‘Fighting the Flames’ - The 2025 de Toledo State of the School Address

Upon opening this year’s address at our all-school Shabbaton this past week, Mr. Shpall explored an ancient Jewish parable (midrash) of a “palace in flames” which describes how our patriarch Abraham wondered why the beautiful world we inhabit is beset by metaphorical fire, i.e., violence, injustice, oppression, and hatred. This parable might best be understood as a call-to-action, challenging the Jewish people to “not sit idly by” while the flames burn. Instead, we are called to partner with God and play an active role in putting out the flames of injustice – and in improving the world – to the best of our ability.

This same call-to-action lies at the heart of our school’s educational philosophy and something we call the “de Toledo Difference.” Every day, we challenge and inspire our students to become A+ human beings who become active partners in building our community’s culture of kindness. And every day, we are teaching our students how to become proactive and courageous Jewish leaders who aren’t afraid to take a stand, do what is right, and MAKE A DIFFERENCE in the world around us.