Rashi School alum Mayta Cohhen (’15) and her award-winning a cappella group, BerKalit, performed classic Jewish songs in the last Kabbalat Shabbat before the Thanksgiving break. Students, staff members and families came together to welcome in the Sabbath and even had the opportunity to participate in a sing-along with these accomplished vocalists.

“We were thrilled to have Mayta visit and lead the performance with her talented BerKalit group,” said Rashi School director of enrollment management Danielle Rettinger. “Mayta is a perfect example of a Rashi graduate who practices the school’s mantra, showing how a life-changing education can result in a world-changing student.”

Based in Boston, BerKalit is Berklee College of Music’s first Jewish a cappella group. Founded and directed by Mayta in 2022, members represent several religions; all share a love for singing Jewish music and the desire to foster community through vocal harmony.

“It meant so much to show my members where I come from—the place that inspired me to become a Jewish leader myself,” explained Mayta. “Rashi gave me countless opportunities through group projects, musical theater and student council.”

Added Cohen, “Throughout my time at Rashi, my teachers and my peers supported me in my musicianship and leadership, and I left feeling confident that I could bring my creative visions to life. Now I do that every single day, and I know that is in large part thanks to those formative moments at Rashi.”

Rashi alumni frequently visit the school to meet with students. They share  their lives after Rashi, the career paths they have pursued and their continued commitment to social justice. Added Rettinger, “We are thankful for Rashi’s fabulous kehillah (community), including the hundreds of alumni currently making a difference in the Jewish world.”

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