You are cordially invited to attend
Jewish Day School of the Lehigh Valley’s

71st Annual Gala: Stories Through the Ages
Saturday, December 7th, 2024 at 7:30pm
at Temple Beth El

Cocktail attire preferred.

An unforgettable evening of

storytelling

through the ages

As guests gather, the atmosphere will be filled with the warmth of connection. Alumni, current families, and supporters of the school will come together, sharing stories that span decades—tales of tradition, learning, and the profound impact of Jewish education. From cherished memories of the school’s earliest days to the promise of its future, these stories will remind everyone of the enduring mission that has guided the school for over 70 years.

This gala will be more than just an evening of celebration—it will be a tribute to the stories that bind us, the traditions that guide us, and the people who make this legacy endure.

At the heart of this celebration, we are deeply honored to pay special tribute to Mr. Brian Goldman, our beloved retired Middle School English teacher, whose career at the Jewish Day School spanned over 10 years. Known for his passion, warmth, and unwavering dedication to his students, Mr. Goldman not only taught the art of writing and literature but also inspired countless students to find their own voices, craft their own narratives, and appreciate the power of words.

Throughout the evening, we will hear stories from former students and colleagues whose lives were touched by Mr. Goldman’s influence. His classroom was a place where stories came alive—where Shakespeare was debated with energy, where essays transformed into personal reflections, and where each student’s perspective was valued. Generations of students fondly recall his engaging lessons, his thoughtful guidance, and the encouragement he offered to every aspiring writer who entered his room.

The Gala will feature heartfelt tributes to Mr. Goldman’s lasting impact, including a video presentation capturing memories from his years at the school, along with personal reflections shared by students who credit him with shaping their love for language and learning. His commitment to Jewish education and to fostering a sense of curiosity, empathy, and critical thinking in his students has left an indelible mark on our community.

As we honor Mr. Goldman, we also celebrate the values he embodied—those of tradition, scholarship, and connection. His legacy is woven into the fabric of the Jewish Day School, and it continues to inspire the teachers, students, and families who carry on the mission of the school.

The night will be a fitting tribute to Mr. Goldman, filled with storytelling, much like the lessons he instilled in his students. Together, we will celebrate his contributions, his dedication, and the profound influence he has had on the lives of so many. The Gala will serve as a reminder of the stories that shape us and the teachers who help us tell them, and as we look ahead, we honor the legacy of Mr. Goldman, whose story will forever be part of the Jewish Day School’s rich history.

This evening promises to be not only a celebration of 71 remarkable years but also a tribute to the educators, like Mr. Brian Goldman, who make this enduring legacy possible.

GALA

FAQS

  • Anyone who purchases a ticket! We welcome the entire community to support the JDS and enjoy an evening of storytelling and tribute.

  • The event will be held at Temple Beth El in Allentown on December 78th, at 7:30pm. The address can be viewed below.

    Temple Beth El is located at  1305 Springhouse Rd, Allentown, PA 18104.

  • Cocktail attire is encouraged for this event. 

  • Our night will be filled with great Kosher food and even better company.

    Spend a night hearing the cherished memories and stories of our community heard and felt throughout our JDS families and loved ones, from past students, staff, and families both current and who have seen the school grow in those first few years.  

  • Item description
  • Yes! Kosher wine and beer will be available during cocktail hour followed by a gourmet buffet style Kosher dinner innovatively designed and carefully prepared by Prestige Caterers. 


  • “Ads” can be purchased at an additional cost (donation), in combination with your Gala ticket. Varying “ad” sizes can be selected (seen here) and will be seen in our program booklet distributed to each guest the night of the Gala. Your ad can include a personal message or even logo of your business. 

  • Absolutely! Our school is so thankful for all of the love and support to make it possible to continue leaving our legacy seen within our student’s success. Please visit give butter link to add your donation. 

  • Please contact celebration@jdslv.org and we’d be happy to answer them for you!