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September 4, 2026 | 22 Elul 5786 | Candle lighting at 7:31 p.m.
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This message has approximately 1,022 words and will take about 3.5 minutes to read.
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| Like many parents, Rachel and I are spending these days getting ready for the return to school. Between organizing backpacks, reviewing schedules, and hearing our children talk about what's ahead, there's a renewed sense of possibility that comes with this time of year.
As families across British Columbia prepare for the year ahead, there is also encouraging news about Jewish education in Western Canada.
A Strong Foundation
This summer, Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools released its latest Enrollment Landscape Report, tracking Jewish schools across Canada and the United States.
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| Among its most encouraging findings was that enrollment in Jewish day schools across British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba grew by 9% between 2021-22 and 2023-24, three times the Canadian growth rate. These provinces represented just 11% of Canadian day-school enrollment at the beginning of the study, yet accounted for 28% of its growth. |
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| The findings reflect something many of us are already seeing firsthand: families are making Jewish education a priority and choosing to invest in Jewish learning, identity, and community.
Here in British Columbia, we are fortunate to have a strong network of Jewish schools helping shape the next generation, including Vancouver Talmud Torah, Richmond Jewish Day School, King David High School, Tamim Academy of Vancouver, and Kineret Tamim Academy in Victoria. While each school has its own culture and approach, they share something essential: they do far more than educate students. They help build Jewish community.
That impact extends well beyond the classroom. Students build confidence in their Jewish identity, friendships take root, and families find meaningful connections to community. These schools help strengthen the fabric of Jewish life.
Behind that success are the heads of schools, teachers, staff, and volunteer board members who work tirelessly to meet the needs of an ever-evolving school population. As both a parent and a community leader, I am personally humbled by their dedication, commitment, and care for our children and families. Their work is foundational to the strength and future of our community.
The connection to leadership is striking as well. A 2021 study of more than 2,000 North American Jewish communal leaders found that one-third attended Jewish day school through Grade 8. Among younger leaders, that number rose to 44%. Prizmah describes day schools as "anchor institutions" whose impact extends well beyond their students.
We see that here in British Columbia too. Graduates of our Jewish schools are among the volunteers, donors, professionals, educators, and community leaders helping shape Jewish life today.
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| Why Federation Invests
That is why Federation continues to invest in Jewish education, including our commitment of at least $1,000 per student at every Jewish day school across Greater Vancouver, regardless of which school a family chooses. We believe strong schools strengthen the entire community.
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| Outside of school, families, camps, synagogues, youth movements, Israel experiences, and numerous informal learning opportunities all play an important role in shaping Jewish identity and belonging. Together, they create the ecosystem that helps Jewish life thrive.
When I look at the growing number of families choosing Jewish education, I see more than enrollment statistics. I see optimism. I see parents investing in the future. And I see a community that understands the importance of building strong foundations for the generations to come.
More broadly, I see the very idea that sits at the heart of Federation's work: investing today in the Jewish future we want to create together tomorrow.
A Shared Responsibility for Community Safety
As we prepare to welcome Rosh Hashanah and begin the year 5787, many of us will soon gather with family, friends, and community in synagogues, community centres, and Jewish spaces across British Columbia.
The High Holidays are a time to come together in celebration, reflection, and community. As Jewish institutions welcome thousands of people through their doors, community safety remains a shared priority.
Throughout the holiday season, many organizations will have security measures in place, including controlled entrances, registration requirements, identification checks, and trained personnel and volunteers. These measures help ensure our spaces remain safe, welcoming, and accessible to all.
Our message is one of preparedness, awareness, and care for one another, not fear.
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Whether you attend a service, community event, or family gathering this holiday season, there are simple ways each of us can contribute to a safe and welcoming environment:
- Secure your surroundings
- Stay aware
- Plan ahead
We can all play a role in helping keep our community safe and resilient.
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Looking Out for One Another
Security works best when we work together. While professional security measures are an important part of protecting our community, an engaged and attentive community is equally important.
If something concerns you at a synagogue, community centre, or event, notify local security personnel, staff, or volunteers. In an emergency, always call 911. To report suspicious activity, you can reach the Community Security Line at 604-257-5139.
By staying aware, following security procedures, participating in community training opportunities, and looking out for one another, we help ensure that Jewish life remains secure, welcoming, and vibrant across British Columbia.
We are grateful to the volunteers, community leaders, partner organizations, security professionals, and law enforcement agencies who work alongside our institutions to support the safety and well-being of Jewish British Columbians.
Learn, Prepare, Participate
To help our community prepare for the High Holidays, Federation's Community Security Program is offering a series of online webinars open to community members and those working in community institutions across Western Canada.
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Participants will learn:
- Our approach to community security and preparedness.
- Simple, practical steps everyone should be taking.
- How each of us can help keep our community safe and resilient.
We encourage everyone to attend and share these opportunities with family and fellow community members. |
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| As we begin this new school year and prepare for the High Holidays, I am reminded that the future of Jewish life does not happen by accident. It is built through education, leadership, community, and a shared commitment to one another.
When I look at the growing number of families choosing Jewish education, I see confidence in our future and a community investing in the generations to come.
Shabbat shalom,
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Ezra S. Shanken
CEO, Jewish Federation of British Columbia |
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| Donate your empty beverage containers and refunds directly to us! |
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| Have you checked all the upcoming events? Visit our Community Calendar! |
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As we approach the High Holidays, my newest blog reflects on the role of JFBC during times of political intensity and communal debate. It's a reminder that our strength lies in bringing people together, investing in resilience, and supporting the people and institutions that help communities thrive. Read more here.
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