Pre-Holiday Learning Opportunities Join us for a Women-Led Morning Minyan Rosh Chodesh Elul Sunday, August 24 at 8:30 a.m. Together we’ll welcome this new month of reflection and renewal, opening our hearts as we begin the journey toward the High Holidays. All are invited to share in this uplifting start to the season. Rosh Chodesh Elul Through music and reflection, Hazzan David Propis guides us in preparing spiritually for the Days of Awe. Discover the power of forgiveness—toward others and ourselves—as we move into the High Holiday season with clarity and compassion. Power of FOrgiveness Grab your tropical prints and Jimmy Buffett-style gear for a festive, tropical vibe! As summer comes to a close, let’s enjoy one more family friendly BBQ with chicken and burgers under the Saulson Pavilion tent with our CSZ community. Shabbat on Bell Road A Special Coffee House evening featuring Nicely Theatre Group performing songs from their upcoming production of Fiddler on the Roof and more! Hear from David Carroll, Founder and Mitch Master, Creative Director on how the theater company was founded and how it has evolved over the years. Coffee House with Nicely Theater Join Rabbi Aaron Starr for this month’s Wisdom & Coffee as we explore the countercultural yet deeply Jewish concept of self-accountability. Before blaming others, Judaism urges us to look inward—a timely practice as the High Holidays approach. Enjoy stimulating conversation, Chazzano coffee and breakfast sweets. Wisdom & Coffee Am I truly ready for the Days of Awe? Please join us for an evening of learning, music, and reflection as we direct our intentions toward the holiest days of the Jewish year. Preparing Our Souls for the Days of Awe: Selichot It is a custom to visit the graves of loved ones before Rosh Hashanah. Clover Hill Park Cemetery hosts a brief but moving memorial service Sunday, September 14 at 11 a.m. conducted by the CSZ clergy, followed by an opportunity to access the grounds. Time of Remembrance To Register for these and other events, please visit csz.app/Events or scan the QR Code below PLease Register

Curriculum

Our curriculum is written for our school by our Rabbis and Director of Youth and Family Learning. Each grade level has specific goals and learning targets that encompass the following areas:  

Learning and practicing Jewish rituals, holidays, and ethical actions, emphasizing how these observances connect individuals to Jewish tradition and community. 

Fostering a connection to Israel by exploring its geography, history, and significance as the Jewish homeland. 

Centering on learning and understanding Torah stories, characters, and teachings, and applying their lessons to daily life. 

Emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior, acts of kindness (Gemilut Chasadim), and fulfilling obligations like Tzedakah (charity). 

Exploring the meaning and practice of prayer, teaching students how to communicate with God and understand the significance of different prayers. 

Focusing on learning the Hebrew alphabet, vocabulary, and basic reading skills to engage with Jewish texts and prayers. 

Each grade level explores these themes through engaging and age-appropriate lessons. Teachers use a variety of teaching methods and resources, including the Chai Curriculum. 

Staff

We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of professional Jewish educators. Our teachers receive weekly planning time, during which they use our curriculum and learning goals to craft engaging lesson plans. They benefit from regular coaching and feedback from our Director of Youth and Family Learning and participate in ongoing professional development throughout the year. Our educators are passionate about their students and committed to their growth and success.

Family Programs

Throughout the year, we invite families to celebrate with us! Parents, grandparents, and siblings are welcome to join us for special Religious School mornings filled with music, food, and community celebration as we observe holidays such as Sukkot, Tu B’Shevat, and Passover as a school community. Families and students are also encouraged to attend our weekly Shabbat services, where we offer youth activities for children of all ages. Participating in Shabbat helps our students connect their learning and apply it in a congregational setting, fostering a deeper connection to our synagogue community.