TDSA's fourth grade boys have immersed themselves in honing writing skills and their understanding of the American justice system. General studies teacher Mrs. Harriet Cortell encourages students to write persuasive letters about local issues, with a larger focus on redeeming a captive, pidyon shevuyim, a Torah commandment. After studying the issues of an upcoming appeal of his case by the Jonathan Pollard, and how it differed from other espionage cases, each wrote a personal letter of encouragement to Mr. Pollard. They also wrote letters on his behalf to Georgia's Senators Saxby Chambliss and Zell Miller, Congressman John Lewis, and U.S. District Court Judge Hogan.

The letters had an impact beyond what they expected. Congressman Lewis responded, expressing his concern with the case. A full-page article about Pollard in the newsweekly Hamodia featured several of the boys' letters. Through Pollard's American spokesman, they learned that their concern is appreciated and that Pollard has not given up hope. Meanwhile, the students are more aware than ever of the impact each of them can have on the well being of others and of the role of every Jew in the larger community.

Torah Day School of Atlanta is one of Federation's local beneficiary agencies, and received an allocation of $356,868 in FY04.