RASPEDS Celebrates the Graduation of the Class of 2022

The Rabbi Arthur Schneier Park East Day School graduating class of 2022 celebrated their commencement with a ceremony in the main sanctuary at Park East Synagogue on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, alongside their teachers, administrators, family and friends. 

RASPEDS Graduates 2022
RASPEDS eighth graders enter the main sanctuary at Park East Synagogue for their graduation.

In her introductory remarks, Principal Debbie Rochlin honored the graduates’ resilience and encouraged them to live their lives to the fullest, accomplish their dreams and become vibrant and contributing members of their communities. “I look upon you as the future leaders of our people because you gained so much foundation here, inspired by your rabbis and teachers, and you felt at home — a family,” remarked Rabbi Arthur Schneier in his keynote address. 

Rabbi Arthur Schneier
Rabbi Arthur Schneier addresses the RASPEDS class of 2022 at Park East Synagogue.

Alumnus Jared Pochtar emphasized how the graduates are uniquely positioned to lead the next generation of Jews and the challenges they will face. “One of the changes we’ll continue to see in your lifetimes is the increasing number of different diasporas around the world… We, as leaders of the Jewish community, can be a light onto the rest of the world because we, as the oldest living diaspora on earth, know what that’s like — to lead a community that transcends nations.” 

Jared Pochtar
RASPEDS alumnus Jared Pochtar addresses the graduating class of 2022.

Valedictorian Olivia Saar encouraged her fellow graduates to create the world that they want to live in. The class of 2022’s high school destinations include Columbia Preparatory School, the Frisch School, Marsha Stern Talmudical Academy (Yeshiva University High School for Boys), the Ramaz School and SAR High School. 

Olivia Saar
Olivia Saar, Valedictorian of the RASPEDS class of 2022, addresses her fellow graduates.

After receiving their diplomas and awards, Graduates Noa Sofer and Isaac Cohen honored Ms. Tariff with the dedication of the yearbook: “You are a teacher first, but it feels more like family … we know, with the knowledge and guidance you have given us, our class will reach higher heights than ever imagined.” In turn, Ms. Taroff thanked her students for the memories they made together: “I am very proud of you and I have believed in you since day one of being your teacher. And I will always be rooting for you.”

Following the program, the graduates celebrated with their families at a special reception in the Brooks Ballroom. 

Watch the full program: