Rabbi Gershon Avtzon writes: Since I was a child, I have had a fascination with Pirkei Avos. The clear, holy and ethical directives of our holy Tannaim spoke to my heart… When encouraged to learn Mishnayos by heart, my parents started with the Masechta of Avos. I looked forward to the spring and summer months in which we learn a perek of Pirkei Avos each week • Full Article

Rabbi Gershon Avtzon writes: It is no secret that educational institutions and Chabad Houses need money to operate, function and grow. While the primary purpose of the institution is to cater to the spiritual needs and their students or congregation, it would not be possible without the special partner and funders giving their support. That is why so much time, effort, and energy is put into fundraising strategies and events that cultivate donors and grow the relationship between the institution and the donor • Full Article

Op-ed by rabbi Gershon Avtzon: This shabbas, Bamidbar 5785, is the Shabbas before the Yom Tov of Shavuos, when we celebrate the receiving of the Torah. The custom between Chassidim is to wish each other that we should accept the Torah with Simcha and “Pnimius” (it should affect us in a real and internal way). This would be an appropriate time to talk about an important topic in education: The importance of having joy and excellence in a part of learning and Yiddishkeit • Full Article

Rabbi Gershon Avtzon writes: It is at this time of the year that schools begin in earnest to focus on the upcoming year and to make sure that they have the right staff in place for the various classes and grades. This being the case, it is important to discuss the various components of a successful teacher and thus to know what to look for when hiring for the upcoming year. There are three main components of a successful teacher • Full Article

Rabbi Gershon Avtzon writes: Today (17 Iyar 5785), marks the second Yahrtzeit of my dear Rosh Yeshiva and personal Mashpia: Harav Michoel Akiva Gershon Wagner A”H. While much has been written, and will be written, about his unique personality, talents and method of learning and teaching – I would like to focus on (in a way of V’hachai Yitten El Libo) one particular innovation and passion of his: His connection to all his alumni • Full Article