Happy birthday Mr Kleinlehrer
Sydney’s Emanuel School benefactor, Aron Kleinlehrer, turned 90 yesterday and was treated to a birthday surprise from pupils and teachers at the school.
A Shehecheyonu for Aron Kleinlehrer
Aron Kleinlehrer with Ann Hastings and pupils pic: Henry Benjamin
Aron Kleinlehrer, is an Emanuel School Founding Member, Life Governor and generous Benefactor. He celebrated his 90th Birthday with a morning of song at the School. The School’s Senior Girls’ Chamber Choir sang to Kleinlehrer and guests but the Year 2s were not to be outshone and sang a stirring Happy Birthday in both English and Hebrew. The students followed their singing with a touching moment under the tallit where they recited the Shehecheyanu blessing which is traditionally said when one reaches a new season.
Aron Kleinlehrer began his association with the School many decades ago when he had a dream to help create a School that would help cement children’s Jewish identity in a warm, inclusive and supportive environment.
When the School was purchased from the Sisters of the Poor, Mr Kleinlehrer helped to physically transform the PAC from a Chapel to a functional Performing Arts Centre The space was officially named The Aron Kleinlehrer Performing Arts Centre (or affectionately the “PAC”) in 1985.
Aron Kleinlehrer is dedicated to sharing his experiences of World War II and the Shoah. The Kleinlehrer Historical Centre, which was opened in 2011, houses many precious items from the Holocaust.
In 2011 the Kleinlehrer Family Science Building was opened, providing studentswith a purpose-built science facility.
In celebrating Mr Kleinlehrer’s Birthday we are also celebrating a man whose vision and love for our School has helped shape it into the success it has become.
Principal Ann Hastings joined staff and pupils from Year 2 to listen to songs from the senior choir.
