For some, the back to school season means supply lists and trips to Target. For Barkai Yeshivah students, it means turning on barbecue grills. The usual festivities at the annual Barkai Family Fun Night took place, once again, at the home of Lawrence and Sherry Lynn Jemal, Barkai’s gracious hosts.
With the help of Amazing Amusements, SY Grill Guys, and Happy Tales Petting Zoo, what could have been a simple school orientation, transformed into a fun—and 
exhausting—night for parents and children alike. The sky was gray, but the turnout was amazing.
This year, Frances Arking and Rachel Dweck were the chairpersons responsible for Barkai’s fun-filled evening. Also, Barkai Yeshivah PTA President Rachel Novick and President-Elect Rachel Dweck were in attendance to greet the parent body and, of course, look out for potential new PTA moms.
The annual Family Fun Night is just a hint into what community members can expect from the Barkai PTA this year.
“This year, we want to take PTA to a whole new level, making the extra curricular experience for our children truly amazing,” said President Rachel Novick. What strengthens the Barkai experience is that, on some level, every parent is involved.
Assistant Early Childhood Director Heidi Stiel and General Studies Principal, Sara Rosenfeld were also in attendance, along with teachers, trustees, and Board of Trustees President Ricky Cohen, to enjoy and to answer questions about the upcoming school year.
The afternoon was filled with fun and activity for all involved. The infamous bungee jump had kids obsessed. They listened as their ticket numbers were called over the 
loud speaker so they could enjoy other attractions like face painting, paddle boats and refreshments.
As the older children literally bounced around, their younger siblings and new students enjoyed the tranquility of the paddle boats and petting zoo. Parents were able to ask teachers and administrators questions ranging from class placement, to curriculum, to chatting about their summer vacations.
The school year promises to be filled with fun and educational activities for all. This year, Literacy Day will follow a theme of professions. Children will hear stories, do projects and possibly speak with people in different professions.
Barkai’s Book Fair opens up to children of all ages, building a love of books and the newest event, the Winter Family Retreat hopes to be a treat for all. The retreat, which 
takes place December 24 – 26, is a weekend for all Barkai families to spend time together and get to know one another in a relaxed yet inspiring atmosphere.
Also, inspiration is not just for children, Barkai is also introducing adult art classes with Barbara Azizo, Barkai’s art director.
Barkai would like to thank their gracious hosts, Lawrence and Sherry Lynn Jemal, 
who opened up their home to us. Thanks also go to the parent volunteers, David Shemtob and Rena Hamui, for working the front desk. Thanks to Stephanie Sultan for getting the word out with publicity, and to Yvette Beyda for her guidance and for taking care of the balloons.
Of course, nothing could have been accomplished without the help of the volunteers: Ezra Barry, Miriam Barry, Victor Dweck, Kim Hamadani, Sarah Harari, Ruthie Manopla, Sally Saban, Michelle Sabbagh, Bert Shabot, Eli Shalam, Frieda Shalom, and Grace Timsit.
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Nazira Chabbot is a Barkai mother.
