Every Friday at CESJDS, our community comes together for Kabbalat Shabbat—a meaningful pause in the week that grounds us, lifts student voices, and helps us enter Shabbat with intention.

On this episode of the CESJDS Pawdcast, Rabbi Malkus is joined by faculty and students to reflect on how Kab Shab has evolved over the years, how students help shape the experience, and why this weekly gathering continues to reflect the values of our Portrait of a Graduate. From moments of joy to times of reflection, Kabbalat Shabbat remains a space where our community listens, learns, and grows—together.

As part of our 60th Anniversary celebration, Rabbi Malkus sits down with several Hagshama families—alumni who have chosen to return to CESJDS as parents. They reflect on the lasting impact of their own JDS education, the sense of community that continues to shape their lives, and what ultimately led them to entrust the next generation to our school.

Their stories highlight the deep connections, enduring values, and meaningful relationships that make CESJDS feel like home across generations.

In this episode of the CESJDS Pawdcast, Rabbi Malkus sits down with Publications Advisor Jessica Nassau and student editors Ella and Vivi to explore how students lead both The Lion’s Tale and the CESJDS yearbook—from writing bold articles to capturing unforgettable memories.

Learn how our student journalists and editors balance creative freedom, ethical reporting, and school values—while setting a national example for independent school publications.

From JK through Grade 12, discover how CESJDS is cultivating changemakers through hands-on learning, Jewish values like Tikkun Olam, and real-world problem solving. Hear from students, faculty, and special guest Henrik Scheel—creator of Startup Experience—about the impact and evolution of our Social Entrepreneurship program.

Rabbi Mitch Malkus sits down with Dr. Jennifer Newfeld, Middle School Jewish Life Chair, Robbie Shorr ‘13, High School Jewish Life Chair, along with students, Zack M. (Grade 7), Eliana W. (Grade 11), and Josh D. (Grade 11), to explore how the school's Jewish life programming fosters community, celebrates pluralism, and deepens students' connection to their heritage.

In the latest CESJDS Pawdcast, Rabbi Mitch Malkus as he sits down with the Debra Herman Berger Director of Arts Education David Solomon, CESJDS Parent Naomi Gerstenblith, Bee K. (Grade 11), and Skye F. (Grade 12) to discuss the incredible impact of the CESJDS performing arts programming.

In the first CESJDS Pawdcast for the 2024-2025 school year, Head of School Rabbi Mitch Malkus sits down with Lower School PE Teacher and Safety Patrol Coordinator Amy Strong, Lower School Vice Principal and Guidance Counselor Rebecca Prigal, and two fifth grade students Benjy R. and Maya L. to discuss the Lower School Safety Patrol Program, and how it is one of the many ways that CESJDS begins to instill student leadership, citizenship, and responsibility in our students.

CESJDS Head of School Rabbi Malkus sits down with alumni Emily Odesser '09 and Kira Epstein Begal '00, and CESJDS Associate Director of Alumni Relations Benji Shedlo to learn about how the CESJDS k'hillah has extended beyond the classroom and into their personal and professional lives.

In the final PAWdcast for the 2023-2024 school year, Head of School Rabbi Mitch Malkus sits down with the Center for Health and Wellness Co-Directors Rachel Soifer and Melissa Gartner and Health and Wellness Fellow Ellie S. (Grade 10) to discuss our approach to health education and student support.

Head of School Rabbi Mitch Malkus, Bishop McNamara High School (BMHS) President/CEO Dr. John Barnhardt, and students Abby C. (CESJDS Grade 11) and Khadi B. (BMHS Grade 11) discuss how our unique partnership has led to discovering commonalities among our different cultures.