A Pesach Message From JBHS Head of School Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari

April 16, 2019

Dear Yeshivah of Flatbush Family:

The Seder is infused with questions. Four questions begin the recitation of the  Haggadah. The four sons are categorized by the types of questions they ask or don't ask. Unusual practices - like the removal of the plate before the meal has even begun - are part of the Seder in order to encourage the children at the Seder to ask questions. Rabban Gamliel's explanation of Pesach, matzah and maror are each introduced with the question "Al shum mah?"

The Haggadah sends a clear message: Curiosity and question asking are at the core of good learning. When children or students are lectured, they will often tune out and stop learning. On the other hand, when they are able to create and guide the learning process they will learn better. Education, the Haggadah teaches, is improved by students' engagement in the process of what they learn. This is accomplished by encouraging curiosity and creating a safe environment for asking questions.

Wishing you a happy, healthy and curious Pesah.

Sincerely,
Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari
JBHS Head of School