Israel

Israel

We take pride in leading the community in speaking out for the right of Israel to live in peace and security as a democratic Jewish state.

CSZ Israel Trip December 2022

Led by Rebecca and Rabbi Aaron Starr, we will travel through Israel in two busses: one geared toward first-time travelers, including and especially children and their parents and grandparents, and a second bus geared toward those who are looking for an Israel experience less focused on the major sites and more focused on unique, innovative and off-the-beaten-path tastes, sights, and sounds.

Information sessions and itineraries are underway, and we invite you to join us! Contact Rabbi Aaron Starr for information.

AIPAC

To that end, our synagogue community supports Israel through our ongoing connection and participation with AIPAC. All our members are welcome to join our large cohort group, accompanied by our clergy, that regularly attends the annual AIPAC conference in Washington D.C.

For more information about AIPAC, click here.

Israel Connections

We host scholars in residence from Israel to speak on a variety of topics of interest, with opportunities for discussion, prayer and socializing.

Our clergy have participated in the Shalom Hartman Institute, based in Israel, which provides leadership training, while offering a pluralistic educational opportunity.

Support Israel as a Community

  • Support our Israeli brother and sister soldiers through involvement or donations to FIDF (Friends of Israeli Defense Forces).
  • Visit Israel with family, friends or with a group.  Congregation Shaarey Zedek hosts regular family and teen missions.
  • Support Jewish National Fund
  • Buy Israel Bonds

 

 

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.