Gratitude for Gann Faculty and Staff: Thanksgiving Message 2023

Dear members of the Gann community, 

At this time of year, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for all of you who contribute so meaningfully to the vibrancy and success of our Gann community. This year, as I approach the holiday season, my gratitude is particularly directed to our teachers. 

The events of October 7 have profoundly impacted Gann and the entire Jewish community in ways none of us could have imagined. Whether teaching Math or Jewish Studies, French or Hebrew language, the past several weeks have brought both an incredible sense of purpose and an additional set of responsibilities for our teachers. Teachers have created new curriculum to help students understand the current and historical context that has led to both the war and the sharp rise in antisemitic tropes pervading social media, provided a safe space as teenagers process their emotions, and are supporting multiple student-led service initiatives. In addition, as part of our new educational absorption program, Bayit@Gann, our teachers have warmly welcomed 8 new Israeli students midway through the semester, with more continuing to enroll.

As Gann teachers contend with their own emotions, personal losses, and concerns about family near and far, they continue to give 100% of themselves. I am in awe of how these professionals support not only students but their parents as well, providing support for entire families. 

As we navigate the challenges our Jewish community faces during the war in Israel, we need your help to take care of our faculty and staff.

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours,

Dr. Dalia Hochman

Head of School