Parshat

What’s Your Chanukah Story? Chanukah through the Ages

Posted on December 23, 2024

Discover the diverse narratives of Chanukah celebrations across different eras in this thought-provoking sermon. Explore how the festival has been observed throughout history and consider your own personal connection to its timeless themes.

Parshat Vayishlach: The Blessing of Choosing to Wrestle

Posted on December 16, 2024

Engage with the profound lessons from Parshat Vayishlach in this insightful sermon. Learn about the transformative power of struggle and the blessings that emerge from confronting challenges, inspired by Jacob’s wrestling with the divine.

Parashat Vayeitze: You’re In My Seat

Posted on December 13, 2024

Reflect on themes of belonging and personal space in this intriguing sermon based on Parashat Vayeitze. Delve into the significance of place and position within communal and spiritual contexts, and what it means to find one’s own seat in the journey of faith.

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.