TCI Newsletter

There’s a happy revolution taking place in the sleepy state of Connecticut, as Jewish life in several independent high schools is growing, and flourishing. At the end of January The Curriculum Initiative (TCI) hosted Jewbilee, its annual gathering of Jewish students, at Choate Rosemary Hall School in Wallingford, CT. More than forty students from twelve schools and another 150 students and educators from Choate attended the keynote address with noted author Bruce Feilor. This gathering, while significant in and of itself, is emblematic of a larger trend. Connecticut is the focus of a major new initiative by TCI.

“Our programming in Connecticut has always been strong,” says Executive Director Eileen Gress, “but now we are more focused, more coordinated, and more consistent.” Last September, Adrien Uretsky joined TCI’s New England Regional Office as a program coordinator. Since then she has focused on developing Jewish clubs, enhancing Jewish programming, and strengthening Jewish life in Connecticut’s independent schools. Uretsky has the experience to make this initiative a success. A 2002 graduate of Clark University, she spent the last two years strengthening Jewish life at MIT Hillel as a Steinhardt Jewish Campus Service Corps Fellow.

Uretsky’s approach has been to learn about the culture of each school through conversations with students. “I find that many students crave opportunities to celebrate their Judaism in a way that is meaningful and fits into their school routine,” says Uretsky. Among the results of TCI’s efforts have been a joint discussion with Miss Porters School and MIT Hillel about being Jewish in college and a Shabbat dinner during Chanukah at Choate. Adrien notes that the Shabbat dinner was particularly exciting. “Earlier this year I led a discussion during lunch. The students were well-intended, but their minds were focused on last minute studying and getting through their lengthy to-do lists. When I came for Shabbat dinner during Chanukah they completely let lose. They ate chicken and latkes, sang songs and played dreidel. It was a great time in a Jewish atmosphere.”

Other schools that TCI works closely with include Loomis Chafee and Taft, where Survivor: Africa winner Ethan Zohn will speak later this spring. He will share how his Jewish values helped him maintain his leading position in the game and influenced his decision to use the prize money to start a charity. “Ethan is a great role model who inspires students to express their Jewish values through their commitments,” comments Uretsky.

At Miss Porter’s school Uretsky worked with students on a structured discussion about Kabbalah and the distinction between pop culture and authentic Judaism. “There is a vibrant network of Jewish students at these schools. Our goal is to support exploration of their Jewish identity.” Gress emphasizes that TCI’s mission has a positive impact on the broader school community as well. “All of the events at these schools are open to the entire student community. That gives Jewish students the ability to share their own religious backgrounds, amidst the diverse cultural and religious life in their schools. That creates pride and mutual understanding.”

Uretsky looks forward to the work ahead. “TCI has been warmly welcomed in the state of Connecticut. It’s rewarding to hear the students ask for more.” The students agree. Following the program at MIT Hillel, a student at Miss Porter’s School told Uretsky, “It was so much fun and a great experience to see how college students continue studying and incorporating Judaism into their lives through their college years. I know the girls had a wonderful time talking to the students! Thanks again for everything that you've done! I’m looking forward to the next program.” Gress, Uretsky, and the whole TCI team are happy to oblige.