The RTMA graduating class of 5777/2017 was an exceptional grade that embodied the division’s slogan “above the code.” The young men demonstrated, over the course of their collective high school career, what it means to lead by example, always striving for more and better, and always doing so passionately and reflectively, through the prism of Torah.

HaRav Elazar Mayer Teitz, dean of the Jewish Educational Center, often quips that high school is really a five year commitment, as a minimum of one year of post-RTMA learning in a yeshiva in Israel is highly encouraged. This year’s graduating class will fulfill that commitment and will be attending the following renowned yeshivot in Israel: Reishit, Derech, Eretz Hatzvi, Yishrei Lev, Gush, Ashreinu and Mevaseret.

With a comprehensive college guidance program in place, RTMA graduates have also secured impressive college acceptances, including early action and early decision, as well as honors merit awards at: CUNY- Baruch College, Brooklyn College, College of Staten Island, Queens College; Cornell; Kean University; Long Island University; Rutgers University—Business School, School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences; Touro Lander College for Men; and Yeshiva University.

A special mazel tov to Shea Kimmel of Staten Island, RTMA’s valedictorian, Gabriel Altaras of Passaic and Dov Frommer of Livingston, co-salutatorians.

Although the young men will be missed as students of the high school, RTMA Principal Rabbi Ami Neuman will visit with them in Israel next winter, and the JEC’s robust alumni network is sure to embrace them with open arms. The graduates’ continued success and future achievements will undoubtedly continue to be “above the code” and the school wishes them every success as they move forward toward the next exciting chapter in their lives.