Though years have passed since the Samchek siblings walked the halls of the Calgary Jewish Academy, both remain grateful for the foundation their nine-plus years at CJA provided. Since graduating from Grade 9 as part of CJA’s Classes of 2017 and 2023, Moriah and David have taken very different paths.
The beauty of learning is vast and complex, and Larry Katz, a CHS Class of 1965 Grade 6 and Class of 1971 Grade 12 alumnus and second-generation member of the school community (his mother was also a student), understands this well. He and his wife, Deborah, still live in Calgary and remain closely connected to the CJA community.
It is not often that one finds such kindness and grace amidst hardship, yet Annabelle Bondar, a CJA 1962 Grade 6 alumna, shows that community is key to perseverance. Annabelle is now 25 years cancer-free and continues to be a part of the Jewish community in Calgary.
The pressure to be an advocate for your community can be overwhelming, but Josh Heuberger, a CJA 2020 Grade 9 alumnus, is more than willing to step up to the challenge. Josh is driven to bring about change as a principled leader who defends Jewish values.
All legacies start somewhere, and for Jordan Balaban, a Grade 9 graduate from CJA’s Class of 2000, his began before he was born and will likely continue for generations to come. Today, Jordan serves as the CEO of the CJA, giving back to the school and community that helped shape him.
It’s rare to turn a childhood dream into reality. However, for Reva Faber, an I.L. Peretz Grade 5 student in 1956, the dream of becoming a teacher became the foundation of her life. As an educator for the past 50 years, Reva has taught a great deal and learned even more.
We are seeking passionate, dedicated educators to join our professional team. Successful candidates will be committed to delivering high-quality instruction that meets the diverse needs of students and supports their academic and personal growth. This role requires strong pedagogical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to creating a supportive, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment.
Kinsley Stella, a CJA Grade 9 alumna, may not have been born on the stage, but she would do anything to stay there. Although Kinsley is a recent CJA graduate from 2025, she proves that incredible achievements are possible at any age.
For some, the call to help others is second nature, yet for Mark Joffe, a CHS Grade 12 alumnus from 1975, it's how he walks through every step of his life. His memories of the school remain fond, and the relationships he’s made in the community are even stronger.