Brandeis School dedicates playground

In a corner of its sizable Lawrence schoolyard, new play equipment beckon the students of Brandeis School, offering a connection to Israel and longtime supporters of the institution. “This shows the friendship between the families of Brandeis and the families in Israel,” said Brandeis School Rabbi Tomer Grossman.

As clouds revealed spotty rain, students recited the national anthems of the United States and Israel, and educators used the assembly to teach a civics lesson. “President Teddy Roosevelt spoke about the need for playgrounds as far back as 1907. He would be proud of this playground,” said Head of School Alese Gingold.

Alongside tributes to the murdered Fogel family of Itamar, the school also noted Martin Kogan, whose son Larry, 41, contributed $60,000 for the playground. “I was a student here 30 years ago. My father was all about Jewish education. He died before he could become a grandfather,” Kogan said. “It is important for my children to have a Jewish education.” Three of Kogan’s five children attend the school, described by parent Miriam Matathias-Herman as an inclusive Jewish school that indeed includes Conservative and Orthodox families. The school shares its building and yard with Mesivta Rambam, an Orthodox School.

Retired Head of School Dr. Mildred David spoke at the dedication, which also honored her late husband Moe Karash. “My husband was in Palestine when it was British. He was exploring a cave and found weapons, which he gave to the Jewish fighters, helping Israel fight for its independence,” David said.

The ribbon cutting was attended by local rabbis from across the denominational spectrum, and community activists who have family members at the school. “It’s caring and sharing. Caring what happens to our people in Israel and sharing generosity of the parents who make it possible,” said Woodmere resident Asher Matathias, who has two grandchildren at Brandeis.