Rabbi Sharir Yablonsky, RTMA Middle School associate principal, is renowned for his expertise and innovative programming in the areas of time management and pedagogy. This is especially noticed just ahead of exams. With winter break on the horizon, Rabbi Yablonsky took extra care to ensure a study schedule that would meet the needs of his students and ensure their preparation for the material to be tested during midterms. He also took into account the particular age and social-emotional characteristics typical of middle school age boys.

Prior to each exam, he provided a one hour open study session, during which he and his faculty circulated the room to allow for questions and assistance. The boys took advantage of the time; some worked with chevrutahs while others preferred to review on their own. When the hour was up, he insisted that all of the boys take a break for a snack or the washroom and walk around a little bit. After hearing his words of encouragement and expressions of confidence in their abilities, the boys walked into their exams fresh, calm and confident.