual Combined Jewish Appeal campaign. At the heart of Gray Academy’s long-standing relationship with the JFW is a shared commitment to providingan accessible path to meaningful Jewish learning. Nearly 60 per cent of Gray Academy families require somelevel of bursary assistance. One hundred per cent of the school’s annual allocation from JFW goes toward ourBursary Assistance program and to ensure our Kaufman Silverberg Library remains a vibrant resource for ourcommunity. Combined Jewish Appeal Designated Gifts We are very grateful for the designated gifts received for the 2023-2024 school year:Gail Asper & Michael Paterson - $19,000*Sheree Walder Morantz & Richard Morantz - $17,000 (EAL Program support)Mira & Matthew Narvey - $6,000 (Ice Rink Operations)Marla, Adam, Ethan & Annie Levene - $2,500 (25th Anniversary Celebration)Silver Family - $2,500*Roz & Marty Greenfeld - $1,000 (Roz and Marty Greenfeld Award to a Grade 12 graduate)Mark Breslauer - $40**Allocated to Bursary Assistance25
Disbursements through the JFMEach year, Gray Academy receives disbursements from a broad range of funds held at theJFM. We gratefully acknowledge the additional dollars disbursed to the school in 2023-24. NEW FUND: Donen 4 Family Fund (Jessica, Josh, Zach & Adam) $1,800Grosberg Family Fund In support of the enhancement to Student Support Services through an Educational Assistant$25,000 Mona & David Rich Family FundIn support of the ongoing development of the Gray Academy-Tough Duck Community Ice Rink$30,100Response to Immediate Needs for Additional Bursary Assistance for Gray Academy FamiliesIsrael & Babs Asper Charitable Fund - $22, 766Anonymous - $20,674Israel and Maylene Ludwig Fund - $1,560Gray Academy Endowment Fund Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Gray Academy Endowment Fund last year.We are thrilled to participate in the BERVIN Incentive Program with a matching ratio of 1:5, which means thatthese gifts impact our students even more. Our balance at December 31, 2023 was $366,537.We also benefitted greatly from the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba’s Million Dollar Match program, whichmatched all new contributions to our Endowment in the Spring of 2024.Gray Academy Debating and Public Speaking FundOur Debate and Public speaking program remained one of the top programs in Canada, with studentscompeting and achieving excellence locally, nationally and internationally.Our balance at December 31, 2023 was $161,754.Jewish Foundation of Manitoba Grants - Received in October 2023 and March 2024JET Fund - Grade 5 & 6 Furnishings To Support All Learners - $47,000JET Fund - Capital Furnishings for Faculty & Staff - $28,000JET Fund - CFO Transition - $55,000JET Fund - Multifunction Commercial Copier - $15,000Strengthening Jewish Spirituality Through T'fillah - $12,500Registration & Financial Processing Program - $60,000Hebrew Ulpan Program - $5,000Improving Literacy Through The Science of Reading - $10,000Community Library Acquisitions (Multi-Year) - $28,18026
We thank the Asper Foundation for itscontinued support of Gray Academy’sDebate and Public Speaking program.We are proud to celebrate this supportannually by hosting the Asper CupDebate Tournament at our school.Human Rights and HolocaustStudies Trip to Washington, DCIn September 2023, our Class of 2024took their Grade 12 Human Rights andHolocaust Education trip to Washington,DC. We thank the Asper Foundation forsupporting this program since 1997, infulfillment of the vision of Izzy Asper, z”l. 27Debating and Public SpeakingProgram - Asper Cup
DIRECT DONATIONS TO GRAY ACADEMY $5,000 - $10,000 The Laing Family Foundation$1,000-$4,999Daniel, Baillie, Lyla, Asher & Miles ChisickLesley KovenKozlowich Family Allison, Jonathan, Nathan & Noah Strauss$250-$999 Barry BenderLori BinderBruce CaplanMaxa & Cliff ChisickThe Farber FamilyBarbara & David GoldenbergKoplovich FamilyJonathon & Karly Leipsic Matzkin FamilyNejmark FamilyTali, Veronica & Javier NudlerSinger-Abrams FamilySpartans GymnasticsSterling Periodontics - Dr. Gary FinklemanThe Wang FamilyAnonymous x 6Please excuse any errors or omissions28Click here to learn more about Giving to Gray Academy!
DIRECT DONATIONS TO GRAY ACADEMY, CONT’D$101-$249 BagelsmithBB CampNicole BochJosh & Laura Chisick Morrie Elfenbein - In honour of Tyson Elfenbein’s Bar MitzvahJoshua & Sophia EndlemanSusan FeldmanGriner FamilyHaMorah Joyce & Jeff KerrBryan Klein & Maureen PollockLeGoff FamilyLinden Ridge Orthodontics - Dr. Rana ShenkarowMednikov FamilySelin & Ilyas MizrahiMyers LLPEinat PazPfeffer FamilySherri Silverman & Family - In honour of Karen Leipsic’s birthdaySusie, Jason, Maddy & Emily TapperSaul TargownikEmerson & Brooks VickarWeinstein FamilyWilk FamilyAnonymous x2Up to $100 Faren & Keevin BernsteinEthan & Daniel BlinderBokser FamilyBoroditsky FamilyRob Dalgliesh & Daniel FriedmanTali and Julian FritzlerGilbert Family Goldschlager FamilyHuang FamilyHudobin FamilyPlease excuse any errors or omissions29Jing FamilyTracy KasnerKohn FamilyKravetsky FamilySamantha Lapedus & Rowan ReichFanny Levy & Gustavo ZentnerRonen Mass & FamilyMeschler FamilyHarvey Millstone-Sawyer & FamilyOlga MoscalenkovPeel FamilyPerlov FamilySarpong FamilyMara & Shane Silver, Tyler, Mattie, and RyderAllison, Jonathan, Nathan & Noah StraussThompson FamilyMaria TretyakovaZhuravskyi FamilyFour Anonymous Donors
30Enrollment GiftsThank you to the families who chose to give a gift to Gray Academy at (re-)enrollment time. Total gifts of$62,512 during 2024-25 enrollment will be used to enhance programming throughout the schoolTribute CardsThank you to everyone who recognized joyous milestones andoffered heartfelt condolences through the Kaufman SilverbergResource Centre and Winnipeg Board of Jewish Education TributeCard programs. Click here to access Gray Academy TributeCards.Todah rabah to all those who supported our 2023-24 Elementary musical, Dr. Dolittle Jr.Sponsorships totalling $7,944.62 went a long way to supporting a spectacular production and experiencefor our students. Elementary Musical SponsorsWish of the WeekIn 2023-24, we introduced a Wish of the Week, giving theGray Academy opportunities to support items on our wish list. From financial donations for weekly Shabbat Challah,Chanukah sufganiyot and Purim treats to LEGO donations,contributions of Pre-Loved uniforms and tins for the JCFSFood Pantry bin, our Wish of the Week opened new avenuesfor fundraising and engagement in tzedaka.In addition to collecting needed items, this new weeklyinitiative brought in 79 financial gifts from 56 donors,representing $7,478.
LEGO IN OUR LIBRARYWith support from donors and expertise from our school community, we were thrilled to officiallylaunch an exciting new feature in our Kaufman Silverberg Library - our brand-new LEGO Wall!31For years, visitors have been able to enjoy quiet play with LEGO building bricks in our library. Now,Gray Academy students and other library patrons can enjoy this vibrant new feature. Thank you to everyone who helped bring our LEGO wall to life:The Gray Academy Parent Association (GAPA) for sponsoring the LEGO wall.Gray Academy dad and WBJE member Daniel Matzkin and his family for their time and expertise.Josh & Laura Chisick and family for dreaming up the idea and sponsoring its development.The AJCC maintenance crew for all their help putting the feature together.Librarian Ana Esterin and the library team for taking such good care of this new space.Our Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations, Skye Kneller, for all the hard work and LEGOlove she put into bringing this project to fruition.
Click here to to see the video ofRocky’s big Gray Academy debut!!A BEAR IS BORN!He's a lean, mean, #18. He's the furriest member of our Raiders team! Lastyear, students said “shalom” to Rocky the Raider, our new official mascot!32Years ago, a Gray Academy student athlete gave coach JamieKagan, a small stuffed bear named Rocky in a Raiders jersey. The plush pal became a mini mascot, travelling with Raiders teamsto countless tournaments. Last year, he inspired Student Council tospark school spirit with a larger-than-life model.Thanks to the generosity of a donor and the vision of last year’sStudent Council, our new Rocky the Raider was met with excitedcheers and plenty of big bear hugs, as he made his grand GrayAcademy debut in January 2024 at our annual Raiders Pep Rally.Since then, Rocky has continued to delight students, friends andfans at many school and community events.
IN MEMORY OF BEN BEN CHIMOL, Z’LThe Gray Academy community continues to mourn the loss of Grade 12 student Ben BenChimol, z"l, who passed away in December 2022 following a courageous battle withcancer. The school worked closely with Ben's family to formally honour Ben's memory, hislove of life and the positive impact he had on his classmates, teachers, family and friends.33In March 2023, just days before what would have been Ben’s 18th birthday, we proudly launched the Ben BenChimol (z’l) Simchat Chayim Fund within the Gray Academy Endowment at the Jewish Foundation ofManitoba. Dollars earned annually are used for school programs that bring joy to others and celebrate life,as Ben always did.Today, the Ben Ben Chimol (Z’L) Simchat Chayim Fund sits at nearly $8,000.Click here to learn more about the Ben Ben Chimol (Z’L) Simchat Chayim Fund.
Click here to see highlights from Ben’s Day of Joy at Gray Academy34We were especially delighted to have many of Ben’s friends on hand to celebrate, along with Ben’s parents,Tatyana and David, and his sister, Lihi, then in Grade 8, to say a few words on behalf of the Ben Chimolfamily.We were very proud of our student leaders who coordinated Ben’s Day of Joy, including securing sponsorshipfrom several generous supporters.Plans are underway for our second annual Ben’s Day of Joy in the spring of 2025.OUR INAUGURAL “BEN’S DAY OF JOY”In June 2024, we celebrated our first Ben’s Day of Joy at school, with a bbq, games, facepainting, a schoolwide with four-legged friends and much more. We planted a tree in ourgarden for Ben and honoured his memory with joy and fun for everyone.
IN MEMORY OF BEN HECHTER, Z’LIn 2022, Gray Academy dad Ben Hechter lost his courageous battle withcancer. To honour his memory, his family established the BENevolent Fund at theJewish Foundation of Manitoba.35The BENevolent Fund provides support to children facing the loss or illness of a parent. This fundoffers flexibility to meet the unique needs of each family, including providing meals, assistingwith Gray Academy tuition, sponsoring a child’s school trips, or otherwise easing the burdenduring the most difficult times. Housed at the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, The BENevolentFun - In Memory of Ben Hechter currently totals $11,845.GIFTS TO THE KAUFMAN SILVERBERG LIBRARYIn 2023-24, Tribute Cards purchased through our Kaufman Silverberg Library brought in$745 in funds. In addition, our Sefer Shelanu Birthday Book Club raised $396 from 22participants. For a minimum $18 donation, a book was purchased for the library in eachSefer Shelanu Book Club member’s name for all children to enjoy.Click here to learn more about the Kaufman Silverberg Library.
CELEBRATING MILESTONES, CREATING MEMORIES Thank you to our families who enriched our students' experiences and celebrations bysupporting our milestone programs.Kindergarten Family ShabbatFarber FamilyWeinstein FamilyAnonymousGrade 1 Chaggigat Ha SiddurNejmark FamilyAdam, Sam, Benny & Goldie PollockGrade 2 Chaggigat HaTorah AnonymousDaniel, Baillie, Lyla, Asher and Miles ChisickMatzkin FamilyLauren Goldsman-Narvey & Michael NarveyJosh & Laura ChisickGrade 3 Virtual Voyage to Israel Anonymous x2Pfeffer FamilyGrade 6 CelebrationAnonymousMeagan & Aaron Dlot 36Korenblit familyMarli Leibl & Josh Vickar and familyThe Feldman FamilyThe Vrublevsky FamilyThe Zhuravskyi FamilyBarbara & David GoldenbergKozlowich FamilyYana ShtainbergGrade 12 GraduationAnonymousBayview ConstructionBokser FamilyLinden Ridge Orthodontics - Dr. Rana ShenkarowM.L. Signatures Inc.Motkaluk FamilyJudi Price Rosen & Kevin RosenKara Anne Yaren and Sean ShoreVickar Automotive Group
Gray Academy parents are active partners in building an exceptional school community.Our Gray Academy Parent Association (GAPA) organized a broad range of programs forstudents and families, including lunch programs, our annual Fun Fair, teacher and staffappreciation initiatives, fun family events, fundraising activities and more. Thank you to allthe parent volunteers who keep these valued programs running for our students andfamilies.Our Parent AssociationGAPA EXECUTIVE 2023-2024Allison Strauss, PresidentEmily Nozick, Vice PresidentMalka Khalimov, TreasurerSima Feuer & Sharon GoldenbergPre-Loved Uniform SalesAllison Strauss & Ayli KleinElementary Lunch ProgramSusie Freedman Tapper & Heather SilverHigh School Lunch ProgramFanny Levy, Fundraising37
In 2024, we celebrated another one of the largest graduating classes in Gray Academy’shistory. Our 41 graduates, their parents and Gray Academy staff were aglow with pride, asthe Class of 2024 completed the final steps in their Gray Academy learning journey withEthical Wills, Grad Shabbat, Grad-Staff Luncheon, Time Capsule, Progressive Dinner,Convocation and a beautiful Safe Grad-Dinner Dance. Our Class of 202438
39With a new Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations on board, Gray Academy grewand strengthened connections with graduates. We welcomed several Alumni to the schoolfor special events and made a point of noting Alumni achievements in their respectivecommunities.Our AlumniAuthor Brayden Bernstein (‘10) launched his new children’s book, The Great Mensch,in our Library Alumni in the community spotlight
40Alumni in the ArtsJudge Jodi Koffman (‘01) presided at our High School Mock TrialAlumni in Israel
Every Gray Academy school year is woven through with meaningful milestone programsthat celebrate student growth, enrich Jewish learning, and build memories that last alifetime. Throughout 2023-24, we were thrilled to welcome families and friends tocelebrate with us.Our MilestonesKindergarten Family Shabbat DinnerJK Family Kabbalat ShabbatGrade 1 Chaggigat HaSiddur Grade 2 Chaggigat HaTorahGrade 4's Got TalentGrade 3 Virtual Voyage to Israel41
Grade 5 Overnight at Camp MassadGrade 7 Outdoor Ed at BB Camp KenoraGrade 6 ShabbatonGrade 6 Year-end Celebration 42Grade 10-12 Retreat Class of 2024 Convolcation
At Gray Academy, students learn and live the vital Jewish values of kindness, tzedaka andtikkun olam by leading and participating in a broad range of activities throughout the year.In 2023-2024, students contributed funds, needed items, creative ideas and collaborativeefforts to help those in need locally and in Israel.Our MitzvotSome of Our 2023-2024 Tzedaka Initiatives:Yom Kippur “Tin for the Bin” Food Drive for Jewish Child and Family ServiceMonthly “Casual Day for a Cause” for a variety of charities, including the Israel Emergency Fund and P2G“Mitzvah Day” making, packaging and delivering meals for Main Street ProjectPesach “Chicken Challenge” for Jewish Family and Child Service“Youth Philanthropy Initiative” donations 43
Arts and creativity are an integral part of integrated learning and expression at GrayAcademy. Last year, our students enjoyed visual arts and music education, along withoptional opportunities to participate in band and drum line, our High School musical andart exhibitions.Our Artistic SideElementary performers wowed the crowd in Dr.Dolittle Jr.Band and Drumline performed four concerts inJanuary and June44Students used their creativity to add colourand beauty to school spaces.Performers demonstrated stunning skills atJugglefest 2024
45After a pandemic-driven pause, we were very excited to host our 47th annual Yom Ha’atzmaut SongFestivalStudents sold their artwork in our GrayGallery, with half the proceeds going to theartist and half to the Israel Emergency FundElementary students researched images of sacredobjects in the archives of the Jewish Heritage Centreof Western Canada, and displayed their work at ourannual Jewish Heritage Art Exhibit.
On the court, the field, the green and the rink, students stayed active, learned new skills,and made new friendships. Thank you to our coaches, Mr. Kagan, Mr. Bellan, Mr. Abrahams,HaMoreh Gil, Mr. Van der Hooft, volunteer coaches, and all the staff, volunteers andparents who cheered on our teams. Go Raiders!Our Sporting Life46
Gray Academy students have many opportunities to explore activities, discover theirtalents, develop skills and bond with peers. Intramurals, arts, field trips, grade-specificactivities, guest speakers and more keep students engaged and learning in and out of theclassroom. In 2023-24, under the leadership and guidance of our Student LifeCoordinators, students enjoyed a host of clubs and activities at lunchtime.Our Learning Outside theClassroom47
One of the important ways Gray Academy students discover and strengthen their Jewishidentity is through joyous celebrations at school. From dancing with “HaMorah Torah” toweekly prayers and songs of Kabbalat Shabbat; from Chanukah lights and dreidls to Purimand the Pesach table; our students found joy in celebrating together as a communitythroughout the school year.Our Celebrations48
In November 2023, still reeling from the shock and grief of October 7, we knew thatcoming together as a school could help us heal. More than 600 students, staff and guestscame together for a student-led Havdallah, a powerful moment to differentiate betweenShabbat rest and a fresh new week of learning.Our Havdallah for Hope48
48Together, we raised our voices in prayer and song, wishing eachother and our P2G friends in Northern Israel a good week, a week ofpeace, a week of hope.
Click here to see a video journey of our 2023-24 school year!
Abe and Fan Simkin CircleA202-123 Doncaster St Winnipeg, MB R3N 2B4204.477.7425www.grayacademy.ca