Temple Micah's Web site is a technological marvel, connecting members in all sorts of ways. And now it has a new trick -- creating a communication bridge between teachers and parents.

Each Religious School and Midweek class has its own folder, which will allow teachers to write a description of what's happening in class every month. They'll give parents a sense of what material has been covered and what's coming up next.

In addition, there will be a link that will permit parents to e-mail teachers with questions or concerns. This is not meant to take the place of regular, face-to-face conversations between parents and teachers, but it does provide another way for parents to know what's happening in our classrooms.

Speaking of teachers, we've got a number of new faces on the staff. They come from all walks of life and many are new to the Washington area. I'd like to ask the entire community to make our teachers, new and not, to feel celebrated and welcomed at Temple Micah. Seek them out, encourage them to explore all the congregation has to offer and invite them to join you in your homes for holiday meals and celebrations.

At our first staff meeting, I told the teachers that we want Temple Micah to be the place where they not only come to work, but where they come for their own Jewish experiences. Help me make that statement come to life. All of us will be enriched.

Finally, I want to invite the entire community to attend our Simchat Torah Service at 7 p.m., Monday, Oct. 24. This service marks the moment each year when we reach the end of the Torah and roll the scroll back to the beginning. It's always a festive celebration, but this year it will be even more special because we will hold our Religious School Consecration ceremony during the service.

All students in their first year of Religious School will be recognized as they take their first steps on what will be a lifelong journey of Jewish education. Consecration students will receive invitations in early October. Please email me with questions.